Director of Operations and Sales at NCB Homes, Matthew Wight, presents a sponsorship cheque to Caroline Key, of the National Trust and Heather Hopson, of Big Brothers Big Sisters, for five children to attend the National Trust’s summer camp.

Compliments of NCB Homes, five children associated with the Department of Children and Family Services and the Big Brothers Big Sisters programme have been attending the National Trust Summer Camp which concludes this Friday 8 August.

The weeklong camp has a “discovery” programme for kids aged six to 11, the National Trust said.

“The programme is built around our mission to preserve the natural and built heritage of the Cayman Islands and the camp activities aim to incorporate these elements,” said Caroline Key, Development and Marketing Manager of the National Trust.

“Through hands-on activities and excursions the campers learn about their environment and the important role that they play in preserving their surroundings.”

The National Trust camp includes activities such as snorkelling, exploring sea grass beds and mangroves, touring National Trust historic sites and learning about insects, nature and species unique to the Cayman Islands.

“As well as environmental and historical field trips, the campers also learn about local traditions, traditional Caymanian homes and architecture,” said Marnie Laing, Education Programmes Manager of the National Trust.

Matthew Wight, Director of Operations and Sales at NCB Homes, said it was a privilege to assist the children.

“Summer is about being off school and having fun for many kids, but unfortunately this doesn’t apply to all. We at NCB Homes have recognized this, through the efforts of the National Trust and Big Brothers Big Sisters, and as a result feel privileged to assist with this great opportunity,” he said.

Ms Key said the “excellent response” strengthened the belief that the camp is worth attending.

She also commended businesses and organisations that sponsor attendees.

“For a number of children camps are a quintessential part of summer, but there are some kids that don’t always get the opportunity, so I am very pleased to know that there are organisations, such as NCB Homes, who are willing to assist us in reaching as many children as possible,” she said.

Heather Hopson, a Big Brothers Big Sisters board member, recalled her experiences at similar camps as a youngster.

“My fondest memories as a child include time spent at Vacation Bible School and Camp Lillian Taylor. The experience helped mould me into who I am today,” she said.

“With so much going on in the world, it gives the child a chance to just be a kid. They’ll learn about the environment and our Islands’ rich heritage as well as create lifelong memories.”

Ms Hopson also thanked the National Trust, NCB Homes and the Big Brothers Big Sisters for providing this avenue to the youth this summer.

For more information on the National Trust please call 949-0121 or email info@nationaltrust.org.ky. Alternatively, please visit www.nationaltrust.org.ky