Diwali Camp Brings Joy and Growth to Children at St. Theresa High School
On October 30, 2024, the Urban Community Development Centre (UCDC) hosted a Diwali Camp at St. Theresa High School, bringing together 120 Hindi Community children and 10 youth leaders for a day of fun, learning, and growth. The event aimed to provide children with a platform to express themselves, make decisions, and boost their self-confidence—all within a safe and encouraging environment.
The day kicked off with the children gathering in the school quadrangle for registration, followed by an opening prayer led by Fr. Cosmos, who invoked blessings for the camp’s success. The children were then divided into six groups, each selecting a leader and a unique name to represent their team. This simple act of leadership selection set the tone for a day focused on teamwork and collaboration.
The camp’s activities began with an energetic march past and a lively Zumba dance, allowing the children to engage in physical exercise while strengthening their team spirit. The organizers ensured that each child could take part in a variety of fun games, each of which earned points. The competitive but supportive atmosphere helped participants practice decision-making, develop social skills, and enjoy the thrill of healthy competition.
Throughout the day, the children were well-cared for, with breakfast and lunch provided to keep their energy levels up. The youth volunteers from Bandra, organized under the UCDC banner, worked tirelessly to make sure everything ran smoothly. Their dedication and enthusiasm were appreciated not only by the children but also by Fr. Lawrence Correa, the Director of UCDC, who visited to encourage the participants and show support for the volunteers.
As the camp concluded, awards were given to the winning teams, celebrating their hard work and teamwork. The sense of satisfaction among the youth volunteers was evident, as they saw the joy they brought to the children’s faces. Fr. Cosmos expressed gratitude to the youth and commended the children for their enthusiastic participation. The event wrapped up with a memorable group photograph and a collective dance, capturing the spirit of unity and joy that had defined the day. The Diwali Camp was a resounding success, leaving all who participated with lasting memories and strengthened community bonds.