BY ROSEMARY CORCORAN
PALS Volunteer Associate
Ahh, spring. While the weather outside was warming up and flowers were beginning to bud, PALS was also warming up for our summer season with four weeks of Spring Programming!
From February through April, PALS brought together participants from across the United States in a brand new format: week-long virtual and hybrid sessions. We played minute to win it Olympic games, came together as a team for Family Feud, challenged our creative skills with Charades, and of course had some rockin’ karaoke sessions together.
“I loved the opportunity to see so many people from across the country that we may not have had the opportunity to see at an in person camp. Everyone was engaged and genuinely excited to see each other.”
- PALS Volunteer
“Getting to experience PALS magic while it’s cold outside!!! I missed it!!!”
- PALS Camper
What did spring programming look like?
Spring programming sessions took place over the course of a week, just like Summer camp. However, these programs were meant to fit in with school and work! Participants logged onto Zoom for a few hours in the afternoon on two Saturday sessions, and then each night for one hour to spend time with their 1-1 paired partner and their team through fun PALS staples. Our hybrid session included in-person activities on Saturdays, making a “sandwich” with the virtual events!
Each night looked a little different, with new leaders and activities. We sang karaoke, played Family Feud and jazzercised, took some time to relax and do yoga together, made some crafts, reflected on the time spent as a team, and wrapped things up with Olympic games! What stayed the same each night? Connecting with pairs and teams! We were able to build friendships over the course of the week, and log off every night saying, “See you tomorrow!” Spring programming at PALS gave everyone the opportunity to take the PALS magic with them from anywhere in the country.
“My favorite part about PALS spring was that I could look forward to it after a normal day at school or home. After every call, I thought, "I can't wait until tomorrow's call!"
– PALS Volunteer
“I liked that it was at the end of the day because it was something fun to look forward to”
– PALS Camper
Who was there?
This spring, PALS welcomed 373 participants from across the United States into our virtual and hybrid program sessions. 129 of these participants were new to the PALS family! Spring programs served as the perfect way to get a glimpse into PALS for new volunteers and families...many of whom are joining us in-person this summer!
A new PALS camper reflected on their experience, “[I liked] Making friends and having Emma as my partner.”
When asked about their favorite part of spring programming, a new PALS volunteer said, “This was my first time at PALS, and I enjoyed every second! I loved all the activities. I especially loved karaoke night and dancing with my team. My other favorite night was reflection night because we got to be more personal and our discussions were really meaningful. Overall, I learned so much from PALS about acceptance, joy, and love. I hope to partake in another camp soon!”
What’s next?
PALS volunteer directors and staff team are working hard to bring the PALS community together once again this summer with weekend-long in-person programs and a virtual week-long program. With over 600 applicants already, the PALS family is ready to come together again this year for the PALS magic. Spring programs were a great way to connect with each other and remind us of the value in human connection, friendship, and inclusivity for all people at a time we needed it the most.