For 11 years, Camp What If has been the go-to summer program for middle schoolers deep-dive into their city. Middle schoolers visit a broad range of organizations, speak with community leaders, and explore what makes their city tick.
Community-Based ProgrammingCamp What If is centered around a specific community. In 2023, Camp What If weeks occurred in Canton, Akron and North Canton. Eligibility is based on each community partner, but typically only middle schoolers from that city or school district can attend.
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Middle Schoolers MatterCampers don't just listen to what adults are saying about their community. They have a voice too. Throughout the week, we weave in Design Thinking strategies and discover how to create ideas. By Friday, campers will have brainstormed 100s of ideas for their community, worked on one idea with a small group, and will present their idea during our closing program.
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An average day at Camp What If
9am: Arrive! Play Giant Jenga Get2Know
10am: Design Challenge - Design paper airplanes in groups of 3. Measure your test throws. What is your longest throw?
10:30am: Choose a snack and relax in a bean bag chair.
11am: Community Exploration Prep
12pm: Lunch from Deli Ohio
1pm: Grab a popsicle and load the vans! Community Exploration time.
4pm: Parent pick-up
Some days we'll spend more time in the community exploring different organizations and businesses, and every day is filled with games and activities.
10am: Design Challenge - Design paper airplanes in groups of 3. Measure your test throws. What is your longest throw?
10:30am: Choose a snack and relax in a bean bag chair.
11am: Community Exploration Prep
- 20 Questions Game
- Open-Ended vs. Close-Ended Questions
12pm: Lunch from Deli Ohio
1pm: Grab a popsicle and load the vans! Community Exploration time.
- City Hall to meet Mayor Bernabei!
- Eric Snow YMCA
4pm: Parent pick-up
Some days we'll spend more time in the community exploring different organizations and businesses, and every day is filled with games and activities.