The first day of camp at Camp Bishop set a powerful tone for the week as Workforce Development families gathered for a special evening of cultural enrichment and community bonding. The camp kicked off with the arrival of Gene Tagaban, an esteemed storyteller, performer, and mentor of Tlingit, Cherokee, and Filipino descent. Known for his work with the Native Wellness Institute, Gene brought a message that resonated deeply with both parents and children.
In his session with the parents, Gene spoke about the importance of identity and self-awareness, encouraging them to reflect on how they present themselves to the world. His words urged the parents to think deeply about their roles as models for their children, shaping the future by the way they live today. Later in the evening, the children gathered to hear traditional Tlingit stories, including those of Rabbit and Raven. Gene’s message to the young ones was clear: each of them is incredibly special, carrying the hopes and dreams of their ancestors. He encouraged the children to walk a good path, to do good things, and to recognize their own worth.
The first day was only the beginning of what proved to be an enriching and dynamic week. The campers engaged in a variety of activities designed to strengthen cultural ties, build skills, and promote well-being. They experienced the ancient art of cedar harvesting and weaving, a hands-on activity that connected them to their heritage. They also had the opportunity to learn how to play lacrosse, a sport with deep roots in Native American culture.
Parents and caretakers participated in “Motherhood and Fatherhood is Sacred” learning groups, where they explored the values and practices that strengthen families and communities. Additionally, there were talks on healthy relationships, further supported by storytelling that emphasized respect, understanding, and communication.
Recreation was abundant as campers enjoyed swimming, archery, and more, all while being surrounded by the natural beauty of Camp Bishop. But the learning didn’t stop there. Other programs from the South Puget Intertribal Planning Agency (SPIPA) joined the camp to offer wrap-around services that supported the families in practical ways. These included financial literacy workshops and a health and wellness scavenger hunt, providing valuable life skills in a fun and engaging format.
The week was also marked by a special visit from SPIPA board member Vicki Kruger, affectionately known to the campers as “Granny.” Vicki shared a powerful message about the importance of staying off drugs, reinforcing the values of healthy living and personal responsibility. She also took the time to teach the campers a few traditional songs, leaving a lasting impression on everyone present.
The turnout for this year’s camp was impressive, with participants and organizers already looking forward to an even bigger event next year. The success of the camp was a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved. A heartfelt thank you goes out to all who participated and contributed to making this event a memorable and impactful experience for our Workforce Development families.
As the week came to a close, the sense of community, culture, and shared purpose was stronger than ever, leaving everyone inspired and connected.
