Staff Feature: Ilyana

Get to know Ilyana

Ilyana has always looked up to her older brother, so when he became a Counselor at Dream Oaks Camp, she knew she wanted to give it a shot herself! After spending her first summer with the campers, she knew she wanted to do this for the rest of her life and has been coming back ever since.

We asked Missy some questions to learn more about who she is and what Foundation for Dreams and Dream Oaks Camp means to her, here’s what she said…

What does Burn Bright mean to you?
It means to let yourself shine and be who you really are inside. To not let other people dampen your glow and to feel truly free and creative and 100% you.

How has working at Foundation for Dreams impacted you?
I used to think I wanted to be a singer or something, I had no real plans for the future and no real social skills, as I was very shy. After just one summer, I learned exactly what I wanted to do with my life and how I could make a difference in the world. By working with such an amazing team, I learned valuable people skills and how to work together to help achieve common goals. The things that you learn here have helped me a lot outside of the workplace as well.
 
Why is Foundation for Dreams and Dream Oaks Camp so vital to our community?
Because this is a place where everyone is accepted and welcomed. We don’t judge you based on what you look like or what things you might need help with. It’s a foundation and a camp that teaches acceptance and friendship, as well as problem solving skills and independence. Every kid who comes in to this camp leaves here with special memories and even more confidence.
 
What is your favorite thing about working at Foundation for Dreams?
I love all the kids here so much. They’re all so sweet and I know that even if I’m having a bad day, seeing their smiles will always make everything better. I get to be their friend as well as their Counselor in Training, and get to watch them have fun with staff members but other kids. It’s amazing to watch them grow and know that I get to be a part of that.
 
Tell us one fun fact about yourself… (or three!)
I’m an avid crocheter, I have sung choral music for six years now, and I want to be a child psychologist!

Without all-stars like Ilyana, we wouldn’t be able to do what we do. We are so grateful for all of our team at Foundation for Dreams!

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