Three Acts of Goodness Children’s Camp Inspires North Carolina Youth to Dream Big and Never Give Up

Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple, North Carolina holds the Three Acts of Goodness Children’s Summer Camp from June 15–17, 2026, themed “Dream × Respect × Breakthrough” and inspired by Disney’s Zootopia.

[Reported by Yuchuan, North Carolina, USA] Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple, North Carolina held its annual Three Acts of Goodness Children’s Summer Camp from June 15 to 17, 2026, centered on the theme “Dream × Respect × Breakthrough.” Inspired by Disney’s classic animated film Zootopia, the camp encouraged children to pursue their dreams courageously, overcome prejudice, and face challenges with perseverance while putting the spirit of the Three Acts of Goodness into practice.

Penny Liu, Vice President of the BLIA Young Adult Division, and Antares Sentosa Harjo serve as student leaders for the 2026 Three Acts of Goodness Children’s Summer Camp.

The three-day camp was organized and led by eight members of the BLIA Young Adult Division and youth volunteers. The program featured a wide variety of activities, including Buddhist etiquette, themed classes such as “Brave Hearts, Big Dreams” and “Chasing Dreams: A Letter to My Future Self,” movie discussion sessions, meditation practice, arts and crafts, team-building activities, recreational games, and chocolate-covered fruit popsicle making. Through engaging and interactive activities, the camp helped children develop positive values, strengthen concentration and creativity, and cultivate teamwork skills.

Campers enthusiastically participate in recreational activities filled with laughter and fun.

One of the highlights of the camp was the “Letter to My Future Self” time capsule activity. Venerable Zhi San guided the campers in writing letters to themselves ten years into the future, encouraging them to record their dreams, aspirations, and personal goals through both writing and drawing. Counselors secretly placed words of encouragement inside each envelope, while the temple included bookmarks featuring sayings by Fo Guang Shan founder Venerable Master Hsing Yun. The sealed letters will be reopened in 2036, allowing participants to reflect on their growth and the realization of their dreams.

During the closing ceremony, all campers sing the “Three Acts of Goodness Song,” showcasing the energy and learning gained throughout the camp.

During the closing ceremony, Venerable Miao Jou, Superintendent of Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple, North Carolina, encouraged the children to establish correct values through their camp experiences so they would be able to make wise decisions when facing future challenges and choices. She also shared with parents her joy in witnessing the campers’ growth, noting how some children became willing to try unfamiliar foods while others gained confidence and actively participated in group activities. Through different annual themes, the summer camp continues to provide children with diverse learning experiences and support their personal development.

Venerable Miao Jou, Superintendent of Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple, North Carolina, teaches the Buddhist etiquette class, introducing campers to temple etiquette and monastic decorum.

BLIA North Carolina President Gee Chia expressed that achieving one’s dreams must be built upon good character and healthy habits, encouraging children to cultivate the spirit of the Three Acts of Goodness while pursuing their goals.

Campers participate in outdoor team-building activities, fostering cooperation and teamwork.

Parents also shared their appreciation for the camp, noting positive changes in their children. Some children who had previously been picky eaters became willing to try new foods and learned not to waste food. Parents praised the camp for promoting values such as courage, perseverance, and determination, and expressed their intention to recommend the program to other families.

During the arts and crafts session, campers use lightweight clay to create characters from the camp’s featured film, expressing their creativity and imagination.

Outstanding Camper Award recipient Fei Peng, attending a Fo Guang Shan camp for the third time, shared that she always enjoys the games and delicious meals. She said this year’s camp taught her the importance of bravely pursuing his dreams and never giving up.

Venerable Zhi San leads morning meditation sessions, helping campers calm their minds and begin each day with focus and energy.

Those attending the closing ceremony included Venerable Miao Jou, Superintendent of Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple, North Carolina, Venerable Zhi San, BLIA North Carolina President Gee Chia, and nearly 30 parents, who gathered to witness the children’s achievements and growth throughout the three-day camp.

In the chocolate fruit popsicle workshop, campers create their own personalized treats.

BLIA North Carolina President Gee Chia presents awards to the “Never Give Up” team in recognition of their teamwork and positive spirit.