Katie Rankin, Communications Specialist for Communities In Schools (CIS) of Chicago, describes how their community partners are adapting to virtual environments during COVID-19, and includes Action Camp as an example:

“As Chicago Public Schools begins the fall 2020 semester remotely, teachers and school administrators are examining how to engage students in academic curriculum, but they are also looking at how to meet students’ social and emotional needs as well…

“This summer, for example, the Illinois Safe Schools Alliance of PHIMC, a CIS of Chicago community partner, planned a five-day Action Camp. In normal years, Action Camp convenes LGBTQ+ youth leaders in a sleepaway camp setting, where they support and celebrate all identities. Action Camp went virtual this year, but the Alliance was still able to create a ‘bunk’ experience for students via virtual breakout rooms, workshops, evening activities, and community-building.

“The Alliance’s pivot is just one example of our community partners’ innovation this year. As the fall semester gets underway, CIS of Chicago is helping partners connect with school communities and navigate everything from program logistics to student engagement strategies.”

Read the full article here, published October 2, 2020 on Medium:
Community Partner Innovation through Virtual Programming

Learn more here about Illinois Safe Schools Alliance.

Thank you to CIS of Chicago for their partnership and generosity.