Wellness Center Teens’ Overnight of Fun

Wellness Center Teens’ Overnight of Fun

Students connected to four Identity-run high school-based Wellness Centers swam, climbed and danced the night away from Friday November 11th at 7 p.m. to Saturday at 7 a.m. during a special “Lock-In” event planned with the City of Gaithersburg Sports and Youth Services Division.

Almost 50 teens gathered at Bohrer Park Activity Center, where they broke into groups for swimming at the Gaithersburg Aquatics Center, or games at the Olde Towne Gaithersburg Youth Center (GYC). Later they divided up between the climbing wall at the Robertson Park Youth Center and more games at the GYC. They regrouped at midnight at Bohrer Park where there was something for everyone – soccer, basketball and dodgeball, dancing and arts & crafts. Of course, they had lots of good food. Dinner at 10 p.m. Quesadillas at 3:30 a.m. A bonfire with marshmallows at 5 a.m. followed by a hearty pancake breakfast before heading home.

The goal of the Lock-In was to engage students in fun and positive activities that also strengthen connections to school, mentors and peers. Judging from the energy and feedback, it was a great success.

The Lock-In was a collaboration between the Wellness Centers at Gaithersburg High School, Wheaton High School, Watkins Mill High School and Seneca Valley High School, and the City of Gaithersburg Sports and Youth Services Division. Special thanks to Wellness Center partners 480 Club, Emerging Triumphantly, and Identity staff for pulling an all-nighter!