Children and families have always been at the heart of what inspires North Catasauqua resident Cherie Gebhardt, so directing the summer youth program at the borough park is a perfect fit.

For more than 17 years, Gebhardt has been involved with borough activities as a member of the recreation committee and as a member of the borough council.

"I remember when we bought a house in North Catty," she says." One of my husband's best friends suggested to me that I think about joining the rec committee. I have always been family oriented and kid oriented and I have tried to do whatever we could for those causes on the rec committee."

Her effervescent personality, frankness and steady work ethic work to her advantage.

On summer weekday mornings from mid-June through mid-August, Gebhardt focuses her attention on the North Catasauqua Youth Morning Program, for children ages 5 to12.

The program planned by Gebhardt and her staff consists of crafts, games and special activities.

"I have a teaching background, but I didn't finish my degree," Gebhardt says. "But a high percentage of my counselors are teachers. We tend to follow a certain format that is structured and it proves to be effective with the children. In all my years on the committee, this is probably the tightest knit group we have had and we work very well together."

In the past, the free program, sponsored by the rec committee with some support from the borough, has attracted as many as 50 children. Currently, the numbers have lowered to the high 30s and low 40s. However, Gebhardt still believes the combination of physical activities and craft projects is an effective mix. Despite the draw of the Internet world, the old school arts and crafts program continues to keep the campers' attention.

Children today still appreciate and arts program where they can be creative, she says.

"They have a quiet time where they can create a number of things and they still enjoy it. It takes them away from a video game or playing on the Internet," she says. "The program is still an effective one and it provides them with a physical and mental challenge."

One of her staff members, Michelle Hazzard, who is also a borough council member, admires Gebhardt's enthusiasm.

"Cherie has always done whatever she can to make this work," she says. "It is a great opportunity for the children to have fun and learn at the same time."

One of the challenges for Gebhardt has been what she describes as "social issues" hovering over the program.

"We have had an issue where a parent does not want their child's picture taken," said Gebhardt. "We also have to be careful with the release of the child after the day is over. We have parents and grandparents who are picking up the children. It is a different world today than it used to be, so we have to be very careful."

While the program has concluded for the year, Gebhardt plans to continue to provide a venue for summer fun and learning in North Catasauqua in the future.

"This is a good program and I'm always glad to see the smiles from the children and the families," she says. "We'll work to keep moving it forward."