(San Francisco, California) – I have been going to Salesians Boys’ and Girls’ Club, technically speaking, since I was three years old. My brothers both went there until they were 14 and my family has always been connected to the Club. This past summer at Sleepaway Camp was my fourth year and I have loved every single year that I’ve gone. I’ve created stronger friendships with the people from my cabins and from the younger cabins. 

When I talk about the Club to my friends who don’t know much about the organization, I always use one word to sum up my experience: family. The Club is my second home and family. My favorite part about the Club used to be that I could hang out with my friends all the time, but now my views have changed. My favorite part about the Club now is all the togetherness and inclusiveness they have shown me throughout the years. 

Talking about Sleepaway Camp, the food? Honestly, these are some of the most delicious meals I have ever tasted. Having my other family with me 24 hours a day is the best experience ever to me. All the organized sports, skits, arts and crafts really are really amazing. It really shows that these people who volunteer their time at the Club and at Sleepaway seriously care about all of the kids. 

Overall, my experience at the Club and Sleepaway has been unbelievably amazing.