A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Camp NexGen™ Volunteers: The Heart and Soul of Our Ghana Experience

Idara Otu
2 min readNov 4, 2024

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Camp NexGen™ Ghana Volunteers

Camp NexGen™ wouldn’t be the same without the dedication and spirit of our on-ground volunteers. Each year, these incredible individuals step up to bring our vision to life, joining our team to not only share their skills but also to immerse themselves in a meaningful experience. From packing 150 camper bags on the eve of camp to running alongside our campers and building with them, our volunteers create unforgettable moments that bring Camp NexGen™ to life in ways we could never do alone.

This year, volunteers represented the diverse communities and skills that Camp NexGen™ celebrates. With volunteers from the United States, Nigeria, and Ghana, our camp became a space for cultural exchange, where campers learned from and connected with adults who shared both similar and unique backgrounds. Volunteers came from STEAM disciplines as varied as Computer Programming, Dentistry, Broadcast Engineering, Genetics, Drone Piloting, Cinematography, Fashion Design, and Construction — each bringing their expertise to enrich the camp experience. Michele Dozier, for example, generously donated 150 dental kits, complete with toothbrushes, toothpaste, and floss. For many campers, this was their first time learning about and using dental floss, a small but meaningful experience.

These volunteers were more than just role models — they were friends. As the days went on, campers grew comfortable enough to challenge the volunteers to friendly shootouts on the basketball court or one-on-one soccer matches. The laughter, friendly competition, and shared goals forged bonds that made the experience truly memorable. Reading the campers’ reflections at the end of camp, many noted it was the best day of their lives — proof of the joy and growth this camp brings.

To our volunteers, thank you for making Camp NexGen™ 2024 a transformative experience. Your dedication and energy have left an indelible mark on every camper, and we look forward to welcoming you back next year to continue building these unforgettable memories.

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Idara Otu
Idara Otu

Written by Idara Otu

Founder & Board Chair — Let Girls Read, Run, Grow

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