In our region alone, there are 1700 Kids at risk. Such children need special assistance and help in order to overcome their disadvantages and to pursue their optimal development. Summer time gives Sunshine Children's Center the opportunity to serve many of these children in the Brovary region. Summer camps provide an opportunity for underprivileged to rest, experience a new environment of encouragement and love, and to learn ways of overcoming their emotional and behavioural challenges.
In order to meet the specific needs of the children, SUNSHINE Children's Center organizes every year a summer camp for 120 children who are at risk. The camp is founded on "Adventure pedagogic" and offers the possibility of active recreation and relaxation. Adventure pedagogic helps children to develop characteristics such as self-initiative, spontaneity and creativity; it builds up self-confidence and self-esteem; and it highlights the importance of decision making and consequences. The child learns to act within a team and to solve diverse problems with others; he or she learns to cope with new situations that arise constantly.
During the camp a team of professionals also diagnose the problems of participants and suggest further solutions. All children are being questioned and their home situation is evaluated. After the camp, a team of SUNSHINE workers together with Social Services help to resolve the crisis situations. This can include family assistance, educational support, financial support, medical help and, in some cases, further placement in foster care or rehabilitation centers.
In cooperation with another NGO we also provide preventive education on AIDS/HIV.
The staff at the camp includes pedagogues, teachers, social workers, sport instructors, adventure instructors, psychologist and pediatrist. The camp takes place in Litotski Village, at the river Lubitsh.
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