2025-03-22 Miami Youth Group's Spring Break Outdoor Trip – Promoting Health and Unity

To encourage young people to connect with nature and develop a healthy lifestyle during spring break, the Miami Youth Group organized an exciting outdoor excursion at Welleby Park on March 22. This event, planned and coordinated entirely by the youth members, featured a diverse range of engaging activities, attracting nearly a hundred participants, including young adults, parents, and children.

On the day of the event, members of the Miami Fo Guang Shan community gathered under the fresh air and warm sunshine, participating in a variety of games designed by the youth group. These included running races, tug-of-war, arm wrestling, tennis throwing, ping-pong spoon relay, board games, Connect Four, bean bag toss, and other team competitions that fostered camaraderie and teamwork. Additionally, the West Palm Beach Subchapter organized a Tai Chi session to help participants relax, enhance concentration, and find inner balance.

A highlight of the event was the parent-child tug-of-war, where families worked together while even their pet dogs cheered them on. The lively and laughter-filled competition created a warm and joyful family atmosphere. Miami Association members also actively participated, promoting intergenerational bonding and strengthening the unity of the Fo Guang Shan community.

What made this event especially meaningful was that every aspect was independently planned by the youth members. Despite their busy academic schedules, they dedicated time to discussions with their guiding Dharma masters, carefully designing everything from promotional materials to event programs. The West Palm Beach Subchapter also provided an array of delicious food and beverages, allowing the youth to focus on event coordination and ensuring smooth execution.

Amy, a parent of one of the youth members, expressed her appreciation, stating that the event was not only enjoyable but also a rare opportunity to connect with the community. She hopes the youth group will continue organizing similar activities to encourage more young people to embrace the outdoors while developing teamwork and leadership skills.

Another parent, Jason, shared his delight, noting that since his two children joined the youth group, they have become more actively involved in community events and made many new friends through Fo Guang Shan activities, which brings him great joy.

Mayleen, the vice president of the Miami Youth Group, expressed her happiness in serving the community. Seeing everyone engaged and enjoying the event deeply inspired her, and she looks forward to hosting more activities in the future, welcoming more participants to create lasting memories together.

Additionally, Emily, the group's treasurer, led a presentation promoting the upcoming “Three Acts of Goodness” Children's Summer Camp in June, encouraging more families to participate and create a positive and nurturing environment for the younger generation.