Newsletter #2—August 18, 2023: Reflections on Camp RYSE 2023!

Dear Friend of RYSE,

Camp RYSE 2023 was a success! We completed five spectacular weeks of summer learning and recreation, and I am unbelievably proud of our collective growth – as campers, as staff, and as an organization!

For those of you I haven’t had the privilege of meeting, I’m thrilled to introduce myself as Sunni Ryan, RYSE’s first-ever Executive Director. I join this remarkable community with a background in refugee services, including experience specific to resettlement, program development, youth engagement, and strategic planning. Leading an organization like RYSE is a dream come true, and I am honored to carry forward its incredible culture of passion and ingenuity.

Camp RYSE’s 12th summer was made possible by a season of tremendous growth. Since transitioning to an independent nonprofit in August of 2022, RYSE has strengthened its mission of fostering literacy, confidence, and community among refugee youth through hands-on, joyful summer learning.

This year, we introduced a brand new literacy and STEM curriculum, developed by our hand-picked Curriculum Committee. We led field trips that encouraged the exploration of art, creativity, and innovation. We built on the rich tradition of camp as a space for self-discovery and watched in delight as campers grew into more confident versions of themselves – dancing freely at All Camp Circle or volunteering to read aloud in class. I am moved to know that Camp RYSE’s influence will carry on long after the summer ends.

I am moved, too, by the ways in which you, our greater community, have supported RYSE’s vision and expansion. As this season of growth continues, I invite you to consider deepening your involvement by joining our Board of Directors. The work we do and its many beautiful impacts are made possible by our collective commitment. Thank you for believing with us. Let’s continue to grow together.

With gratitude,

Sunni Ryan

Executive Director