ABOUT
MISSION
Our mission is to spark a lifelong love of learning Spanish through an immersive, inclusive, and culturally vibrant experience. We bring together children from all backgrounds—those discovering Spanish for the first time and those who speak it at home—to learn through spirited, hands-on activities that celebrate language and culture. Guided by bilingual educators, our campers grow as confident Spanish speakers and culturally curious learners who build connection, creativity, and community.
PROGRAM
¡Viva Verano! is a Spanish immersion summer camp in Philadelphia for children ages 5–12 that combines engaging cultural experiences with intentional Spanish instruction. Our program is designed so children are not just surrounded by Spanish, but are actively taught the language in clear, age-appropriate ways. Campers are grouped by age and proficiency level and guided by experienced bilingual educators who blend structured instruction with hands-on activities inspired by Latin American and Caribbean cultures, including art, music, movement, food, and storytelling. Older campers participate in a Model UN–style experience conducted in Spanish, with activities thoughtfully adapted to support each proficiency level—helping New Learners build understanding through bilingual instruction, while Understanders and Confident Speakers deepen fluency through Spanish-forward discussion, collaboration, and problem-solving. Through this balanced approach, children build vocabulary, strengthen comprehension, and gain confidence using Spanish in meaningful, real-world ways.
FOUNDERS
Keisha Usher-Martin &
Melissa Ramos
¡Viva Verano! was created from a deep love of language, culture, and connection. We believe learning Spanish is more than vocabulary — it’s about discovering the stories, rhythms, and traditions that shape who we are. Through art, music, food, and movement, children learn not just to speak Spanish, but to live it with joy and curiosity.
Across Latin America, the stories we inherit often celebrate unity while overlooking the Indigenous and African roots that truly define our cultures. At ¡Viva Verano!, we choose to celebrate those roots — to honor the voices, wisdom, and creativity that have always been part of our shared identity. By weaving these legacies back into how we teach Spanish and play, we guide children see the fullness of Latin America’s beauty and strength.
Keisha Usher-Martin
Keisha Usher-Martin
Keisha Usher-Martin
Our Values
Belonging
Every child deserves to feel seen, valued, and celebrated for who they are.
Cultural Pride
We honor the voices, histories, and traditions of Indigenous, African, and European communities.
Joyful Learning
We believe the best learning happens through play, creativity, and curiosity.
Connection
Language is our bridge—to one another, to our roots, and to the broader world.
Our Promise
No matter their level, every child will experience growth and joy in communicating "en Español"—discovering what it truly means to Learn Spanish. Live the Culture + Love Every Moment!