Roseville High School seniors Tiana Denny, Lauren Diminyatz, Savannah Nicholson, Dzereta Delic, Aurelia Moulin, Larrisa Borowiak and juniors Alatna Walsh and Ashley Martin were able to be a part of a four-day program to promote environmentalism in fifth and sixth graders.

     Shady Creek Outdoor Education takes approximately two hundred children into the mountains of Nevada County for a unique and enriching experience. For $300, kids can attend the four-day camp, sleep in residence cabins and learn fundamental environmental facts and survival skills from trained naturalists.

     These RHS students, along with other high school students, volunteered as camp counselors. Camp counselors look after groups of children and make sure they are staying safe and having a good time.

     According to Denny, this was an excellent opportunity, as she enjoys being a mentor.

     “I love helping kids and working with them,” said Denny. “I love being around nature and it was a good opportunity for volunteer work.”

     Counselors Nicholson and Borowiak were in charge of five children which provided many pleasant recollections.

     “It’s one of my best memories from senior year,” said Borowiak.

     From February 14-17, the student counselors were responsible for looking after their charges, leading activities, assisting teachers and were role models for participation and attitude for the children.

     “I was like a mom to the kids,” said Denny.

     Another part of their duties was setting up the activities for recreational time after leaving the kids with their teachers.

      “I was in charge of the whole recreational process,” said Nicholson. “It was really fun.”

     According to Denny, the experience helped hone her leadership skills and it was enjoyable learning from the knowledgeable naturalists and being in the beautiful environment.

     “I got a lot out of it,” said Denny. “It was stressful and tiring, but really fun.”

     While her college plans will prevent her from continuing to volunteer for Shady Creek, Denny advises other RHS students to get involved.

     “Go for it,” said Denny. “I definitely recommend it.”

     On the other hand, Nicholson accepted a job position as a student naturalist and thus will be coming back for all of next year. She will be taking college online.

     For Nicholson, the experience is almost spiritual.

     “Shady Creek is my happy place,” said senior Nicholson.