Our Lawrence, Massachusetts, fall visit with Jonathan and Eman was filled with opportunities to learn, grow, serve, and experience new things. From the Matt Light Celebrity Shootout to college exploration, community service, the Patriots Hall of Fame, and an escape room, the boys made the most of every opportunity throughout the week. 

We kicked off the week on September 15 with the Matt Light Celebrity Shootout, where Jonathan and Eman had the opportunity to represent Camp Vohokase on stage alongside fellow participants from our Turkey Hunt and Timber Frame Leadership programs. They shared their experiences with Camp Vohokase and discussed how the program has challenged them and helped them grow as young leaders.

Beyond their time on stage, the boys had the chance to meet celebrities, special operators, and supporters of The Light Foundation. They also enjoyed several of the activities throughout the Shootout, including firing handguns, participating in a live-fire simulator, and testing their skills in archery. Most importantly, they embraced the experience, represented Camp Vohokase well, and showed the confidence they have developed through their time in the program.

Our official visit day on Saturday, September 19, began with a trip to Stonehill College, made possible through a new Light Foundation friend and volunteer, Patricia Flaherty, Director of Graduate Admissions. Tricia welcomed us to campus and helped make the experience special as we toured the school, explored the campus, and learned more about the opportunities available to students. Jonathan and Eman asked great questions and showed genuine curiosity throughout the visit. 

After working up an appetite, we grabbed a quick lunch at Birdies before heading to The Light Foundation headquarters. There, the boys spent time giving back through community service, helping clean up and organize following the Celebrity Shootout. It was a great opportunity to remind them that leadership is not only about the experiences we receive, but also about being willing to serve and help others.

Thanks to Matt Light, our next stop was the Patriots Hall of Fame, where Jonathan and Eman explored the exhibits and took in everything the Hall had to offer. From the history of the Patriots to the interactive experiences, it was another opportunity to step outside of their normal routines and experience something new.

We then put our problem-solving skills to the test at Escapeology. Hayden and the boys took on the hardest room they offer. After working together, communicating, and putting the clues together, we escaped with more than a minute and a half to spare! It was a great reminder of how important teamwork, communication, and staying composed under pressure can be. 

We wrapped up the evening with dinner at Karma in Andover. Over some great food, we spent time reflecting on the day and looking at ways Jonathan and Eman can continue to grow after reviewing their Predictive Index results. The Predictive Index is a scientifically backed behavioral analysis tool that provides insight into areas such as communication, strengths, perceptions, personality, and more, all of which can contribute to workforce development and personal growth in both individual and professional environments. This effort is led by our friend Todd Gross, CEO/President at NgenioUSA and an MPO Certified Consultant with MPO Solutions by Ngenio. The conversation gave us an opportunity to talk about their individual strengths, how they interact with others, and areas they can continue developing as they prepare for their futures. 

Overall, Jonathan and Eman had an incredible week. They represented Camp Vohokase extremely well at the Celebrity Shootout, embraced every opportunity during our visit, gave back through service, challenged themselves, and continued to grow as young men and leaders. We are proud of the way they continue to show up, ask questions, try new things, and make the most of the opportunities in front of them. We are excited to see where their continued growth takes them!