Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto successfully concluded its five-day 3 Beats of Goodness Drum Camp on July 10, welcoming 40 children and youth for an enriching summer program that combined 24 Festive Drums, Buddhist education, teamwork, and character development. Guided by Fo Guang Shan's Three Acts of Goodness—Do Good Deeds, Speak Good Words, and Think Good Thoughts—together with the Buddhist Five Precepts, the camp encouraged participants to cultivate compassion, respect, responsibility, and self-discipline through engaging, hands-on learning.

In addition to daily drum training, campers attended five interactive Buddhist classes based on stories from Bodhi Light Tales. Through storytelling, role-playing, and group activities, they explored the Five Precepts in age-appropriate ways, learning to respect life, care for others' belongings, make responsible choices, and avoid harmful habits. These lessons demonstrated how Buddhist values can be naturally integrated into everyday life at home, at school, and within the community.

The camp concluded with a joyful closing ceremony, where participants presented an energetic drum performance that reflected not only their musical progress but also the confidence, teamwork, discipline, and perseverance they had developed throughout the week.

Nine-year-old Alyssa Huang shared that making new friends was the highlight of the camp. Practicing rhythms together, helping one another, and sharing snacks and laughter made her summer "special and meaningful." She added, "I hope I can come back again next year."

Fourteen-year-old Natalie Kwok said the camp introduced her to both drumming and Buddhist teachings in a fun and engaging way. Rehearsing together helped her appreciate the importance of teamwork, perseverance, discipline, and mutual respect. On behalf of all participants, she thanked the coaches and volunteers for their patience, encouragement, and dedicated guidance.

During the closing ceremony, Venerable Chueh Fan, Abbess of Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto, invited the children to reflect on what they had learned throughout the camp. Participants enthusiastically shared how they had learned to help others, discovered Buddhist stories, gained a deeper understanding of the Five Precepts, and experienced meditation. Venerable Chueh Fan commended the campers for their growth in discipline, cooperation, and positive learning attitudes, while expressing heartfelt appreciation to drum coach Tom Ly, the volunteers, and parents whose unwavering support made the camp a meaningful success.

Outstanding campers received Three Acts of Goodness Awards and Character Awards in recognition of their exemplary conduct, encouraging them to continue practicing these values at home, at school, and in their communities. Coaches and youth volunteers were also presented with appreciation gifts in recognition of their dedicated service.

The camp concluded with a joyful group photo, celebrating a week of learning, friendship, and personal growth. As the final drumbeats echoed through the temple, they carried with them Fo Guang Shan's aspiration to nurture compassionate, confident, and responsible young people, allowing the spirit of the Three Acts of Goodness and the Five Precepts to take root in the hearts of the next generation.