June 18, 2026
Summer brings a welcome break from the routines of school, but the excitement of time off can quickly give way to boredom. Finding engaging activities is not always easy, and many options can be costly. That is where ICompete provides a valuable solution.
Established in 2006, ICompete has been serving families in the Palatine community by introducing underserved youth to athletics, arts, and academic opportunities. By removing barriers to participation, the program helps children build confidence, discover new interests, and develop skills that prepare them for future success. Through a collaborative partnership between Palatine Park District, Palatine High School, Township of Palatine, Community Consolidated School District 15, and the Palatine Police Department, ICompete continues to create opportunities that positively impact children and families throughout the year.
“ICompete helps introduce families to organized programming at little or no cost,” said Rachel Lara, ICompete Program Coordinator. “We often meet parents who want their children to be involved in activities but are unsure where to start or may not have the financial means or resources to access those opportunities. Through ICompete, families can explore a variety of programs, discover their children’s interests, and gain access to experiences that might otherwise be out of reach.”
According to Lara, the impact extends far beyond the activities themselves.
“One of the greatest benefits is the sense of community that develops through the program,” she said. “Families connect with others who share similar experiences, build meaningful relationships, and become part of a supportive network. At the same time, children gain confidence, develop new skills, and discover interests that can shape their future.”
Lara said one of the most rewarding aspects of ICompete is watching children grow with the program over the years.
“We are committed to providing high-quality programs, events, and experiences that positively impact children and their families,” she said. “It’s incredible to see a child start in one of our 4-5 year-old classes and continue participating through their preteen years.”
One family that has benefited from ICompete’s services is Ruben and Maria Bogoeva and their children Kevin, Oliver, Maverick, and youngest, Gloria.
According to Maria Bogoeva, the family first became involved in ICompete in 2021 when her oldest son was 6 years old. “When the school year was over, I worried about what my oldest son would be doing during the summer,” Bogoeva said. “I didn’t know what programs or camps were available nearby that weren’t too expensive. One day I was talking with my friend Selene and asked her what she had planned for her kids during the summer. She told me about the ICompete Summer Camp. “
Since then the Bogoeva children have participated in many ICompete programs.
“My kids have tried almost every program offered and enjoyed every single one of them,” she said. “They’ve participated in dance classes, sports clinics, dance clinics, lock-ins, music and art camp, teen nights, and summer camp. My oldest son is now attending Future Leaders and is very upset that this year is his last year to attend summer camp because of his age. Summer camp is their favorite.”
“While Gloria has participated in several of our programs for children ages 4–5 and attended many of our special events, she is now old enough to take part in our year-round program offerings!” Lara explained. “This summer will be especially exciting, as it will be her first year attending summer camp.”
Summer camp fosters independence, builds resilience, and encourages social-emotional growth. Children can step out of their comfort zones, develop lifelong friendships, and engage in physical activities outdoors.
At ICompete, summer camp has long been one of the most anticipated programs of the year.
“ICompete offers a unique camp experience through collaborations with community partners and generous donors,” Lara said. “Summer camp is important because it reaches families who are looking for something fun and engaging for their children, but also affordable, which is why all families must meet our income eligibility guideline chart. We are primarily a field trip-based summer camp setting us apart from other camps. These opportunities allow campers to visit places they might not otherwise have the chance to see or visit. Beyond field trips, the camp includes family engagement nights, creating opportunities for families to spend quality time together. These evenings help strengthen relationships among family members while also fostering connections between families and our staff.”
Bogoeva is quick to praise the ICompete programs and staff.
“They have the best camp ever,” she said. “My kids enjoy every single place they visit because they are creating lifetime memories and relationships. The programs teach them to share, be kind, respectful and be responsible especially for the younger ones.“
For families who have not yet experienced ICompete, Bogoeva highly recommends giving it a try.
“It’s very affordable, the programs are excellent, and the kids will have a great time,” she said. “And the staff – their personalities are unique, warm, and welcoming. They’re great people to be around and outstanding role models for our kids.”
For families like the Bogoevas, ICompete has become much more than a summer program – it has become a source of opportunity, growth, and connection. Whether children are exploring a new sport, discovering a creative talent, building friendships, or experiencing places they may never have visited otherwise, ICompete helps create lasting memories and meaningful experiences.
As another summer gets underway, the program continues its mission of ensuring that every child, regardless of financial circumstances, has the chance to learn, grow and thrive in a supportive community.
