Pecometh Story: Norman Oliver and the Power of Giving Back

Norman Oliver: Giving Back

Some places stay with you long after you leave. Pecometh is one of those places. It’s a camp where friendships form, confidence grows, and unforgettable memories are made. For Norman Oliver and his siblings, Pecometh was more than just a summer escape—it was a life-changing experience.

Growing up in Wilmington, Norman and his family were introduced to Pecometh through Neighborhood House, an organization that helps children attend camp. For five or six summers, they returned, eager to dive into the next adventure. Sure, they were nervous at first—who wouldn’t be? But year after year, Pecometh became their summer home.

Norman’s Pecometh memories are filled with the simple joys of childhood—swimming in the river, canoeing with friends, staying up in the cabins, and laughing until it hurt. But one experience stood out above the rest.

Pecometh was the first place where Norman saw true integration in action. In a time when the world was still learning what it meant to come together, Pecometh was already there—Black and white campers sharing cabins, playing side by side, and worshiping together. Without realizing it at the time, those summers prepared Norman for the diverse world he would step into in high school and beyond.

For years, Norman has proudly shared his love for Pecometh, calling it a blessing in his life. He never felt like an outsider—always welcomed, always valued. And when he and his siblings returned for a visit last summer, the memories came rushing back. It was as if they had never left.

But Norman didn’t just revisit Pecometh—he gave back.

In honor of three incredible women who shaped his camp experience, he made a donation to the Pecometh Campership Fund. His hope? That kids today—especially those who might not otherwise have the chance—can experience the same joy, growth, and belonging that he did.

“They were blessed from the bottom of their hearts,” Norman said of his family’s time at camp. Now, he wants to pass that blessing on.

Norman’s story is a beautiful reminder of how camp can change lives, not just for a summer, but for a lifetime. His generosity will help ensure that more children, no matter their background, get to experience the magic of Pecometh.

Thank you, Norman, for your laughter, your memories, and your generosity. Your story is proof that Pecometh isn’t just a place—it’s a community, a family, and a legacy of love that keeps growing.

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