Heartsmith's Summer Enrichment Program
Heartsmith's Summer Enrichment Program is a nature-based, social-emotional learning experience where children ages 6–11 can learn, grow, and play together within a supportive community.
Throughout the program, kids spend their days outdoors exploring the natural world, building friendships, and gaining confidence through hands-on experiences. Activities include gardening, wildlife observation, creative projects, cooperative games, and daily opportunities for exploration and discovery.
Each day includes time for reflection and journaling, encouraging children to build self-awareness, process emotions, celebrate accomplishments, and take pride in their personal growth.
We are proud to welcome guest educators and community partners throughout the program who share their knowledge and experiences in areas such as beekeeping, gardening, wildlife conservation, and environmental stewardship. These special visits help deepen children's understanding of the world around them while introducing them to positive role models within our community.
The program is offered free of charge to the families we serve, helping ensure that local children have access to meaningful summer enrichment opportunities regardless of financial circumstances.
As we continue to grow, our goal is to strengthen and expand the program year after year—creating lasting opportunities for children to connect with nature, build confidence, develop practical life skills, and experience the joy of learning alongside their peers.
This program is made possible through the generosity of community supporters, volunteers, local organizations, grant funding, and donors who believe in helping local children learn, grow, and play together.
Meet our Staff:
Cristina Heart
Founder of Heartsmith & Program Director
Cristina is the founder of Heartsmith and will serve as Program Director and one of the full-time counselors.
She has spent much of her life caring for children, families, and community members in one way or another.
Through both personal and community experience, Cristina has developed a deep passion for creating supportive, understanding spaces where children feel safe, valued, and encouraged to be themselves.
She has completed her Pennsylvania Child Abuse Clearances and has organized multiple community-centered programs and events through Heartsmith.
Heartsmith was created from the belief that everyone deserves a place where they can grow and thrive.
Lisa Girata
Full-Time Staff
Lisa has worked in early childhood for over 20 years and currently works as a Behavioral Health Technician here in Clarion County. She is passionate about supporting children and families and brings both experience and compassion to the program.
Lisa has completed her Pennsylvania Child Abuse Clearances and is Pediatric CPR Certified.
Outside of work, Lisa loves animals, nature, and spending time with horses, where she volunteers through a local ministry. She especially loves helping children connect with the outdoors and experience the joy of learning through nature.
In her own words:
“I’m a kid at heart!”