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October 2-3, 2025 | EO Regional Workforce + Child Development Hub

EO’s mission is to research, pilot, and scale innovative solutions so that people and communities can thrive.

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As the needs of Southwest Virginians change, so too do the best practices for meeting those needs.

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Join us in our fight for our friends and neighbors in Southwest Virginia by exploring the options below.

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Together, we can create endless opportunities for our region to thrive.

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Exploring careers, engaging in hands-on learning, and sparking curiosity!

Week-long summer camps for children ages 6 - 12.

June 9-13, June 16-20, June 23-27, July 7-11, and July 14-18

What are EO's Career Discovery Camps?

Career Discovery Camp for ages 6-12 will be centered around career exploration, collaboration, communication skills, critical thinking, and curiosity. It will provide campers with hands-on learning experiences that inspire creativity and growth. Through engaging field trips, interactive presentations, and dynamic activities, campers will develop problem-solving skills, teamwork, and a deeper understanding of various career paths while having fun and discovering new interests. 

Each camp is $100 (includes snacks, field trips, and all camp materials). Each camp will run from 8:30 am - 3:00 pm, with drop-off beginning at 7:45 am and pick-up available until 5:30 pm.

Check out the dates and programming for each week below!

Campers will dive into the world of STEM with hands-on experiences and exciting activities. They will explore science and technology at the Hands-On Museum, cool off at The Meadows Splash Pad, and engage in interactive sessions featuring Lego kits, GOTec, VDOT, and CGI presentations, and career exploration in IT, AI, coding, and more. Field Trips: Hands-on Museum and The Meadows Splash Pad


Thank you to our cause partner, Jones Road & Bridge, for being the presenting partner for this camp!

Campers will explore how healthcare impacts every aspect of our lives through hands-on demonstrations led by community partners such as Mountain Empire Community College, King University, and local healthcare professionals. They will also visit a nursing simulation lab and the MedFlight 2 Hangar at VA Highlands Airport. Campers will gain a deeper understanding that caring for health goes beyond a hospital visit.


Thank you to our cause partner, King University, for partnering with us on this camp!

Campers will explore the world of public works and how folks in that field keep our communities running. Campers will participate in hands-on demonstrations from local public service professionals, including Appalachian Electric Power and the Abingdon Police Department. They will also visit the Virginia Department of Transportation Bristol campus. These experiences will show how these roles support the community and serve the public.

Campers will get a hands-on look at agriculture with tours of a greenhouse, a local farm, and the VDOT lab. They’ll also enjoy up-close encounters with farm animals and participate in engaging presentations and activities led by local farmers and agriculture specialists, gaining insight into the world of farming and sustainability.

Field Trips: Tour a Greenhouse and a Local Farm and VDOT Lab

Campers will immerse themselves in the performing and visual arts with a trip to see Reluctant Dragon at Barter Theatre. The week will feature art classes led by local artists, an Instrument Petting Zoo, cultural activities, theatre and dance classes, and hands-on performing arts experiences. Campers will also enjoy a visit to The Meadows Splash Pad, making for a fun and creative week.

Field Trips: Barter to see Reluctant Dragon and The Meadows Splash Pad

Thank you to our Cause Partners!

The following organizations are foundational to our Career Discovery Camps, and we are thankful for their support!

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Volunteer with Us!

EO Career Commons is looking for enthusiastic and dedicated volunteers to help bring our summer camp to life for children ages 6–12!

We are welcoming:

  • Junior Camp Counselors (ages 16–17) — A great opportunity for teens who enjoy working with kids, want to build leadership skills, and make a positive impact in their community.
  • Adult Volunteers (ages 18+) — Join our camp team to lead fun, hands-on activities and weekly themed events that introduce kids to exciting career paths.

This is perfect for those who love working with children, enjoy a creative and energetic environment, and want to help shape bright futures. Research shows that volunteers play a vital role in youth development and mental health by fostering safe, supportive relationships that build confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging.

Be a part of something special this summer—join us!

Career Discovery Camp Volunteers

Requirements: All volunteers must complete the online volunteer registration form, submit a signed volunteer waiver, and pass a background check, which will be provided and processed by EO. Junior Camp Counselors (ages 16-17) must submit a volunteer waiver signed by a Parent/Guardian.

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