Que Kidz Dayz Program Introduces Local Youth to Camping and Outdoors

Photos and Story by Bro. Donald Belle

The Gamma Pi chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. recently partnered with 4-H of Prince George’s County and the Kentland Community Center to host a camping weekend at Watkins Park.  The camping weekend was conducted from May 15^th to May 17^th and the weekend was filled with fun and educational activities.   In true Que fashion, the brothers were first on the scene Friday evening to help setup tents, unload supplies, and welcome more than 30 kids to the campsite. For most all of them it was their first-ever camping experience.

Bro.Orlando McDowell addresses youth

Saturday morning started with a discussion on cardiovascular health.  Brothers stressed the importance of maintaining a healthy heart and taught the students how to take their pulse and calculate heart rate. The students were encouraged to engage in physical activity for at least 60 minutes each day.  After learning about heart rate and exercise the students transitioned into morning warm-ups which consisted of jogging drills, pushups, and stretches. 

Communication and trust was the theme for the next activity as the students completed a blind obstacle course.  While one student provided verbal directions, the other student blindly navigated the obstacles.  The students learned about giving clear and meaningful directions and improved their listening skills while working as a team.  After the obstacle course, students worked on a God’s Eye arts and crafts project and prepared for kickball.  Students put their newly developed communication skills to the test during the kickball game as they traded turns on offense and defense. 

After kickball, the students had a chance to cook-out with the Ques as they dined on burgers/hotdogs with healthy chips and fruit.  The students were even treated to a mini step show by some of the brothers.

The camping weekend was a huge success and a great opportunity for Gamma Pi to partner with other organizations on the most worthy of causes -- our kids. 

Check out more photos below and a YouTube feature video here