Journal Staff Writer

A summer program for Native American youths will be offered July 10-14 from 9 a.m. to 3:40 p.m. at the Towaoc education building.

The camp is free and open to children 8-14 years old. A lunch and snack will be provided.

The program offers workshops in woodworking, cartooning, guitar, beading and flower arranging. Recreation activities and a small Bible study are also planned.

Youths will choose a discipline to learn then give a presentation at the end of camp to parents and friends.

“The summer program is designed to get Native youth interested in learning something new that is positive,” said camp organizer Christine Morales. “It helps them feel good about themselves, and is good therapy for at-risk kids.”

Sky Vision Camp Create was formed by Rich Mullins, a famous Christian singer and songwriter who taught music and preached on the Navajo reservation. He was killed in a auto crash in 1997.

“He had a vision for the ministry and saw the talent of Native Americans, something he wanted to promote,” Morales said. “He understood the history and struggles of Native peoples, and worked to encourage youths on the reservation to succeed.”

This is the seventh year the summer program has been held in Towaoc. Last year, six youths attended from White Mesa, Ute Mountain reservation in southeast Utah. This year, 17 have signed up.

“It is something fun, and they can learn a new music or art skill that they may want to pursue further,” Morales said.

For more information, call Christine Morales at 970-946-3024. Registration is also available at the education building in Towaoc on Sunset Boulevard. Volunteers for workshops and recreational activities are also needed, as well as guitars for students. The instruments will be stored overnight.