Recently, I had the opportunity to spend a full day in Plant City, Florida alongside Michael, Travis, Junior, and Jesus — a day that blended service, professional growth, learning, and a lot of fun. What started as a simple outing became a meaningful reminder of how impactful a single day can be when purpose and connection are at the center.
We kicked off the morning with breakfast at First Watch, making sure we fueled up for the busy day ahead. Over good food and conversation, we set intentions for the day — focusing on teamwork, learning, and giving back. It was a simple but important start, giving us time to connect and be intentional about how we showed up for the day.
Our first stop after breakfast was Walmart, where we gathered non-perishable food items with a clear goal: supporting
families in need. Once our carts were filled, we headed to the Salvation Army Shelter for Families to deliver the donations.
The visit turned into much more than a drop-off. While there, we spoke with a case manager who shared insight into their daily work and the realities of serving vulnerable populations. What could have been a quick visit became a powerful learning moment. We gained a deeper appreciation for the compassion, patience, and commitment it takes to support families working toward stability — and a better understanding of the impact service can truly have.
Next, we visited the Florida Air Museum. Walking through exhibits filled with aircraft and aviation history allowed us to step into a world driven by innovation and exploration. It sparked conversations about technology, history, and career paths we might not have otherwise considered — a reminder that learning can happen anywhere.
The highlight of the afternoon came at Escapeology, where we took on a murder mystery escape room challenge. Working against the clock, we relied on problem-solving, communication, and teamwork to piece together clues. With time running low, we escaped with just over a minute remaining.
More than just a win, it was a moment that showed how trust and collaboration can make all the difference under pressure — skills that carry far beyond a single challenge.
After a full day, we wrapped things up at Dave & Buster’s, where we enjoyed dinner and some friendly competition in the arcade. Laughter and shared moments made for the perfect ending to a meaningful day.
What stood out most about our visit to Plant City wasn’t any single stop — it was the balance of service, learning, and
brotherhood throughout the day. From giving back at the shelter to gaining new perspectives, challenging ourselves, and simply enjoying time together, the experience showed us that growth often happens outside traditional settings.
It was a day filled with purpose, teamwork, and moments that will stick with us long after the trip ended. Days like this don’t just create memories — they build perspective, strengthen character, and remind us of the impact we can have on others.
- Hayden Lewter, Camp Vohokase Coordinator
