Submitted by Juddson Logan, Director, Seneca Nation Buffalo Creek Office
Pictured above: Summer Camp participants.
Gagwe:göh sgë:nö’! This summer marked a wonderful milestone as the Buffalo Creek Office hosted its first 6-week summer camp at our new facility (with actual air conditioning, windows, and a weatherproof roof). Each week was filled with exciting field trips, creative crafts, and lessons in the Seneca language. Our campers brought energy, curiosity, and laughter into the program, making this summer one to remember.
We would like to thank Jadyn Jones for bringing programming in from the Buffalo Urban League. A special thank you goes to our outstanding summer youth workers, Jenna Marshall and Honesty Addison, whose hard work and dedication made camp days run smoothly and joyfully. We extend deep gratitude to our Summer Language Teacher, Abigail Tallchief, for teaching the campers about the Ganönyok, which became a meaningful part of their daily routine. At the end-of-summer picnic, the campers proudly presented their knowledge of the Ganönyok to their families and community, a moment that highlighted the knowledge and cultural connection shared with them by Abbi.
From the picnic we would also like to thank our special guests: Seneca Nation Councillors Tina Abrams, Lisa Maybee, and Klint Nephew, whose attendance meant so much to the children and families. As well as Councillor Jonathan D. Williams for his role in securing the bounce house and face painter, both of which added much to the joy of the day.
Camp would not have been possible without the steadfast commitment of Assistant Director, Stephanie Maybee, and Activities Leader, Tajanay Irizarry. Their hard work, creativity, and leadership ensured that this year’s camp was a success from start to finish.
Lastly we would like to thank the campers’ parents and families for their participation and helping us do some community building in our new community building.
We look forward to expanding on this summer’s success and continuing to provide opportunities for our youth to learn, grow, and celebrate Seneca culture together.
