Summers at Hope Solutions’s East County site are usually abuzz with activity. Students have worked on large canvas pieces as part of their art camp – using rollerblades, bicycles, and skateboards to create abstract masterpieces worthy of Jackson Pollock. There have also been countless music and dance camps, as well as opportunities for students to challenge themselves academically with something new – like learning robotics during STEM camp. However, thanks to a volunteer named Terri Night, children at Los Medanos Village learned how to slow down and practice mindfulness with Tai Chi camp this summer. Recent studies have shown that meditative practices like these are extremely beneficial to young students who have been effected by poverty and trauma. Benefits include increased academic performance (including school attendance and improved GPA) and reduced likelihood of criminal behavior. Thank you Terri, and all summer camp volunteers, for broadening Hope Solutions students’ horizons and helping to make a safe and memorable summer.