Issue link: https://alabamapower.uberflip.com/i/722088
42 The Yellowhammer Learning Program for 23 years has helped students from Hale County. The relationships formed and cultivated have helped SDC and YLP build upon their success year after year. SDC serves the kids and community in ways that nourish the mind, body and soul, and to do this the staff works seamlessly with supporters across the state. "Because of our strong partnerships with local schools, churches and other nonprofits, both Sawyerville Day Camp and the Yellowhammer Learning Program are trusted programs in the community," said Claire Cotten, assistant development and communications director. "Both are staffed by local community members and by folks from around the state of Alabama. Working side by side with community members and community organizations means that we have a better understanding of how our programs can best serve the kids who live in Greensboro and Hale County." At the beginning of each session, campers and their families attend registration on Sunday prior to camp starting early Monday morning. Campers receive free items to have during the week – an SDC-branded refillable water bottle, a swimsuit, a backpack and as many books as they would like, all donated by supporters throughout the state. Campers and staff spend their days creating arts and crafts, learning about teamwork and leadership, practicing creative writing and competing with fun games. Campers are served a hot breakfast, lunch and snack before leaving in the afternoon. Part of the mission of SDC is to broaden the horizons of the children and staff, which means creating an unforgettable camp experience. Every day, campers go to a local swimming pool, which many have never experienced. It's opportunities like these that the staff hopes are life-changing. "I hope that campers leave on Friday afternoon having had the best week of their summer," said Cotten. "I hope they make new friends, learn new skills like how to swim, make candles or tie-dye, and that they gain confidence and a strong sense of community." While serving as the journal room coordinator three years ago, Andrew Cotten saw firsthand signs of trouble with academics among some campers. He knew there was an opportunity to do more. "I noticed many kids struggling with reading aloud, enunciating multisyllable words and writing