One police officer’s heartfelt decision to help a young girl led to the creation of a summer camp that continues to change lives. School Resource Officer Angela Booker never anticipated that a small act of kindness would spark a big change. While working at Haynes Middle School in Nashville, Booker was close to one of her favorite students, Leah Kerchaval, a seventh grader with special needs. They shared a special bond, and Leah often called Booker “Auntie” or “Momma.” However, Booker noticed a shift when Leah started distancing herself and ignoring her questions about how she was doing.
The Heartfelt Reason Behind Leah’s Disappointment
When Booker asked Leah’s mother what was going on, she discovered the reason for the young girl’s hurt feelings. Leah was upset because her sister was attending a summer camp run by the Fraternal Order of Police, but Leah herself wasn’t invited. Her mother didn’t believe Leah would fit in at the police-run camp, and the teasing from her sister made things worse. “That really crushed Leah,” Booker shared, noting that Leah blamed her for not attending.
A Dream Becomes Reality: The Birth of T.E.A.M. 1 Camp
That moment planted a seed for something bigger in Booker’s heart. She realized there was a significant need for a summer camp specifically designed for girls with special needs. In 2018, Booker founded T.E.A.M. 1, a one-week day camp offering fun, education, and support for these girls. “I thought, I’ve got to do something to get all my babies together,” she explained, believing these girls deserved a camp of their own.
A Camp Made Possible by Passion and Dedication
The first year, Booker took on the enormous task of organizing and funding the camp herself. She handled everything from planning activities to recruiting volunteers and securing permission from Haynes Middle School. She even spent around $1,000 of her own money to provide food and materials for the campers. Despite the challenges, Booker was determined to create a memorable experience. The camp provided a full schedule of activities, including arts and crafts, sports, and even science and math exercises—subjects Booker noticed were often overlooked for girls with special needs in schools.
A Fun and Educational Experience for All
The campers’ days at T.E.A.M. 1 began with lessons on hygiene, prayer, and a hot breakfast. Throughout the day, they participated in a wide range of activities, such as arts and crafts, sports, and hands-on learning experiences. Booker also organized field trips to local wave pools and trampoline parks, where the girls could enjoy a day of fun, often at no cost to them. Booker shared how much she admired the girls, noting how they faced their challenges with courage and positivity. “They have some for-real challenges yet they have smiles on their faces like they don’t have a care in the world,” she said.
Community Support Grows for T.E.A.M. 1
The second year of the camp saw an outpouring of support from the community. Metro Police and Metro Schools contributed staff, food, and transportation. Local donors also pitched in by covering the cost of T-shirts and outings for the girls. Booker, who still volunteers over 100 hours of her own time to organize the camp, is deeply grateful for the generosity and kindness of everyone who has helped make the camp possible.
The Impact of T.E.A.M. 1 on the Community
The camp has not only been a positive experience for the girls, but also for Booker and the volunteers. Booker continues to stay in touch with Leah and her mother, who speaks highly of Booker’s kindness and the bond she shares with her daughter. “Leah is a sweet young lady,” her mother, Chequita Smith, said. “Her relationship with Officer Booker is what puts a smile on her face.”
A Continuing Legacy of Love and Support
T.E.A.M. 1 has become a symbol of what happens when one person’s compassion and dedication lead to real change. For Officer Angela Booker, it’s not just about running a camp—it’s about building a community of support for young girls with special needs and offering them an experience where they are seen, heard, and celebrated.
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