55 WWW.CHARLESTONWOMENPODCAST.COM | WWW.READCW.COM | WWW.INSTAGRAM.COM/CHARLESTONWOMEN That simple joy sparked a bigger idea — why not create a summer camp where more kids could experience the excitement of cheerleading? Cheer Buddies Summer Camp was born from this entrepreneurial spirit. The program offers young children an introduction to competitive cheerleading basics including motions, jumps, beginner tumbling and simple routines. What makes the camp unique is its peer-to-peer approach — Cate and her fellow 12-year-old cheerleaders share their knowledge with younger participants. While the instructors may be young, their enthusiasm is infectious. They focus on creating an inclusive environment where every camper feels welcomed and encouraged, regardless of skill level. The goal isn't perfection — it's building confidence and having fun. For Cate, the most rewarding moments come when campers master new skills. "You can see their confidence grow every single day," she explains. Each week concludes with a performance for families, complete with awards for every participant. Cheer Buddies represents more than a summer activity — it showcases how young people can identify needs in their community and take action. Cate's camp proves that age doesn't limit entrepreneurial spirit or the ability to make a positive impact. CHARLESTON WOMEN BUILDING CONFIDENCE ONE CHEER AT A TIME Cate Gigis' summer dream BY BLAKE GRANT At just 12 years old, Cate Gigis spotted an opportunity in her neighborhood and turned it into something special. When she began teaching basic cheerleading moves to two younger girls during the school year, she discovered something powerful: her love for the sport could inspire others. "It was so much fun watching them learn," Cate says. Women in the Making For registration information, visit the Cheer Buddies Summer Camp website at cheerbuddiescamp.my.canva.site. 843-509-8387 TeresaJonesFineArt.com teresa-jones@comcast.net “Moon dance” Teresa Jones Fine Art 30 x 30 Original Oil Represented by Lowcountry Artists Gallery 148 East Bay Street Charleston, SC
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