Twenty-three middle school girls graduated from Soroptimist International’s Start Dreaming day camp on July 9 at Langley Middle School.

Members of the South Whidbey club mentored, entertained, informed, and encouraged campers along the way. Women currently in the professional world dropped in to share stories and expertise. Janie Keilwitz from the Life Center at Whidbey General Hospital demonstrated ways to deal with stress and emphasized how thinking positively creates its own outcome. Mandy Hewitson, a young adults counselor with Compass Health, guided the girls in the creation of a “My Best Qualities” brochure. Wendy Barker of Tiger Martial Arts had the girls role play their way out of situations involving dangerous strangers. Dr. Karen Carbone of All About Health provided food for thought with her piles of butter and stacks of sugar cubes. Janie Gerlach, a personal trainer at Island Athletic Club, held Zumba classes and a team-building obstacle course.

Participants were also treated to an appearance by Langley Mayor Fred McCarthy. He talked about community and how lucky the girls are to live in such a beautiful area.

Lisa Grosso and Kathy Habel, co-chairs of the Day Camp program wanted to thank its community sponsors in Payless Foods, Windermere Real Estate, Whidbey Island Bank, and Peggy Juve Design.

Soropotimist International is open to women of all ages, cultures and ethnic groups. Information about joining the South Whidbey club can be found at http://portal.clubrunner.ca/100733.