From August 18 to 22, members of the AYLUS Morris Branch joined forces with CSBase, a nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding access to computer science education, to help host an exciting summer camp at the local Library. CSBase is a student-led initiative that designs hands-on programs such as workshops, camps, and hackathons to inspire young learners to discover coding, robotics, and other STEM-related fields. Since its founding, the nonprofit has reached students across New Jersey and beyond, empowering them to learn essential digital skills in an engaging, collaborative environment. This mission closely aligns with the goals of the AYLUS Morris Branch, making the partnership at this camp a natural and impactful collaboration.
The weeklong camp attracted 120 enthusiastic students, making it one of the largest youth-focused educational events of the summer in the local area. With a curriculum designed to accommodate multiple skill levels, participants explored three major areas of programming: Scratch, Python, and Java. Scratch classes introduced beginners to block-based programming, encouraging creativity as students developed stories, animations, and simple games. For students ready to take the next step, Python workshops offered an introduction to text-based coding, guiding them through projects like calculators, interactive applications, and basic data tasks that strengthened logical thinking and problem-solving skills. For advanced learners, Java sessions provided a deeper understanding of object-oriented programming, allowing students to work on coding structures that connect directly to real-world applications.
AYLUS Morris Branch members played a vital supporting role throughout the camp. In addition to helping with classroom activities, they guided students between sessions, supported small group learning, and encouraged collaboration among participants. Their involvement helped ensure that the camp ran smoothly and that every student received personal guidance and encouragement. By working alongside CSBase instructors and mentors, AYLUS volunteers not only contributed to the success of the program but also gained valuable experience in leadership, communication, and community service.
The impact of the camp was evident by the end of the week. Many students completed their first-ever coding projects, proudly showcasing what they had created while building confidence in their abilities. For some, the camp sparked an interest in pursuing computer science more seriously in school and beyond. For others, it provided a fun introduction to technology in a supportive, non-intimidating setting. The program also fostered collaboration and teamwork, as students worked in groups, shared ideas, and learned from each other’s approaches.
For the AYLUS Morris Branch, participation in the CSBase camp was not only an opportunity to serve but also a chance to further its mission of giving back to the community while promoting STEM education. The success of the camp highlighted the power of partnerships between youth-led organizations and nonprofits like CSBase, as well as the importance of providing accessible, engaging opportunities for young people to explore technology. As students left the camp with new skills and excitement for computer science, both CSBase and AYLUS volunteers could take pride in knowing that they had played a role in inspiring the next generation of innovators.
Volunteers:
6 hours: Kelly Nie (8/18, 8/19, 8/20 1pm – 3pm)
4 hours: Shirley Nie (8/19, 8/20 1pm – 3pm)
Advisors:
Xue Gu
Linna Wang