There is an Ethiopian proverb that states: You cannot build a house for last year’s summer.
Undoubtedly, this is fodder for great contemplation over the importance of our living in the present, making provisions for the future and not dwelling on the past.
It also underscores the value of the summer camp initiative of the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA) – because, through that initiative, their Southern California chapter is achieving all of this and more.
Every summer, in fact, SoCal NOMA creates opportunities for youth ages 10-17 – the future leaders of the next generation – to learn about the fundamental elements of architecture and develop the specialized skills that are critical for anyone pursuing a career in that field.
Over the course of four weeks, young people who range in age, interests and skill levels are given the opportunity to work individually and collaboratively with one another, using their creativity and ingenuity to find design solutions for issues affecting their community. Skills covered include sketching, drawing, and hands-on model making. The program also consists of educational walking tours.
For children who exhibit an interest in or aptitude for architectural design or engineering, this is a summer camp option worthy of consideration. The organization is also seeking sponsors to support the summer program and its campers.
Located at East Los Angeles College, 1301 Avenida Cesar Chavez in Monterey Park, the camp runs each Saturday in July from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., making it an immersive experience for its campers.
Learn more at www.socalnoma.org.
