FREE ARTICLE — ASE' Extraordinary Kids Camps begin Monday

ASE' Extraordinary Kids Camps, a regional summer enrichment initiative 
based in Meadville is preparing to welcome students from across Franklin 
County and surrounding communities for what organizers describe as more 
than a camp experience — but a transformational opportunity designed 
to inspire, educate, and expose youth to new possibilities.

Founded and directed by Dr. Cassandra Tillman Vaughn, ASE' 
Extraordinary Kids Camps will begin June 1 in Meadville and serve youth 
ages 8–16 through hands-on educational and enrichment experiences 
focused on leadership, literacy, creativity, life skills, and career 
exploration.

Built around the philosophy "Expose Them to Everything," the camps 
seek to expand young minds and help students discover talents and 
interests that may shape their futures.

"Our children deserve opportunities that stretch their imagination and 
challenge them to see beyond what is familiar," Vaughn said. "ASE' 
is about helping them build confidence, discover gifts, and realize that 
the world is larger than what they may see every day."

Unlike traditional recreation-based camps, ASE' Extraordinary Kids 
Camps combines learning with memorable experiences. All camps are hosted 
in Meadville, creating a centralized and accessible setting for families 
seeking quality summer enrichment opportunities close to home. Camp 
offerings include programs centered around financial literacy, 
entrepreneurship, communication, swimming and CPR safety, American Sign 
Language, and creative arts designed to strengthen both academic and 
social development.

One of this summer's featured experiences is the Theatre Camp, led by 
Roishina Henderson of Greenwood Little Theatre. Henderson is a respected 
writer, storyteller, and theatre director who brings extensive creative 
experience and a passion for youth engagement to the program. A 
Greenwood native and former journalist with hundreds of published 
articles and multiple books to her credit, Henderson has helped bring 
compelling productions to life through her work with Greenwood Little 
Theatre, including directing and supporting performances that celebrate 
storytelling, culture, and community engagement.

Camp organizers say the theatre experience will help students strengthen 
reading, public speaking, creativity, teamwork, and self-confidence 
while learning the fundamentals of stage performance and storytelling.

"Arts exposure is powerful," Vaughn said. "Theatre teaches 
communication, discipline, empathy, and confidence — skills that 
benefit children long after the curtain closes."

Recognizing that meaningful enrichment opportunities are not always 
accessible to every family, ASE' Extraordinary Kids Camps is also 
offering scholarship opportunities for youth to attend.

Organizers describe the scholarships as an investment in children and 
families who may need additional support but still deserve access to 
high-quality summer programming.

"This is not simply childcare or something to fill the summer 
calendar," Vaughn said. "These camps are designed to be amazing life 
experiences — experiences that can spark dreams, build skills, expose 
children to new possibilities, and potentially change the trajectory of 
their lives."

As enrollment continues, ASE' Extraordinary Kids Camps hopes to become 
a regional model for youth enrichment while maintaining the personalized 
atmosphere and community focus that have become hallmarks of the 
program.

With camps beginning June 1 in Meadville and scholarship spaces 
available in limited numbers, families are encouraged to register early. 
For camp schedules, enrollment, or scholarship consideration, contact 
ASE' Extraordinary Kids Camps at 601-384-0219 or email 
aseglobal25@gmail.com. Families may also follow ASE' Extraordinary 
Kids Camps on Facebook for announcements and program updates.

Because extraordinary futures begin with extraordinary exposure.