Young people need positive, creative outlets for expressing ideas, feelings and thoughts - especially in these times. The arts provide this and at the same time enhance the joy of living.  Artistic exploration and education develops important life skills such as problem solving, imaging, discipline, inventiveness and resourcefulness.  Santa knows there is a gap in the availability of such experiences for many children and has therefore created these camps and program opportunities. To promote self-esteem, important life skills and joy for living in children by fostering a healthy outlet for their creativity. 

The arts are a vital part of the development of the “whole” person.  We are providing a high quality arts experience for any child in this area, especially those who may not otherwise have such an opportunity because of their financial situation.At Camp Pennyroyal, located in the picturesque Indian Valley District of Floyd County, Santa will host a small group of children and a highly skilled team of teachers who will guide the children through a variety of artistic disciplines.

Intensive, focused camps for 1-3 days will help children to experience how discipline, hard work and lots of encouragement can take their visions farther than they might have ever thought possible. 

The children will have the opportunity to try out a variety of arts forms.  Often children are talented in several areas, so we’ll help them explore the various possibilities for artistic expression.

We’ll provide healthy role models for the children by working along side of them.  Not just teaching them “how to do it.”  They’ll see how we do it.

We will avoid judging the child’s talents.  The children will progress as far as they individually can and choose to.  The overall goal is positive self-expression

A Multi-Media Educational Series

Santa, Mrs. Claus and other helpers are featured in videos, audio productions, books and live shows to teach important values and lessons in a fun and unique way. Some programs will also feature examples of how "extra-ordinary' people help others all around the world. Santa also promotes a better understanding of cultural diveristy. The first in a series of book and CD Christmas storeis, features "The Christmas Chair," as read by NPR's, Seth Williamson, along with the Reindeer Lullabies played by Santa on his flute and guitar.

Writing/Storytelling and Songwriting Retreats for Teens and Adults

These two different writing retreat’s for youth (age 11 – 18) and adults  emphasize the development of self-expression skills.  Participants will strengthen their ability to creatively face the many challenges in the world today.  A major focus is to give voice the many varying feelings and thoughts that need expression.  This is about gaining "clarity" and then actively processing what you discover.

Weekend retreats held at the Indian Valley Retreat Center will be offered to area churches, youth programs, organizations, groups, clubs, through schools and individuals. The Center will provide the teaching staff, equipment and technical assistance.  Participants will stay overnight and will participate in an intense yet highly creative, rewarding and fun process.

Anyone regardless of training or experience will benefit

Participants will:

Learn to develop writing skills for journals, poetry, and stories. 

Songwriting retreats will teach skills in developing original music.

Songwriters will perform or have performed and record their songs.  Everyone will have fun and be challenged as they get to know themselves and others better.

This is not
your usual Department Store Santa!