Aaron’s Acres is so excited to announce its 2024 Vice President of its Board of Directors! We are excited to have Board Vice President Amanda Katchur, Psy.D. (she/her), Licensed Psychologist and Program Coordinator for the School-Based Outpatient Therapy Program at Community Services Group in Lancaster, PA. Amanda brings unique perspective to Aaron’s Acres as a parent, staff member and volunteer.
My first encounter with Aaron’s Acres was in the summer of 2022 when I was invited to visit camp. Upon arriving, it was clear that this camp was unlike anything I had ever experienced. Not only were the activities accessible to all campers; they were also created to build on the strengths of the individual participants. My favorite part was seeing the pure joy of the campers interacting with the staff. In my heart, I knew that I wanted to be a part of creating that joy and those opportunities.
Since that day at camp, I have been fortunate to experience Aaron’s Acres in a variety of ways. I am a member of the board and the current Vice President. This position has taught me so much about what it takes to make Aaron’s Acres the incredible organization that it is. I have seen the thoughtfulness and care that goes into every decision and have been lucky enough to be a part of this decision-making. I am constantly inspired by the love, energy, determination, and dedication that the staff put into programs and making an impact in the community. It also has been amazing to see the way in which the community supports Aaron’s Acres.
As a board member, it has been important to me to get to know our programs and participants. Over the past year, I have spent time volunteering in our Adults Sports League and the Chuckie Magee Flag Football and Cheerleading League. I also was able to experience camp firsthand last summer through volunteering for one of the sessions. I can say, hands down, that there is nothing like being a part of a group that celebrates every participant. When you are a part of Aaron’s Acres, you are seen for who you are and valued as a person. I walked away from camp this summer with so many laughs, smiles, and meaningful interactions with the campers. It is something that I wish everyone could experience.
My newest involvement with Aaron’s Acres is as Leo’s mom. Leo is my 5-year-old son and a very enthusiastic participant in the school year program. From the first time that he started programming, I could see the positive way it has influenced him. He eagerly asks when he will be able to go again and proudly shows off his art and projects to anyone who visits our home. I am so grateful for the way that staff have taken the time to get to know him and are able to notice and acknowledge his accomplishments. It is a very scary thing to leave your child in the care of others, especially when there are unique challenges that need to be considered. The safety that Aaron’s Acres has created for myself and for my family has been the greatest gift. It has also been incredibly important for our daughter to see the way that Aaron’s Acres has cared for her brother.
It is safe to say that Aaron’s Acres has my heart, and I am thrilled to be a part of creating that magic for others.
– Amanda Katchur, Aaron’s Acres Board Vice President, Parent, Staff Member, and Volunteer
