For Caleb, attending Power Up Camp was an opportunity to step outside his comfort zone, build independence, and find a community where he felt like he belonged.

His mom, Melissa, shared that he was initially nervous about attending and needed some encouragement to give camp a try. But after that first day, something changed. Caleb came home excited, ready to go back the next morning, and eager to share everything he had done.

“He found a place where he felt like he belonged,” Melissa recalled.

Throughout camp, Caleb had the opportunity to try new things, connect with other young people, and discover shared interests. Whether he was playing football, participating in different activities, or heading out into the community, each experience gave him another opportunity to grow.

“I’m really happy that I decided to try camp because it turned out to be such a great experience,” Caleb shared. “I enjoyed all the different activities, especially going to Greener Village To make bread for their clients and seeing everything they’re working on – and the ice cream day at Happy Baker was awesome too!”

For Melissa, one of the most meaningful parts of the experience was seeing Caleb’s confidence and independence grow. By the end of camp, he was comfortable walking into the Y on his own and genuinely excited to be there. What began with some hesitation became an experience he didn’t want to end. That sense of belonging was more than excitement about camp – it reflected the confidence that can grow when a young person finds a place to belong, discovers new interests, and realizes what they’re capable of.