MIRAMAR, Fla. – This summer, more than 75 at risk-youth in Miramar had the opportunity to attend camp, thanks to a generous donation from Sunbeam Properties and the Miramar Park of Commerce.
Campers recently gathered for the end of summer party during a fun-filled day with activities, music, food and an animal show from the nonprofit Wild Animal World.
Hangin’ with 5-0 is a six-week summer program held annually in Miramar for students ages 11 to 15. Every summer, campers are identified by their school’s resource officer and guidance counselor to participate, enjoying field trips, sports and other activities throughout the camp session. Field trips included excursions to the movies, bowling alley, Hollywood Beach, Galaxy Skateway roller skating rink, Zoo Miami, Billie Swamp Safari and Kabooms Amusement Center. Each day, breakfast and lunch also were served.
Five years ago, the Hangin’ with 5-0 program was scheduled to be eliminated due to budget cuts, but Sunbeam Properties stepped in to help save the program. “This is such an important program, as it fulfills an unmet need in our community,” said Maridee Bell, vice president of Sunbeam Properties, developer of the Miramar Park of Commerce. “Our support of the program is a tradition, and we are proud to sponsor a camp that fosters education and camaraderie while providing a safe and fun environment for local teens to enjoy.”
City of Miramar Police Officer and Miramar Police Athletic League Executive Director Scott Hadley oversees the Hangin’ with 5-0 program. “We thank Sunbeam Properties and the Miramar Park of Commerce for all they do to support Hangin’ with 5-0 each year,” said Hadley. “This program gives at-risk youth the opportunity to enjoy a fun-filled summer that enables them to learn, grow and live up to their full potential.”
In addition to Hangin’ with 5-0, Sunbeam Properties and Miramar Park of Commerce tenants support many community activities, including Habitat for Humanity. The Park also has been the site for supply drives for America’s Moms for Soldiers and a food drive for the United Way of Broward County, orchestrated by Sunbeam Properties.