“I have never seen such a great group of individuals who work so well together and with the children. I think they should have their own television series! Everything and everyone was so positive, enthusiastic, and professional.” - Joyce Hampton, Student Teacher, Morris Elementary
“I have been involved with church camps, Centrifuge, Leadership Conference, and Boys State, and this has been -- by far -- the best staff I have ever been around in terms of professionalism, enthusiasm, competence, ability, and involvement.” - Chris Honeycutt, Teacher, Meadowview Elementary
“Exceptional! I’ve never seen a more dedicated, energetic, and caring group. Great job!” - Christopher Thomas, Teacher, The Altamont School
“This is my third year here, and it always amazes me that you can continue to find such a cadre of highly qualified and enthusiastic facilitators. They relate well with the kids from the start—a particularly difficult task when dealing with “jaded,” “experienced” (at least in their own minds) middle school students.” - Major Gary R. Leopold, Teacher, Academy for Arts and Academics
“I can’t imagine a better staff. I did not observe any “down time.” The children were their first concern the entire time. The program was age-appropriate and effective—a good mix of instruction and entertainment. The patriotic theme was most welcomed (and unexpected)!” - Jim Johnson, Teacher, The Altamont School
“There aren’t enough words to express how much I appreciate the staff. No matter what type of child they are presented with, they try to find the positive side of that child and help make that aspect of that child’s personality more accessible to all. You all have given these students wonderful memories to cherish.” - Debbie Foster, Teacher, Whitesburg Middle
“I especially loved spending time with such a caring, selfless staff. Observing their never-ending willingness to give renewed my own spirit and put things in perspective.” - Alicia D. Clark, Teacher, Williams Tech
“I would have been proud to have this staff serve as my subordinates or seniors in the Marine Corps.” - Harold Greenlee, Parent, Academy for Arts and Academics
“The staff put the children first through the whole camp experience. They built rapport with the students; built teams out of some very “contrary” students; continually supported each student’s growth in value judgments and examining their own character strengths and weaknesses.” - Myrna Miller, Teacher, Chapman Elementary
“I will hold most special the awe and reverence inspired in me at a group of people who give their precious time to a truly noble undertaking with obviously a small remuneration in dollars, but obviously great riches in human love.” - Danny Owen, Parent, Whitesburg Middle
“The staff is excellent with their variety of ages and personalities. Their character, courage, compassion, and commitment are self-evident.” - Carol Gaines, Counselor, Mt. Gap Middle
“I have enjoyed watching the staff interact with the students and each other and have been touched by how much they truly seem to care about others and the program in general. We need more teachers like them.” - Leigh Harrison, Teacher, Williams Tech
“The staff was excellent in all areas. They were genuinely devoted to their purpose and through their caring and honesty, were able to instill in the students a greater understanding of their government, their country, and their world.” - Randy Cruse, Parent, Mt. Gap Middle
"The passion and commitment of the staff was sincere and so evident. This allowed the kids to really open up. I was amazed how each group leader was able to understand the dynamics and individuality and needs of his/her group so quickly! Each child felt cared for and important." - Lesa Roberts, Teacher, Hampton Cove Middle School
"I cannot say enough about the Project American Life staff. If only we could staff all schools with people who obviously care about kids as much as you do!" - Suzanne Bailey, Parent, Mt. Gap Middle School
"The Project American Life staff was great. They are the most enthusiastic group of young people I have ever been around! I admire each one of them for wanting to make a difference in children's lives." - Mary Ann Walker, Parent, Eastwood Middle School
"I will hold most special they way each of you, along the way, were like Christ, giving my fragile student hope and encouragement, value and worth as he doesn't get that. I can't help but believe that the exultation he experienced last night at the fire will serve as a reminder in the future that he has a purpose and can live his dream." - Nanette Respess, Teacher, Morris Elementary
"The staff was incredible! They were so accommodating, compassionate, and caring. This is one of the many joys in coming to Project American Life year after year-renewing old friendships and creating new ones!" - David Mertzbacher, Teacher, Eastwood Middle School
"As always, the Project American Life staff gives 1000% into the program. In fact, I don't even think of it as a program at all-just a weeklong, building, spiraling adventure. Emily, I'm amazed at your humor, empathy and insight into the kids - can you come to school? Bigun, these boys need a daddy like you: respect and authority, grace when they make a mistake, compassion for those who are not able, and just being a man. Shaggy, Oh! Your lighthearted speech and spirit engages an insecure boy and hooks him. You play a king well but have the heart of your subjects. Brian, you are the seasoning and spice in the bunch, your boys love you and needed to see what good humor and fun looked like without the trash of the culture. Chris, you have amazed me over the years and just improve and change each year! It is always a treat to be with you and watch. Your leadership this week was so evident. Jamie, there are not enough words to express my gratitude for your tireless effort to develop your vision and His-you are His treasure and do make a difference, one child at a time." - Nanette Respess, Teacher, Morris Elementary
"Impressive Staff!!! What incredible role models. They believe in this program and it shows. I pray you have many blessings and triumphs as you continue to make a difference in each adolescent that attends Project American Life." - Vicky Lanza, Teacher, Hampton Cove Middle School
"The best thing about my group leader was that she didn't give up on us. She helped us conquer our fears." - Ava, 5th Grade
"My group leader (Bigun) helped us understand the important things in life." - Nicholas, 5th Grade
"I want to thank you for teaching me all the important things in life. I don't know how some kids could live without you and Project American Life. Thanks for spending time with me." - Brittanie, 5th Grade
“The best thing about my group leader is he always made us think.” - Katherine, 6th Grade
“Jamie and the counselors taught me to care about other people and not just myself.” - Sarah, 6th Grade
“This week I’ve learned to care and love other people. Jamie has influenced my life in many ways. This was a great experience and I hope to come back some day.” - Meaghan, 7th Grade
“My group leader was smart and respectful. He was someone you could look up to.” - Devante, 6th Grade
“My best experience was meeting all the people who where so nice to me. Project American Life is a place where you are cared for.” - Bethany
"Dear Project American Life Counselors: I miss you so much! I had such a good time! I'm going to come back every chance I get. I loved all your games because they taught me many important lessons that many people overlook. I love how you taught us things, and what you taught us. I'm going to miss you for a looooooog time. P.S. - I loved all the songs and other games that I get to take home and teach my friends!" Your friend, Kathryn, 6th Grade