Summer Camp Announcement : Local Partnership Expands Hands-On Learning Opportunities for Youth and Families

In a powerful collaboration rooted in mentorship and life skills, Men of Destiny and Put Tools in Schools have officially launched their latest summer initiative at the new "Toolbox" makerspace—a hands-on learning facility designed to equip young people and adults with real-world skills in trades, technology, and leadership.

“We’ve been under the radar for nine years,” said Gary Crump, founder of Men of Destiny. “Every summer, for six weeks, we run Levels of Leadership—not laugh out loud—but a program that teaches young men and women everything from installing toilets to building beer gardens.”

This year, the program is expanding through a formal partnership with Put Tools in Schools, led by Executive Director Ray Terry. Together, they’re turning an unfinished warehouse space into a fully equipped training hub featuring podcast studios, green screen walls, tool benches, and classrooms. “We’re going to teach kids a lot of things,” said Terry. “From broadcasting to HVAC, cooking, welding, and digital media.”

But the mission goes far beyond tools and trades. “These are life skills they’re going to use the rest of their life,” said Terry. “It empowers you. Until you learn how to use your hands and your mind—critical thinking, imagination, creativity—you don’t know the freedom it brings.”

The Toolbox isn’t just for youth, either. Adults are welcome to participate in upcoming training sessions. “Parents, many of you are lacking in this skill set,” Crump added. “This is a great space for moms, dads, uncles, and aunts to come and learn.”

With the first-ever podcast now recorded in the new studio, both leaders stressed that continued success will require support. “We need financial support. We need volunteers,” said Terry. “We’re working with other nonprofits to teach adults too. The Toolbox is going to be a premiere teaching facility.”

Their joint motto—“Collaboration over competition”—drives the mission forward. “Let’s raise the awareness. Let’s expose them. And let’s let our children make the decision,” said Crump. “Adults, stand back.”

Support the mission by donating or volunteering at www.puttoolsinschools.org.

Career exploration camps play a crucial role in shaping young individuals' futures, particularly by introducing them to various career paths, including the skilled trades. These programs offer early exposure to different professions, helping youth make informed decisions about their education and career trajectories.

📊 Key Statistics on Career Exploration and Youth Development

1. Enhanced Educational Outcomes

Students who engage in career exploration activities have a 72% probability of completing high school, compared to 52% for those who do not participate in such programs.

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2. Desire for Early Career Guidance

A significant majority of students express a wish for earlier career exploration opportunities:

69% of current high school students and 66% of graduates wished they had more access to career exploration during middle and high school.

3. Benefits of Camp Experiences

Participation in camps contributes to personal growth:

96% of campers reported making new friends.

92% felt that camp helped them feel good about themselves.

🔧 Spotlight on Skilled Trades

1. Growing Interest in Vocational Training

There has been a 16% increase in enrollment in vocational-focused community colleges nationally, with North Carolina reflecting this trend, particularly in Construction and Industrial Technologies programs.

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2. Perception vs. Reality

While 85% of young people and 94% of parents believe skilled trade work is a good career option, only 16% of youth are very likely to consider a career in the trades.

Many young individuals underestimate the earning potential in skilled trades, with only 42% expecting starting salaries of at least $50,000, despite many trades offering such compensation.

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3. Hands-On Exposure

Programs like the Youth Exploration Program introduce students to construction trades through hands-on technical learning, career readiness, and soft skills training, providing a comprehensive view of opportunities in the trades.