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Teams from the National Fellowship of Child Care Executives, an organization of 68 children's homes in the United States, are competing on campus in the National Children's Home Olympics (“H'Olympics”) this weekend. Founded in 1991, when The Children's Home of Easton served as the host agency, the H'Olympics features students who have earned their way not only by athletic ability, but also good behavior, grades, and attendance at practice sessions for the games. They are residing on campus.
“The purpose of the H'Olympics is to foster greater self-esteem, teamwork, positive approaches to competition and sportsmanship, and to give the children the opportunity to travel to other parts of the country and fellowship with other athletes,” according to the Children's Home of Easton. “It is for many of our children the first and perhaps only occasion to travel outside of the local area. It is a one-time opportunity for fellowship and camaraderie for those who earn their way.”
States represented in the H'Olympic Games include Arizona, New Jersey, Vermont, Maine, Texas, Missouri, and Pennsylvania.
In its first year, nine children's homes participated with about 200 athletes. This year, nearly 400 athletes from 20 homes are expected to attend. Kirby Sports Center will host basketball, volleyball, and swimming competitions, while Fisher Field will be the venue for track and field. Softball will be the only off-campus event.
The Children's Home of Easton was founded in 1885 as The Easton Home for Friendless Children, and was initially connected with the Philadelphia Aid Society before becoming an independent institution. In 1921, a new 38-acre location was dedicated, by which time the name had been changed to The Children's Home of Easton. This site remains the present campus. In 1960, the program switched from an orphanage to a residential treatment home for emotionally disturbed children. Its main campus houses as many as 50 children ages eight through 18. A satellite group and foster homes accommodate an additional 70 children, and an emergency shelter, The Acopian Center, provides short-term crisis intervention and housing for up to 24 children.