Dear Friends,

As I prepare to welcome my first child into the world this month, I’ve been reflecting a lot on what children need to grow & THRIVE. They need a community of supportive adults and peers; they need access to healthy foods, fresh air, and green space; they need a safe place to be kids; they need JOY and AFFIRMATIONS of their JOYOUS EXISTENCE. They need — the programs and opportunities that Acta Non Verba provides, with YOUR help!

One of my favorite memories occurred during Summer Camp ANV 2021. One of the campers ran up to me and said, “Ms. Sydney, Ms. Sydney! I just tried a blueberry for the first time!!” Echoing his excitement, I responded, “Oh my gosh, how exciting! Did you like it?” And he said, “YES! I think I’m going to go get another one!” The look of pure joy on this boy’s face as he tried something new, while in a safe and supportive environment like Camp ANV, will forever stick with me.

Another favorite from my 3+ years at ANV happened during our 2022 Camp ANV Family Camping Trip. At the end of the summer camp season, we headed up to Mt. Diablo State Park with 50 kids and their family members. On our first night, we watched the sunset over the valley, and the kids all waved goodbye to the sun. As the sun disappeared below the horizon, one young camper exclaimed, “I just saw the sun go down, it was so cool!! It was my first time seeing that!”

It’s these little moments of joy that children (and adults!) will remember for the rest of their lives. It’s these moments of connection that spark young leaders to care about nature, about food justice, about each other.

EVERY child deserves access to experiences in nature, healthy foods to nourish their growing bodies, and safe and supportive spaces to just be kids. This is what I wish for my daughter, as she enters the world; this is what I wish for ALL kids. Help ANV provide this access across Oakland:

     🍅 $200 sends one child to a week of After School Program
     👩‍🌾 $750 sends one child to a week of Camp ANV
     🌟 $4,500 sends one child to an entire SUMMER of Camp ANV, where the only limit is IMAGINATION!!

Together, we can affirm and grow the next generation of farmers, environmental stewards, and changemakers.

Thank you for your affirmation of JOY and Discovery in the world!

In Joy and Hope,

Donate to Acta Non Verba Today!
https://bit.ly/ANVKids2023