University expands summer health camp for youth

HealthEducation

Jul 1

Calvin University has expanded its popular HEALTH (Health Education and Leadership Training for a Hopeful Future) Summer Camp to include young boys for the first time since its inception. With this addition, the university welcomed 40 boys ages 12-17, alongside more than 100 girls ages 9-15, for three separate camps held between June 17 and 28.

The free HEALTH Summer Camp aims to empower young individuals, primarily from low socioeconomic and diverse racial backgrounds in Grand Rapids, with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead healthy lives.

During the camp, youth engaged in various activities including exercising, using microscopes, making healthy snacks, participating in hands-on health activities, and exploring careers in the medical field.

Dr. Adejoke (Joke) Ayoola, Dean of the School of Health at Calvin University, emphasized the importance of inclusive health education.

"Health is not defined by gender. By introducing Boys' HEALTH Camp, we want to empower all youth, regardless of gender and healthcare access, with the knowledge and skills to prioritize their well-being and explore the vast possibilities within healthcare careers," said Dr. Ayoola.

The original HEALTH Camp in 2016 was initiated at the request of mothers in Grand Rapids who urged Calvin University's nursing faculty to educate their daughters about health. Over the past nine years, the camp has evolved into a significant annual event, expanding its reach and impact.

To learn more about HEALTH Summer Camp at Calvin University, visit https://calvin.edu/offices-services/camps/health/index.html.