On behalf of the Jim Thorpe Rotary Summer Recreation Program I offer sincerest thanks to all the organizations and people who supported the program in 2019.

Originally started by the late Randy Smith (longtime Rotarian) under the auspices and with the support of the Jim Thorpe Rotary, the program marked its 24th year in existence.

Over that time, there has never been a cost for children to attend. This year 263 children (a record number) in grades 2 through 6 from the Jim Thorpe Area School District participated from June 17 to Aug. 9 at Memorial Park in Jim Thorpe.

Children engaged in arts and crafts, games, sports, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math), programs presented by the Jim Thorpe Police and Fire Departments and various other educational activities. Most importantly, it was a fun time for all the participants.

Unfortunately, this year, secondary to staffing and funding issues, we were unable to supply free lunches. However, cold breakfasts and snacks were available, and every Friday was “Pizza Day,” which is always a favorite with kids.

We offer thanks to the following, without whom the program would not be possible: Jim Thorpe Rotary; Borough of Jim Thorpe for allowing use of Memorial Park, managing the salaries of the counselors, and the generous monetary donation; Jim Thorpe Police and Fire Departments for presenting safety and educational programs, Jim Thorpe Area School District for its generous donation; Rachel Miller-Strucko, SHINE Program, for supporting the salaries of two STEM teachers; Dorinda Getz, Carbon County Workforce Training and SLIP (State/Local Internship Program), for supplying three counselors.

Also, thanks for the generous monetary support from Mauch Chunk Trust, Jim Thorpe Neighborhood Bank, Penn Forest Township, Carbon County Community Foundation, Jim Thorpe Lions, the Interact Club (High School Rotarians) of CCTI, Brandywine Transportation, Thrivent Financial and, last but not least, the numerous parents who donated money, snacks and games.

Finally, special thanks to director Emily Sofranko, who did a superb job in organizing and running the camp; co-director, Kailie Romanchik for her support of Emily; and an excellent staff of dedicated counselors: Matt Yaich, Linda Sheridan, Emily Leyden, Natalia Richards, Justin Lombardo, Shannon McHugh and Tiana Eldridge. In essence, the Summer Recreation Program was truly a community effort.

Sincerely,

Clem McGinley, MD,

Secretary,

Jim Thorpe Rotary Summer Recreation Program Coordinator