Salesians hold urban summer camp for 164 youth

(MissionNewswire) The Xuvenil Amencer Association at the Salesian center in Ourense, Spain, held its 37th edition of the Ourense Urban Camp in August. The camp brought together 164 youth between the ages of 8-16 and 93 volunteers. The camp is a chance to empower youth to see a brighter future through a mix of activities.

On the welcome day of the camp, participants went to the three bridges in Ourense to perform together as a symbol of the beginning of the camp. An “Urban Culture Day” followed where youth visited different examples of city culture, such as bookstores, libraries, a performing arts center and the city’s cathedral, to learn about the characteristics of each of them.

The second week included a wide range activities focused on sports and nature. Youth engaged in various sporting activities in locations across the city. Youth also learned about the importance of respecting the environment. A Salesian explained, “Youth were involved in what has been called ‘Good People’s Day’. On this occasion they met all the groups that provide services to the city, such as the police, cleaners and public transportation workers. They also met with leaders from different companies to explain how their business works.”

Participants also visited the Samil beach in Vigo and took part in a “Carnival  Day” in a suburb, which included visiting squares in the city where they carried out activities to learn about the characteristic elements of carnival in this area. The third and final week, participants visited a new water park in Monterrei and organized celebrations such as a foam party and a Hawaiian-themed party.

“These weeks have been a great effort,” said Laura Fernández, director of the Urban Camp 2024. “But at the same time, they have been much fun and a way for participants to learn about each other.”

Salesian missionaries in Spain provide primary and secondary educational as well as vocational and technical school to ensure youth acquire employment skills for the futures. Salesians also work to meet the basic needs of those in poverty and offer workforce development opportunities to ensure an easier school to work transition.

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Sources:

ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)

ANS – Spain – The 37th edition of the Urban Camp in Ourense: a dream summer!

Salesian Missions – Spain