April 30, 2025 Spring Break Camp 2025 A Week of Exploration, Learning, and Fun School breaks offer more than just time off. They’re a chance to reconnect with nature, culture, and one another. That’s exactly what our Spring Break Camp set out to do, bringing together youth and mentors for five days of hands-on discovery across the Coachella Valley. Monday: From the Earth We launched the week with a visit to Temalpakh Farm, where youth celebrated Earth Day by harvesting organic produce from the demonstration garden. They learned about native plants, pollination, and sustainability—all while getting their hands in the soil. Operated by the Augustine Band of Cahuilla Indians, the farm’s name, temalpakh, means “from the Earth” in the Cahuilla language. Tuesday: Hiking, Drumming, and Discovery Day two led us to La Quinta Cove, where youth explored the desert landscape with magnifying glasses, uncovered a rock labyrinth, and practiced mindfulness in the open air. Later, they enjoyed story time at the La Quinta Library, followed by an immersive drumming lesson with Danza Azteca. The day closed with a quiet reflection using coloring books provided by our generous sponsor, Truly Nolen. Wednesday: Field Day Fun Midweek brought wide-open spaces and big energy with a Field Day at Bagdouma Park. Youth played kickball, flew kites, searched for bugs, colored eggs, and shared a picnic on the grass. It was a joyful afternoon that balanced physical play with curiosity and connection. Thursday: Cozy and Creative After an active few days, Day four gave everyone a chance to recharge. Mentors and youth stayed at the La Conchilla Clubhouse, where they made pancakes together, watched a movie, and enjoyed a slower pace in a familiar, welcoming space. Friday: Nature’s Classroom The week wrapped with a hike through the Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve, where youth learned about the San Andreas Fault, desert geology, and the region’s unique plants and insects. A visit to the La Quinta Library for a puppet show capped off the week with creativity and imagination. Spring Break Camp 2025 was a reminder of what’s possible when youth are given time and space to explore new environments, build relationships, and stretch their imaginations. Whether collecting eggs, journaling in the dirt, or learning about traditions through music, every day sparked new interests and strengthened connections between youth and their mentors. We’re thankful to our community partners—Temalpakh Farm, Danza Azteca, Truly Nolen, and the La Quinta Library—for making this enriching week possible. We’re already looking forward to next spring!