Today we’d like to introduce you to Kellie Thomas.
Hi Kellie, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
As a youth development visionary, I am fueled by a passion for helping children elevate and thrive in life. My Great-Great-Grandfather, J.R.E. Lee served as the third president of Florida A&M University (FAMU) and also founded the National Association of Colored Teachers. My Great-Grandfather, Dr. Joseph Thomas was a pioneering entrepreneur and philanthropist that developed Turners Station of Baltimore, MD! With that being said I come from four generations of passionate educators, entrepreneurs, activists, and philanthropists… it’s no wonder why youth and community development are my first love!
With 15 years of experience in youth development, I apply my research from the education sector, cognitive and behavioral psychology, and adolescent development to create a unique, fun interactive learning environment to engage children. I love what I do; witnessing laughter, chosen learning, and growth from children are my inspiration. I feel as if youth camp experiences needed to be redefined. Camp should be the ultimate “Can’t-Wait” experience full of enlightenment, community, and extraordinary fun!
As the Owner of Camps by KT, I strive to educate and nurture children to become well-rounded individuals through educational, and fun hands-on experiences that cultivate, and inspire creativity. I am on a mission to empower children and teenagers to grow physically, mentally, and emotionally so that they may achieve their version of success; one camp week at a time!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Prepare for the long haul, the rise and fall, and let neither define your sense of self; is what I always remind myself whenever struggle presents itself.
Camps by KT started with only eight campers; small but mighty. We remained resilient providing quality and excellence. “Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.” – Arthur Ashe. With that mindset, Camps by KT grew, one camp week at a time!
I have realized that you constantly have to put yourself in your camper’s, family’s and staff’s shoes in order to provide the best experience.
“There is no such thing as a self-made man. You will reach your goals only with the help of others.” – George Shinn. I have been fortunate to have a community of families, friends, and staff that greatly support Camps by KT; especially my Illuminating Fireflies, and Poised Pineapples families! It has taken a village to expand the “Camps by KT” brand. For that, I am overwhelmingly thankful! Attorney and consultant LaMonica Love of The Love Law Group and Consulting Services broadened my perspective of the potential of Camps by KT. With her guidance, I realized the growth opportunities! With that being said there have been many struggles; however with me maintaining the confidence, and values of Camps by KT, and having a support system I have been able to navigate through the challenges, and struggles gracefully.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
You’ve got to experience it to believe it! We have been providing innovative, and fun day camps since 2007! Proudly serving two locations in Sugar Land and Missouri City!
Camps by KT is an engaging youth day camp program designed for children to learn in a fun, and inspirational way. We have curated a well-rounded program that allows youth to grow, bond, and go through a self-discovery journey. At Camps by KT, we are all about having fun, new experiences, community, laughter, and educational fun.
Camps by KT offer Empowerment, Public Speaking, Arts, Science, Engineering, Culinary, Physical Activity, and of course FUN, FUN, and FUN! Knowing the importance of our youth’s understanding of the many elements that the world has to offer, we have decided to create a program that is not only fun but also a powerful movement of awareness for our youth. Each entity of Camps by KT has been curated by professionals in each field. We have tremendous support from our very own speech therapist (Angela Pope), engineer (Darrelyn Smith), culinarian (Chef Bland), science educator (Sherry Collings), and primary educator (Shardia Barber); to cultivate a fun and educational learning. Our support inspires little minds to do BIG things with unique experiences, positive influence, and motivation!
We strive to equip youth with diverse skills that empower them to navigate life’s unchartered territories and thrive. Another amazing contribution of Camps by KT is the Teen Leadership programs that we host. We provide teens with mentorship, leadership opportunities, and so much more. It is very refreshing for Camps by KT to be a part of the growth of our youth!
What does success mean to you?
To live my imagination, and give it away to as many people as possible in one lifetime.
For me, success means staying true to the vision and values of Camps by KT. As long as my day camp program continues to foster joy, celebration, community, elevation, and inspiration, then Camps by KT is on the road to success. Happy campers, happy families, and happy staff!
Success is about CONFIDENCE and the POSITIVE IMPACT that you contribute to the world. My goal is to surround the youth with all things that influence greatness!
Contact Info:
- Email: kellie@campsbykt.com
- Website: www.com
- Instagram: @campsbykt
- Facebook: @campsbykt
- Twitter: @campsbykt
- LinkedIn: @camps-by-kt
Image credits: Sasha Q Photography
