On Saturday, October 19, 2024, we gathered to officially celebrate the dedication of our youth camp, Camp Parsons. We were joined at the dedication by volunteers, donors, youth campers, Cumberland residents, and Cumberland County Community leaders.
The dedication was to honor the collective effort, passion, and dedication that brought this dream to life. A dream realized through the dedication and passion of the Sharon Parsons Foundation, its board, donors, and especially its many volunteers.
The foundation has worked tirelessly to create a quality permanent youth camp in Cumberland County. Camp Parsons stands as a testament to the Foundation's mission: to provide quality outdoor programs and camping opportunities to youth groups, completely free of charge. Since purchasing the original 22 acres in 2019 and an additional 40 acres in 2024, the foundation has developed this camp without any federal or state funding.
Outdoor activities are crucial for the well-being and development of our youth. According to Harvard Health, time spent outdoors improves children's future health and success. Yet, the average American child spends only 4 to 7 minutes in unstructured outdoor play each day, compared to over 7 hours in front of a screen.
Nature is a powerful teacher. It builds confidence, promotes creativity, teaches responsibility, and stimulates the senses in ways that virtual environments can't. Outdoor play gets kids moving, makes them think, and reduces stress and fatigue. In natural settings, we experience an effortless type of attention known as soft fascination, which brings pleasure instead of fatigue.
This is why the Sharon Parsons Foundation is committed to providing all youth groups access to the outdoors. Your support has helped us achieve many milestones and we look forward to continuing our partnering with you in our future enhancements to the camp.
Camp Parsons is more than a place—it's an opportunity. At Camp Parsons, our youth campers challenge themselves, discover new talents, and build memories and friendships that will last a lifetime.
Please remember, the energy you bring to Camp Parsons will shape the camp's spirit and future. Together, we will create an environment of positivity, resilience, and inspiration. Here's to an unforgettable experience!
Thank you for your support, and here's to an unforgettable journey at Camp Parsons!
