Day of Inspiration
Some days at Camp Chen-A-Wanda are about the laughter. Some days are about the competition. And then there are days like today, days that reach a little deeper into our hearts. Today, Girls Side had the privilege of experiencing The Emmie Effect, and it was nothing short of extraordinary. From the very first session, there was a feeling that something meaningful was happening. The focus wasn’t on winning or performing. It was on becoming the very best version of ourselves. Through honest conversations, thoughtful activities, and moments of quiet reflection, our girls explored what it means to lead with kindness, compassion, empathy, respect, and courage. By the end of the day, Girls Side was simply floating on everything good.
Friendships grew stronger. Conversations became more meaningful. Smiles came a little easier. Our girls walked away feeling inspired, not only to be better friends to one another, but to be kinder to themselves.
One of the most powerful moments of the day came during a simple exercise. Each girl was asked to stand proudly and say three things she loved about herself. Without hesitation, voices filled the room.
“I’m brave.” “I’m kind.” “I’m funny.” “I’m loyal.” “I’m talented.” “I’m athletic.” “I’m fair.” “I’m happy.” “I’m a good person.”
Listening to these incredible young women confidently speak about their strengths was one of the most beautiful moments we’ve experienced this summer. So often, children are quick to compliment others but hesitate to recognize the wonderful qualities within themselves. Today, they gave themselves permission to do exactly that. Because self-love is where it all begins.
When we recognize our own worth, we become more capable of lifting others up and when we believe in ourselves, kindness becomes natural. Compassion grows. Empathy deepens. Respect becomes effortless. The friendships we build become stronger because they’re rooted in confidence rather than comparison. That was the heart of The Emmie Effect.
Today wasn’t simply about hearing inspiring words. It was about giving our girls the opportunity to think about the kind of friend they want to have…and, even more importantly, the kind of friend they want to be. Today reminded us that the greatest strength we can ever possess is a kind heart.
Thank you, Emmie, for opening our hearts and minds and reminding us that every single one of us matters. Thank you for showing our girls that kindness begins with loving ourselves and that the way we treat others has the power to change lives. Long after the words spoken are forgotten, the feeling you created will remain. Your message of kindness, compassion, empathy, and self-worth left an imprint on all of us, and we are so grateful you shared your heart with our Chenny family.
One of our favorite traditions is recognizing those campers who consistently make Chenny a better place simply by the way they treat others. To be named a Kind Camper is one of the highest honors at camp. It recognizes character over talent, heart over headlines, and reminds us that the greatest leaders are often the kindest people in the room. This week, we are incredibly proud to celebrate the following campers and staff members whose kindness, compassion, and caring hearts have made a difference in the lives of those around them.
This Week’s Kind Campers
Boys Side
- Jaxson Kuropatkin – Boys A
- Jace Weiler – Boys B
- Sam Fox – Boys C
- Ari Locker – Boys G
- James Ackerman – Boys I
- Mateo Kaufman – Boys I
- Max Cohen – Boys K
- Grayson Zweben – Boys L
- Eli Pease – Boys O
- Grey Goldman – Boys P
Girls Side
- Chloe Shulman – Girls C
- Sadie DelCioppo – Girls F
- Savannah Bernstein – Girls G
- Ashley Kier – Girls M
- Audra Konner – Girls O
- Syd Diamond – Bunk Y
- Emme Shulman – Bunk Y
We are so proud of our kind kids here, and we know just how much their kindness matters. It’s Cool To be the Kind Kid!!!