Every year, we are so fortunate to have such dedicated and caring summer staff. When we hire these staff members, we tell them that the experience will have just as much of an impact on them as it will on the kids they are supporting. This story confirms what we’ve known all along–even decades later, a Keshet summer can still touch your life. Thank you, Robyn Ackerman for sharing your story with us.

In 1999, I was privileged to become a Keshet camp counselor/aide to the cutest little boy. He lacked typical verbal and social skills. The following two years I was his aide again at his camps. He continued to thrive, make friends, we found activities he enjoyed and his smarts were ever apparent. I also babysit him during the school year. In 2001, I went off to college and lost touch.

Last night, as I entered a concert with a group of friends, I handed my ticket to the attendant and he scanned it and said, “Enjoy.” I looked up and immediately recognized this young man. I asked him his name and he confirmed. It was as if I was star-struck. I actually had to hold back tears. I told him who I was, he politely smiled, and I asked him about himself.

He’s now in his 20s, works at a school during the year, and is doing great.

This kid has come so far. As his aide, I always thought and hoped I was making a positive impact on him. He maybe doesn’t even remember me, but the impact on me of seeing him, and seeing the incredible person he now is immeasurable.