LINCOLN UNIVERSITY, Pa. – The Lincoln University (PA) volleyball team continued its commitment to serving the community this summer, volunteering with Camp Dreamcatcher and helping create lasting memories for youth affected by HIV/AIDS.
Camp Dreamcatcher hosts a free, week-long camp that provides children impacted by HIV/AIDS with a safe and supportive environment filled with recreational and therapeutic activities. The experience gives campers an opportunity to build friendships, have fun and, most importantly, simply enjoy being kids.
For the Lions, the annual visit has become much more than a community service project. Lincoln volleyball has volunteered with the organization for the past three years, developing a special connection with campers and staff.
This year, members of the volleyball program spent time with eight different cabins of boys and girls ranging from 12 to 17 years old. The Lions introduced campers to the game of volleyball, teaching skills and participating in friendly competition throughout the day.
While volleyball brought everyone together, building relationships remained at the heart of the experience.
Between drills and games, the Lions shared plenty of laughter, encouragement and conversations with the campers. The competitive spirit on the court quickly turned into opportunities to connect, have fun and create memories that extended far beyond volleyball.
The relationship between Lincoln and Camp Dreamcatcher has also expanded beyond the team's annual visit. Last year, Lincoln volleyball welcomed members of Camp Dreamcatcher's Leaders in Training program to campus for a tour of Lincoln University, providing the young leaders with an opportunity to experience college life and learn more about the nation's first degree-granting Historically Black College and University.
Through three years of service, the Lions have continued to strengthen their bond with Camp Dreamcatcher while demonstrating the importance of using athletics as a platform to positively impact others.
For Lincoln volleyball, the experience is also a reminder that some of the most meaningful victories happen away from competition.
The Lions look forward to continuing their relationship with Camp Dreamcatcher and returning next year for another week filled with volleyball, laughter, connection and memories that will last a lifetime.
