Ty takes the plunge
Recently, Camp Spring Creek said goodbye to Tyion, who has spent three summers with us. Ty came to us through our partnership with OpenDoors of Asheville, an organization that connects local children who have financial need with an active, individualized network of support, including tutoring and enrichment opportunities such as attending Camp Spring Creek. Ty is now age 15 and enrolled in Odyssey Community School in Asheville. We sat down to talk to him about his experiences here.
Think back to your first time arriving here. What was it like for you?
I didn’t want to be here. I was homesick. It was probably the third day when things changed.
What turned things around for you?
I realized that there were a lot of people here who believed in me and were striving to help me do what I wanted to do.
What kind of changes can you see in yourself as a result of camp?
I’m not afraid to read aloud in class or read in front the class anymore. I believe in myself a lot more.
What kind of books do you like to read?
I like history books. For example, Elijah of Buxton by Christopher Paul Curtis. That’s probably my favorite book.
How do you feel about being done with camp?
Kind of sad, but excited.
What is your biggest takeaway from camp?
I feel like I can do whatever I put my mind to. I’m more comfortable being in the real world. I’ve come along way.
What are your plans for the future?
I play football for the Asheville Saints (a team that gives homeschooled kids and kids from private schools the opportunity to play middle and high school football). My dream is to play for the NFL, but I’m also interested in sports medicine.
"Campers like Ty are the reason we get so much satisfaction out of what we do," says Susie. "We love to empower children to be the best they can be. The road is often rocky, but it gets smoother the longer you stay with it. Ty will have to overcome many more hurdles in his life, but I believe he has a stronger personal conviction now and will tackle and conquer many obstacles. We are so proud of him and his many accomplishments. We miss Ty here at Camp Spring Creek, wish him the best and hope he will stay in touch!
Ty with counselor, Conor
Ty with family friend Denise and mom Sheila