Returning as a Staff Alum
By Randy Larson
2018-2022 Staff Alum & 2024 Adult Volunteer
This last summer in Chiloquin, Oregon started as your typical SSP experience: reunions with old friends, creating memories with new friends, and of course helping a community. I was returning to Chiloquin with a group of staff alumni, most of us about to be first-time counselors and excited to undergo the week representing a new role.
“I was returning to Chiloquin with a group of staff alumni, most of us about to be first time counselors and excited to undergo the week representing a new role.”
Though it was the most truncated week of the summer, it turned out to be one of my most valuable summers yet. Also, I had increased access to daily Red Vines at staff/counselor meetings. Despite my influx of treats, like every SSP it came with its own set of unique challenges.
There were major highlights throughout the week, including a heartwarming reunion with a community member for whom SSP had previously built a ramp. One of my favorite moments was during the community dinner; it was great watching youth volunteers eagerly waiting to interact with the multi-talented maven I had hyped up during the days before.
Amongst these beautiful moments also came minor hardships. Quarantined friends and teammates turned into lessons about overcoming challenges and creating positivity. When others (including myself) felt disappointment and pity over the situation, our friends’ steadfast commitment to finishing the week despite the circumstances reminded us of our ability to adapt and continue serving the community.
“Perhaps the most important part of the week for me was returning to the sites and scenic locations from my time on staff, that I still think about when I need some comfort.”
Perhaps the most important part of the week for me was returning to the sites and scenic locations from my time on staff, that I still think about when I need some comfort. Coming back to this town always leaves me fulfilled and ready to return again.
If I could change any part of the week, would I? No, because like Red Vines, we must be flexible, sweet, and a little bit twisted.
Editor’s Note: Randy is a staff alum who served in both Chiloquin, OR and San Diego, CA. In summer 2025, we’ll be hosting another week of service for staff alumni & friends – this time in San Diego! Check out details via our Facebook event. Additionally, if you’re interested in applying for summer 2025 staff (must be 18 or older by summer), applications are now open.
Connecting with Community Partners
By Ceci Carbone
2024 Construction Coordinator in Chiloquin, OR
Getting to work in Chiloquin for our first summer back since 2019 was such a rewarding experience! I loved reconnecting with various community members and strengthening relationships for the future.
One person I am grateful to have connected with was Wendy Bernard. She welcomed us with open arms from the first time we met, and was so excited about our return. Working on her project was a new and exciting opportunity that challenged me in many ways and taught me so much.
“Working on her project was a new and exciting opportunity that challenged me in many ways and taught me so much.”
Wendy was so understanding throughout the entire project and strived to welcome volunteers into her home each week. Volunteers loved talking to her and her husband, learning about their pasts, and discovering how great of an impact our work has had and continues to have on their lives.
The care and love I have for Wendy is immeasurable, and I hope all the work SSP has done serves her well for many years to come.
Editor’s Note: Ceci has been on summer staff for two consecutive years as a Construction Coordinator. If you’re interested in applying for summer 2025 staff (must be 18 or older by summer), applications are now open.