At the First Coast YMCA, we believe in the power of camp to build bridges between communities, cultures, and countries. This summer, in partnership with the YMCA of the Philippines, YUSA’s Global Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (GDEI) initiative, and the Asia Pacific Islander Leadership Network (APILN) National Committee, we had the privilege of hosting Jayson from the Philippines as an international camp counselor. This opportunity was made possible by the Philippines Coalition, which sponsored Jayson’s journey to learn and experience an American overnight camp firsthand.
During his time at YMCA Camp Immokalee, Jayson not only embraced our camp’s century-old traditions, but he also brought a unique perspective, rooted in his rich cultural background, to our community. Through collaboration, he enhanced his leadership skills and found innovative ways to bring those learnings back to the YMCA movement in the Philippines. His journey represents the beginning of something much larger—a shared dream to establish overnight camps in the Philippines, empowering Filipino youth just as we do here at Camp Immokalee.
This experience has reaffirmed the power of international exchanges and the incredible potential they have to shape the future of YMCA programs across the globe. We look forward to continuing these partnerships, fostering connections, and creating more opportunities for cultural exchange between our countries.
Here is Jayson’s story, in his own words, reflecting on his time with us and the impact this experience has had on him, both personally and professionally.
Jayson’s Story
At the start of summer 2024, I embarked on a journey as an international camp counselor—an opportunity to explore how a YMCA camp in the US runs. Coming from the other side of the world with a different cultural background, I arrived at YMCA Camp Immokalee with a blend of excitement, eagerness, and apprehension, fervid to share and improve what I had while immersing myself in a more than century-old American camp.
The first week at camp was full of adjustments and skill advancements; it was the training week when I initially interacted with my fellow counselors and learned the necessary competencies. The phase of adapting to a new environment, understanding cultural differences, and finding footing in an unfamiliar place. But the welcoming atmosphere, enthusiasm of my co-counselors, and the values and inclusive outlook the camp upholds made it easy to adapt.
YMCA Camp Immokalee provides diligent and wholesome training, empowering the counselors. Thus, leading us to be a better version of ourselves by maximizing our potentials to create the so-called “magic moments” for the campers. All while helping us build camaraderie, making us each other’s strong support system. Together, we get through challenging times, celebrate successes, and create a safe and fun environment for the staff and the campers.
As the days progressed and when the summer camp was in full swing, I began to realize how incredible and rewarding the role is and how impactful a camp is for young people. Each day’s interaction with campers was just momentous—a source of continuous learning and an avenue to make a difference. It was a roller coaster ride; some days felt too slow, and others felt too fast. The slow days were when you experienced challenges, while the fast days were just good days that I wished to last longer. I found joy in seeing the campers try to face their fear of heights, getting through it while being there as the facilitator. It was just a fulfilling feeling, knowing you were a part of such a milestone. I loved witnessing the campers grow, discover, or develop new skills, become confident, and build lasting connections.
Reflecting on my time as an international camp counselor, I realize how fortunate I am to have such an informative and transformative opportunity. The experience has provided me with personal growth and professional advancement, broadened my worldview, deepened my understanding of cultural diversity, and enriched my YMCA perspective as a staff.
I am beyond grateful to everyone who made this undertaking a reality: YMCA of the USA, YMCA of Florida’s First Coast, YMCA Camp Immokalee, YMCA of Albay, and the YMCA’s Asian Pacific Islander Leadership Network (APILN). After such an immeasurable experience, I wish the YMCAs in the Philippines could also have camps like those in the US.
