History Student Spotlight: Dakota Koch (BC Newcomer Camp)

Описание: Fourth-year History student Dakota Koch discusses his organization BC Newcomer Camp, a free summer camp program for refugee children.

Interested in supporting the camp? The organization is currently looking for support in marketing, accounting, curriculum design and more. Donate or sign up to volunteer at their website: https://bit.ly/2XI5AJr

Dakota offered more information about the BC Newcomer Camp through a short Q&A below.

1. What is the most rewarding part of developing the BC Newcomer Camp?

I think if you asked everyone involved in BC Newcomer Camp this question we would all have the same answer- seeing the kids thrive. With many children coming from war-torn countries, or growing up in refugee camps, they haven’t had the same opportunities to have carefree, fun-filled childhood like so many of us in Canada were lucky enough to enjoy. An important aspect of the camp is teaching children English and sports, but another is just providing them with a place to be kids. Many of the kids tell us that these summers have been the most fun they’d ever had. To hear them say that, and to see them laugh and smile each day is incredibly rewarding for all of us.

2. How has this camp changed lives?

With education being such a major part of our program, it is easy to point to the obvious development of children's English skills during the summers as an example of how this camp has changed lives. I don’t want to understate that impact, because kids have greatly improved their English skills at the programs, but I think the biggest impact the camps have had is in making kids comfortable being in their new environment. Many kids have never spent any length of time with anyone outside of their immediate families, let alone amongst peers their own age. By providing a safe and structured, but fun environment the camps have allowed kids to come out of their shells in a way previously not available to them. Seeing kids become more comfortable with each other and with life in their new home is an amazing thing to see.

3. What is next for you — academia, camp, career?

I have just started the last year of my undergraduate degree here at UBC. During this academic year, I will be continuing my work with the camp, working to expand the program to new locations, and building our team to guarantee that the programs can continue to run successfully after both Duncan and I have graduated. After graduation, I’m planning on spending a year living and working in Europe, before coming home to continue my education.

4. How can people help? (can expand on what he says in the video.)

As I mentioned in the video, these programs rely heavily on private donations, and any contribution goes a long way in making sure we can continue to provide kids with this valuable programming. In addition to donations, we are always looking for volunteers. We have several volunteer teams including, but not limited to: public relations, grant writing, marketing, curriculum design, human resources, and accounting. Any students interested in getting involved with one of these teams, or in any capacity can reach us at our website www.bcnewcomercamp.org.

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