AULANDER – This summer, from June 20 through July 29, the Place of Possibilities located at 1144 Hexlena Road in Aulander hosted a literacy camp called “A Summer to Shine.”

Monday through Friday more than 50 children, ages 4-12 years, spent their days engaged in story-telling, reading, sewing, music, art, recreation and much more.

The participants enjoyed eating breakfast and lunch together with their friends. All of the meals were provided by Bertie County Schools. They even provided bag lunches for field trips to the water park in Kinston, Livermon Park & Mini Zoo in Windsor, Pizza Inn in Washington and the Edenton National Fish Hatchery.

During recreation time, the students were able to go outside, or when it was too hot, they played kick ball, dodge ball or Just Dance & Zumba with the X-Box inside the full size gymnasium. Shooting hoops was another favorite activity.

With the exception of the three lead teachers, all of the staff who served over this six-week period were volunteers, including middle and high school youth. The students and adults who were diligent and persevered by faithfully serving every day during the camp will be rewarded with a lovely weekend trip, provided by a generous sponsor, at the end of August. The destination is still being kept a secret by Rev. Dr. Laura Early so that she can surprise her dedicated volunteers.

A Summer to Shine literacy camp was made possible by a generous donation from Goodwill Community Foundation. Goodwill Community Foundation (GCF®) continues to be a leader in an era of change by providing the training required for the emerging world where technology is integrated into everyday life. The mission of GCF® is to create and provide education, employment and life enrichment opportunities regionally, nationally and internationally for people who desire to improve the quality of their lives.

All GCF programs are funded from the value of salable clothing and household items donated at the 39 GCF donation centers located throughout eastern North Carolina. GCF employs more than 400 people who earn an average of $20 per hour with benefits at these stores.

For more information about GCF and how it supports students, families and the people of eastern North Carolina, visit www.GCFGlobal.org or call 919-941-9600.

If you would like to have more information about other activities held at the Place of Possibilities, such as its After School Family Program That begins Sept. 12 for students in Kindergarten through 5th grade, call 252-345-1144.