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Camp Cronin: An intergenerational enrichment camp embracing wisdom, youth – Vincent Marzullo
It’s been more than a decade since Camp Cronin, owned by the City of Providence and located at Pt. Judith, in Narragansett, functioned as an escape from the hot summer days for the kids of Providence and its seniors. In a fast-paced and COVID recovery period, the benefits of bridging the generation gap have become more apparent than ever before. Intergenerational learning and enrichment camps offer a unique platform that fosters meaningful connections between different age groups while promoting knowledge exchange, empathy, and understanding.
Such a camp can provide a plethora of benefits to both young and older participants, creating a transformative experience that leaves a lasting impact on all involved. With the new City Administration in place and looking to make Providence a “World Class” city, isn’t it time to reimagine the city’s use of Camp Cronin as a unifying and life defining asset?
At an intergenerational camp, the wisdom of the older generation can blend harmoniously with the energy and curiosity of the younger generation. Elderly participants bring with them a wealth of life experiences, valuable lessons, and wisdom that cannot be found in textbooks or classrooms. Sharing these insights with younger attendees would help to instill a sense of appreciation for history, culture, and tradition. Simultaneously, the youthful vigor and innovative ideas of the younger participants would invigorate the older generation, fostering a sense of optimism and hope for the future.
One of the key benefits of an intergenerational camp lies in the mutual learning experience. Older individuals have the opportunity to enhance their technological literacy and stay updated on modern trends, while younger participants gain a deeper understanding of the past and a greater appreciation for their roots. This bi-directional knowledge transfer breaks down age-related stereotypes and creates a space for open-mindedness, promoting a sense of unity and respect.
Moreover, an intergenerational camp can foster empathy and reduce ageism by bringing generations together in a supportive and non-judgmental environment. Through shared activities and engaging conversations, stereotypes and biases are challenged, and participants develop a more profound understanding of each other’s perspectives. The bonds that would be formed at such a camp can extend beyond the program, resulting in lifelong friendships and a broader social support network.
An intergenerational camp could also contribute to emotional and mental well-being for both older and younger participants. For older individuals, being surrounded by the enthusiasm and positivity of the younger generation provides a renewed sense of purpose and happiness. For the younger generation, spending time with older adults helps reduce feelings of isolation and fear of aging, while gaining insights on how to age gracefully.
Finally, an intergenerational learning and enrichment camp can be a powerful platform that fosters connection, understanding, and personal growth among participants of different ages and ethnicities. Such a camp would create a ripple effect of positive change, nurturing empathy, breaking down stereotypes, and enhancing the overall well-being of all involved. By embracing the wisdom of the past and the potential of the future, a reimagined Camp Cronin would pave the way for a more inclusive and compassionate “Divine Providence”.
VIDEO by Jason Allard who shoots Abandoned Locations in the greater RI area:
Editor’s Note: This oped follows a story written one year ago about plans to rebirth Camp Cronin for the young and old(er) of Providence – 2 years have passed since Marzullo began his quest
By Vincent Marzullo
Marzullo recently completed a 2-month assignment as the Interim Executive Director of the DaVinci Community Center in Providence. During COVID he completed 30 mission assignments as a RI Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) member and for the past 6 years Vin has been a playroom volunteer at Hasbro Children’s Hospital. He served for 31 years as a federal civil rights/social justice Director in RI with the Corporation for National & Community Service. Vin is a Past President of AARP RI and currently serves on the Board of the Senior Agenda Coalition of RI. Deployed several times as a Federal Disaster Cadre Coordinator when Presidential Disaster Declarations were issued, he supervised AmeriCorps humanitarian support and long-term recovery assistance to aid FEMA response operations to State/local governments and key local partners. Vin served three Rhode Island Governors and is the Founder of USA Compassion Corps.