Hannah's Home Away From Home

In July of 2022, I was headed to my first year at FACES Camp, and I had a mix of emotions; I was extremely nervous but also very excited to meet new people who look similar to me and have been through similar things. I could just be myself and not have to worry about being stared at or getting bullied just because I look different. 

When I walked through the cabin door, I grew more excited, and I knew I was going to have an amazing time and meet lifelong friends. 

Hannah with FACES Camp Director, Ashley Rhodes getting ready for her first baking class at camp. FACES Camp 2026

I attended FACES Camp for two more years as a camper and continued to create amazing new memories and friendships. I am so grateful for my time at FACES Camp.

I have a lot of amazing memories at camp. One of my absolute favorite memories is sitting around the campfire at night, eating s’mores, and singing fun campfire songs. I also loved many activities like hiking in the woods, making friendship bracelets, and doing arts and crafts. 

Another one of my favorite memories is going frog catching. It’s always a fun thing to do as a group, not only to explore camp but also to grow camaraderie in the cabin. FACES Camp is always one of the best things I look forward to every year!

FACES Camp 2026 Hannah teaching her baking class.

Four years later, I was extremely grateful for the opportunity to go back to camp as a Junior Counselor. It felt amazing to come back to my home away from home and help give the campers the same amazing experience I had when I was a camper. 

Additionally, I was able to teach a stellar baking class where I taught the campers the basics of baking. It was a lot of fun, and it gave me the opportunity to let my baking skills shine through and teach the campers something that was once just a passion of mine, and is now a small business. 

I started making banana bread in December of 2023 when I decided to make bread for fun and share it with my family and friends. Then I turned it into a small business and find new recipes. I worked hard to tweak my recipes and make them special. I created a Facebook page and promoted my business.

Soon, I had orders pouring in and shipped my breads all over the country. During this journey, I quickly learned that when you’re finding a passion, practice does make perfect.  Just because something doesn't go the way you want doesn’t mean you have to give up – use it as an opportunity to learn from your mistakes, keep trying, and don’t stop until you’ve mastered it. 

FACES Camp 2022 Hannah's first time at camp, seen here with FACES Camp Director Ashley Rhodes.

If I could go back in time and give advice to my 14-year-old self, walking into camp for the first time, I would tell her to enjoy the week at FACES Camp and don’t be afraid to introduce yourself. Step out of your comfort zone, meet new friends, and try new things.

The friendships you make and the memories you make will stay with you for a lifetime. FACES Camp is truly my home away from home and helped me grow into the person that I am today!