Last week marked the start of PCA – Tampa Bay’s Character Development Program in summer camps with Hillsborough County Parks & Recreation. This is the fourth summer the two organizations have partnered to deliver programming aimed at elementary and middle school-aged children. The program will reach over 1,100 youth and will focus on PCA’s key principles of mastery, growth mindset, emotional intelligence and goal setting.

Coaches and staff trained in PCA’s Double-Goal Coach® curriculum will lead daily lessons, activities, and group discussions throughout the camps’ schedules to help youth understand how to apply the program’s principles at camp, home, school and in the community.

“Outstanding character is not something that is achieved overnight,” said Rick Valdez, Director at Hillsborough County Parks and Recreation Department. “It is a process that is developed daily until the choice for integrity is no longer a choice but instead, a habit.”

The Character Development Program will be implemented by County staff at 12 sites and supported weekly by PCA certified trainers to help reinforce positive character-building traits.

“Both PCA and the County recognize that teaching character never stops,” said Mason Brady, Executive Director of PCA – Tampa Bay. “Teaching and practicing character skills is like other sports’ practices. You don’t practice free throws only one day, one week, or one year. You keep working on the skill and you continue to improve or get stronger.

“We’re excited to continue our partnership and program with Hillsborough Parks this summer. We’ll dive deeper and cover new content with their leadership, staff and campers.”

The partnership with Hillsborough County Parks & Recreation and PCA - Tampa Bay has been made possible by generous contributions from BayCare Health System, the Spurlino Foundation and the County, itself. We are very thankful for their support and the ultimate beneficiary will be our community as these youth develop life lessons that will translate into them being character-minded citizens here in Tampa Bay.

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