Stillman’s Creekwood Village Youth Leadership Development Summer Camp ran from June 14 through July 24. Twenty-eight children participated in this year’s camp.

The camp was structured around three main components. The first component was academic. Students were taught effective study habits and techniques and were offered instruction and advice from mentors. The second component was human growth. This aspect focused on developing and building on a healthy self-concept. The third component was about spiritual growth. It taught children that their choices make a difference in their lives and that spirituality is essential for a healthy and balanced life. Family bonding was also talked about and parents were encouraged to attend some of the learning events with their children. The children are also taught leadership skills through a variety of activities.

Campers were also offered the opportunity to be enriched through a variety of activities, such as swimming lessons and taking special trips. This year’s trip was to Six Flags. Students obtained a chance to go to Six Flags by earning merit points for good behavior and active participation. In the past, the camp has visited Ruby Falls and Lookout Mountain among other places.

 “The thing that I enjoy the most,” said Dr. Eddie B. Thomas, Vice President for Community Outreach at Stillman, “is to get to see the accomplishments for those whom I serve.” Thomas is a Stillman alumnus and has been in education for the past 46 years. “This camp,” continued Thomas, “is a part of Stillman’s mission of service. We have been pleased with the results and so have the principals of the schools that these children attend.” Next year, Thomas hopes to incorporate a job component for students of working age. If implemented, this component will help students obtain a summer job and then teach them about financial responsibility.

The program stems from a partnership between Stillman, HUD and Creekwood Village Apartments. The relationship was cultivated in 1996 with the goal of improving the lives of the residents of West Tuscaloosa, and particularly, residents of Creekwood Village Apartments.

Stillman sponsors several community enrichment programs. Many of the programs are conducted year round. These programs are offered to all participants at no cost. Thomas reported, “Since 1996, over 10,000 residents of Tuscaloosa have been served.”

For more information, interested persons should call Dr. Thomas at 205.366.8848.

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