Inuvik (Aug 18/06) - Estelle Pielak has been enjoying her third summer season working with youth in the community.

Pielak is the day camp co-ordinator for Ingamo Hall. She was promoted this summer after three years working as a counsellor.

Estelle Pielak, back, is the co-ordinator for the Ingamo Hall summer day camp. She has been with the camp for the past three summers. The camp has been keeping the youth busy, with frequent visits to the Inuvik greenhouse. The youth include, from left, Keane and Alison McDonald, Chloe Larocque, Delaney Elias and Liam Larocque. - Dez Loreen/NNSL photo

"I had enough experience for the new job. They offered it to me earlier this summer," said Pielak.

The job is good for her because taking care of younger people has been something Pielak is used to.

"I've done a lot of babysitting and looking after kids," she said.

"The job here is another good way to work with people."

Pielak applied for the position three years ago and has come back every summer since.

"I saw the job as a good way to earn some money and do something I enjoy," she said.

Her day begins at 9 a.m. when the kids for the camp program arrive at Ingamo Hall.

"We get the day started with some indoor activities, like crafts," explained Pielak.

A light snack is prepared for the group, which includes some fruit and juice.

Keeping the youth active is one of the camp's goals and sports programs are offered as well.

"We spend some time in the mornings outside kicking a ball around, or playing baseball," said Pielak.

Walking trips are also made around town, ranging from hiking the Boot Lake trails to visiting local organizations.

"We've visited places like the RCMP station and the fire hall," said Pielak.

The community greenhouse is one of the daily stops on the tour.

The 17-year-old is entering her Grade 11 year at Samuel Hearne this fall. She plans on being a nurse in a few years, but wants to concentrate on school first.

"I'll start thinking more about nursing in Grade 12. First I want to upgrade," she said.