In the heart of the Double Lake Recreation Area, amidst towering trees and the symphony of nature, the Service Above S'mores camping trip unfolded, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of Rotarians and Returned Peace Corps Volunteers (RPCVs) alike. Co-sponsored by the Rotary Club of Houston Skyline and the Houston Peace Corps Association, this rendezvous in the wilderness became a testament to the power of collaboration and shared values.
Nature's Symphony and Campfire Chronicles: Crafting Memories in the Wilderness
The adventure kicked off with check-in on Friday, October 6, 2023, and campers quickly discovered that this wasn't just a camping trip; it was a VIP pass to the great outdoors. Pro tips were exchanged, tents were pitched, and the anticipation of escaping city chaos heightened. As the sun set, the camping crew found themselves immersed in a weekend of laughter, camaraderie, and nature therapy.
"Rotary and Peace Corps are grounded in similar values, which is why the partnership between the two service organizations makes so much sense," remarks Josh Spencer, President of the Houston Peace Corps Association.
The nights were adorned with Campfire Chronicles, where marshmallow-roasting, jokes, and off-key renditions of camp songs created bonds among the camping crew. Stargazing became an extravaganza, with the absence of city lights offering a front-row seat to the galaxy's greatest show.
International Flavors: Breaking Bread and Bridging Borders
Amidst the rustling leaves, an unexpected delight awaited the camping crew. Diyar Talal, Rotary Skyline's Community Solutions Program (CSP) Fellow from Iraq, brought a touch of international flavor to the adventure. Alongside his Iraqi guests, Diyar curated a culinary experience that transcended cultural boundaries.
"Camping in the United States was a must-have experience for me, and I was fortunate to fully enjoy a memorable Peace Corps-Rotary camping trip," shared Diyar Talal. "It served as a bridge, connecting me to American culture while also providing me with the opportunity to share my own cultural heritage."
As the sun cast its first rays, the aroma of Middle Eastern spices filled the crisp morning air. Delicacies from Iraq adorned the breakfast table, creating a cross-cultural tapestry against the backdrop of the Double Lake wilderness. The breakfast gatherings became a celebration of friendship, food, and the shared love for the great outdoors.
Josh Spencer, President of the Houston Peace Corps Association, expressed, "I’m happy that such kindred spirits were able to enjoy each other’s company and the outdoors. The Houston Peace Corps Association and I look forward to many more of such productive engagements with Rotary."
Cristian Saldivar, a recently inducted member of the Rotary Club of Houston Skyline, shared, "My experience was very joyful, and I left the camping with a bunch of good friends that I expected to keep in touch with for a long time."
Diyar Talal encapsulated the essence of the experience, stating, "Interacting with people from diverse travel backgrounds was a true delight, and I was thrilled to introduce my fellow participants to the flavors of Iraqi cuisine during our breakfasts."
Steps for Co-Sponsoring Camping Trips in Your Locale
1. Identify Common Interests: Find common ground and shared values between your Rotary Club and local Peace Corps Association.
2. Establish Clear Communication: Open channels for effective communication between the two organizations to coordinate logistics and plan the event seamlessly.
3. Select an Ideal Location: Choose a camping site that offers a retreat into nature, providing an escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. If you have multiple Rotary Clubs or RPCV groups involved, find a site that’s easily accessible for all.
4. Organize Diverse Activities: Plan a variety of activities, from campfire rituals to kayaking adventures, ensuring there's something for everyone. Consider providing family-friendly entertainment and outings.
5. Encourage Cultural Exchange: Embrace diversity by incorporating elements of cultural exchange, such as sharing meals and stories from different backgrounds.
6. Promote Early Registration: Encourage participants to register early to ensure smooth logistics and adequate preparation.
7. Create a Shared Spreadsheet: Set up a shared spreadsheet where campers can sign up to cook one of the meals and coordinate camping equipment. This fosters collaboration and ensures everyone is well-prepared for the camping experience.
8. Capture Memories: Document the experience through photos, videos, and participant testimonials to share the impact of the collaboration.
By following these steps, Rotary Clubs and Peace Corps Associations can create memorable camping experiences that strengthen bonds, foster cultural exchange, and embody the spirit of service above self. The Service Above S'mores camping trip stands as a beacon, illustrating the potential for collaboration to create lasting connections in the great outdoors. As the embers of the campfire glowed and stars glittered above, the camping crew vowed to return, ensuring that the memories of this collaborative adventure endure until the next call of the wild.