Summer at the Lake: Where Futures Begin | Casa del Lago
Children reading together by the lake

Summer at the Lake: Where Futures Begin

Help Prevent the Summer Slide for Children in Bachman Lake

The Challenge We Face

Only 22.7% of third graders in our neighborhood are reading at grade level. Without continued support, many of these children fall even further behind during summer break.

The "summer slide" disproportionately affects students in under-resourced communities—and the long-term consequences can be profound.

Students reading in a classroom setting

That's where Summer at the Lake makes a difference.

Our program is designed to prevent learning loss and foster growth during the critical summer months.

What We Do

Children participating in summer activities

Casa del Lago's Summer at the Lake is a five-week, faith-centered summer reading program that supports more than 100 elementary students each year—equipping them to grow academically, spiritually, and emotionally.

Through literacy instruction, swim lessons, STEM activities, Bible stories, and mentorship from high school leaders in our Summer Youth Corps, campers build confidence, improve reading skills, and experience the joy of learning.

Stories of Transformation

From Reluctance to Transformation: Carlos's Story

When Carlos's mom, Lisandra, encouraged him to attend Summer at the Lake, he wasn't sure. He didn't know anyone. He wasn't interested in reading. He felt unsure.

But Carlos showed up. And everything began to change.

By the end of the summer, Carlos was reading alongside younger campers, asking thoughtful questions about Bible stories, and walking into camp each morning with renewed confidence.

"He's more confident. He talks about what he's learning. He believes he can learn now." — Lisandra, Carlos's mom
Your gift helps children like Carlos discover a love for reading and learning about Jesus.
Carlos reading with a younger student

Youth Leaders Making a Difference: Vanessa's Story

Vanessa joined the Summer Youth Corps to give back—but she left changed herself.

As a teen mentor, Vanessa led reading groups, helped guide classroom activities, and became a trusted role model to campers like Carlos. Along the way, she discovered her own voice, leadership abilities, and purpose.

"I came to give, but I didn't expect how much I'd grow." — Vanessa
Your support helps develop young leaders who mentor the next generation.

The Impact You Make

93% of assessed students maintained or improved their reading skills
35 high school students served as mentors and counselors
100+ elementary students participated in last year's program

What Our Community Says

"Summer at the Lake has transformed how our students approach reading. We see the difference when they return to school in the fall." — Maria Gonzalez, Elementary School Teacher
"The program builds more than reading skills—it builds community leaders and confident learners." — James Thompson, Community Partner

Take Action

Together, we can help children and youth in Bachman Lake read, grow, and thrive—this summer and beyond.

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