SkillsUSA Serves

Last weekend, members of the Lawrence County CTC Chapter of SkillsUSA traveled to YMCA Camp Kon-O-Kwee Spencer in Fombell to complete a service project. It was a lot of work, but in all honesty — the students had a LOT of fun, too!

After a delicious breakfast of bacon, sausage, eggs, fruit, and just about every other yummy breakfast food you could think of, their task was this: to build a few fire pits and to sand and stain cabin furniture. Much to everyone’s surprise, the LCCTC SkillsUSA students were able to complete a total of four firepits (including one tear-down and rebuild), and sand and stain furniture for three different lodges!

“I never knew that sanding, staining, and building fire pits would be so much fun,” smiles SkillsUSA member, Lucy Allen. “ . . . but don’t tell my parents. Next thing you know, I’ll end up doing these things for them — and of course I would,” she giggles.

Maintenance supervisor, Tim Shank states, “Had we had to tackle these jobs ourselves, it would have taken us weeks, but because of the work the kids did today, they have saved us so much time.”

Each year, YMCA Camp Spencer serves special needs individuals, regardless of intellectual or physical ability. They are able to enjoy a full camp experience while learning and developing important values, social skills, and life skills. Campers have the opportunity to enjoy all of the activities and programs including canoeing, swimming, fishing, overnight campouts, bonfires, and much more. They can have fun, make memories, develop friendships, and become part of a community that’s understanding and supportive.

These jobs took place on the Spencer side and, according to John Coombs, Program Safety Director, “These fire pits and furniture will be enjoyed by thousands who come to enjoy their time at camp.”

Our LCCTC SkillsUSA students’ work this past weekend will help ensure that the campers are able to have a truly wonderful experience when they camp at Spencer. “This camp is only six miles from my house, so it may be a great place to return and give them a hand someday,” says SkillsUSA member Hunter Biddle. “It felt good being able to help the camp — especially knowing that it would help those with special needs!”

“We’d love to have them return! There’s always something to be done, and they have really made a good impression on all of us here at the camp,” states Maintenance Supervisor Jim Surrena.

Mrs. Christina Weisenstein, SkillsUSA Advisor and math teacher at LCCTC has seen, first-hand the disappointment for students that have come with cancellations activities and postponed events for SkillsUSA and so many other organizations. “Historically, our SkillsUSA members work so hard, no matter the task, be it competing in their shop or in a leadership event or through service work. Now that we are permitted to resume our activities, I was hoping that the same SkillsUSA determination would return. Seeing the kids work so hard at the camp restores my faith in the future of our youth — especially in our SkillsUSA members — and in their willingness to meet any challenge placed before them.”

To the staff at YMCA Camp Kon-O-Kwee: Thank you for your hospitality! Our LCCTC SkillsUSA members had a lot of fun helping you help others, and we hope to take you up on your offer to return — SOON!