As a kid, nothing was more exciting than hearing the last school bell ring on the final day of classes. It meant one thing: summer was finally here. As each school year closes, children throughout New Jersey eagerly transition from the confines of classrooms to the excitement of summer camps and programs. However, not every child has the opportunity to join organized summer programs due to high costs or a lack of available options. Consequently, many children find themselves at home without adult supervision for the majority of the summer while their parents or guardians work during the day. Without adequate adult supervision, summer can be a time of uncertainty and limited opportunities for children. Regrettably, these circumstances increase the likelihood of them engaging in troublesome behaviors and experiencing delays in social and emotional development, which can lead to various health and safety concerns.

This underscores the importance of providing children with access to free or affordable summer programs. Summer programs not only decrease the likelihood of problematic behaviors in children, but also enhance both their physical and mental well-being, foster socio-emotional growth, and build character. While there are many organizations in New Jersey offering free or low-cost summer programs, these organizations are often understaffed and lack adequate funding, posing challenges in delivering the quintessential summer experience for children.

For more than four decades, the Educational Arts Team, a nonprofit organization dedicated to offering art-based programming for children in Jersey City, has been the proud host of an annual summer camp known as “Camp Liberty.” Due to its limited budget and staff, Camp Liberty faces challenges in maintaining the expansive 5-acre grounds it occupies within Liberty State Park. Every year, Jersey Cares leads multiple volunteer groups to lend a hand in maintaining and revitalizing Camp Liberty ahead of the summer camp season. Dedicated volunteer groups undertake a multitude of tasks, including trimming overgrown foliage, refurbishing weathered benches and picnic tables, applying fresh coats of paint to the walls, assembling new outdoor furniture, and so much more, ensuring the camp is primed for an exceptional summer experience.

“Jersey Cares has always supported the programs we offer to the children and families of Jersey City,” said Dom Buccafusco, Director of Art Based Community Programs at Educational Arts Team. “They have a tremendous impact on the success of Camp Liberty. Our staff appreciate their efforts, and the children benefit from their kindness and willingness to help make their experience safe, cooperative, and fun.”

Jersey Cares provides similar support to the Arc of Somerset, an organization serving individuals with developmental disabilities and their families in Somerset County. The Arc of Somerset hosts an annual summer camp for children and adults with developmental disabilities called “Camp Jotoni”. Faced with financial constraints and limited manpower to undertake special projects, the Arc of Somerset sought assistance from Jersey Cares to breathe new life into Camp Jotoni’s facilities. Over the past two years, Jersey Cares volunteers have transformed the camp. Fresh furniture and vibrant murals were installed in the art room, new benches and picnic tables were assembled, the walking trails and fire pit rejuvenated, among many other enhancements.

“I love it when Jersey Cares comes,” said Sandee Miller, the Associate Executive Director of the Arc of Somerset. “they bring tools, supplies, paint and completely transform the camp. I hope each volunteer knows how much this means to the campers.”

Beyond physical transformations, Jersey Cares plays a direct role in bolstering the summer programs offered by partner organizations through a myriad of engaging workshops and activities. Working alongside the likes of Camp Liberty, Boys & Girls Clubs, and other youth-based organizations, volunteer groups from Jersey Cares frequently host a range of dynamic activities for children during the summer, encompassing everything from arts & crafts sessions, trivia games, and relay races to enlightening educational workshops covering subjects such as financial literacy and STEM.

As we reflect on the vital role of summer programs play in shaping the lives of children across New Jersey, it’s evident that access to enriching activities during summertime is crucial. With many youngsters left without structured opportunities, the risk of adverse outcomes looms large. Yet, the solution lies within our collective action. By supporting organizations like the Educational Arts Team, the Arc of Somerset, and Boys & Girls Clubs, and by volunteering with Jersey Cares, we can ensure that every child has the chance to thrive during the summer months.