Honored and Inspired: Ashokan at the Imagination Gala

We’re honored!
Earlier this month, the Ashokan Center received the Community Partnership Award at the Imagination Gala – High Rollers on the Hudson, hosted by our amazing friends at MyKingstonKids.

We’re proud to partner with an organization that champions creativity, equity, and joy for the children and families of Kingston. Through programs like our Art & Adventure Summer Camp, we’ve had the privilege of welcoming young people to Ashokan’s forests and streams—inviting them to explore, create, and connect with nature.

Thank you, MyKingstonKids, for this meaningful recognition—and for the vital work you do every day to uplift and inspire your community.

A Moment to Remember

One of the most moving moments of the night came when Melody Jones, took the stage to share a poem written in honor of the Ashokan Center. Her words captured the spirit of what we strive to create—a place of welcome, wonder, and transformation.

Here is Melody’s beautiful poem, shared with her permission:

June 12, 2025

“From a Happy Camper’s Mom”

By Melody Campbell

In the heart of Kingston, where dreams take flight,

There’s a spark that shines so beautifully bright.

It lives in the laughter, the songs, and the cheers,

In a child’s adventure, and a mom’s grateful tears.

MyKingstonKids, how do I say,

You’ve given my son the gift of play.

Not just games, but growth in disguise,

With open arms under open skies.

At Ashokan’s woods, where the tall trees sway,

He learns and he laughs the entire day.

From canoeing to dancing, from film to hikes,

He finds new courage, and joy that spikes.

He comes home glowing, stories in hand,

Of new friends made and castles of sand.

Of how he climbed or how he led,

Of melodies sung and nature he tread.

He names each friend with hugs so wide,

With pride in his step and light in his stride.

He says, “Mom, I’m brave—I did it alone!”

And that confidence—my heart has grown.

So donors, take this moment in—

You’re helping our children learn, laugh, and win.

Your dollars stretch far, beyond what you see,

You’re planting the roots of who they will be.

I remember my own summers long ago,

How camp changed me, helped me grow.

Now my son has his story too,

Thanks to the kindness that flows through you.

From a single mom with a thankful soul,

This camp gives more than just a goal.

It gives a chance to live, to explore,

To feel seen, valued, and so much more.

So tonight I honor you with rhyme and grace,

For creating such a magical place.

Thank you, MyKingstonKids and Ashokan too—

For the joy, the hope, and all that you do.

You’re not just building campers—you’re shaping tomorrow’s

leaders too.

 

Melody’s words remind us why we do what we do. The magic of Ashokan is made possible by the community that surrounds and supports us—and we’re deeply grateful.

Thank you again to MyKingstonKids, to Melody, and to everyone who helps bring learning to life through nature, history, music, and art.