Weekend Camp in Petra for Iraqis

The ancient city of Petra, visited by millions of tourists every year for its ancient history and architecture, was the site in May of a Questscope weekend camp for 50 displaced Iraqi boys. Day and night in their neighborhoods these boys try to keep out of sight and out of trouble.  Day and night in Petra were filled with soccer, scrambling over the breathtaking ruins, singing, dancing, eating and MORE soccer!

Petra was one of four Questscope sponsored camps in May involving 350 Iraqi boys and girls who participate in our weekly educational and mentoring programs.  Months of planning on national and local levels, as well as building relationships with each individual child preceded the camps. 

Camp affords extra time and opportunity to help traumatized children heal emotionally from years of loss—the loss of country, home, friends and family.  The extended time volunteers and staff spend with these children communicates to them their worth as individuals.  Camp activities help them gain a sense of achievement and community.

One boy’s experience summed up the whole event.  When he could not get to sleep, Questscope staff invited him to share a snack with them.  When he asked what the reason for camp was, our staff replied,  “You are the reason.”

Click on the images below to view pictures from the four camps: