Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto welcomed the start of summer with heartwarming energy as it hosted the Three Acts of Goodness Children’s Summer Camp from June 28 to July 1. Seventy children and youth counselors came together for four days of fun, friendship, and spiritual discovery—blending learning and laughter in a vibrant program designed to nurture kindness, empathy, and inner growth.

Organized by the Buddha’s Light Young Adult Division (YAD), the camp used the animated film How to Train Your Dragon as a creative framework. Campers explored how the main character, Hiccup, used compassion and courage to transform fear into trust—mirroring the Buddhist values of the Three Acts of Goodness: do good deeds, speak good words, and think good thoughts. Through themed discussions, colorful painting, planting, and a lively “Compassion in Action” bingo game, the children connected Buddhist teachings to real-life actions.

Venerable Zhi Guan led a special session introducing the life of the Buddha and Venerable Master Hsing Yun, the founder of Fo Guang Shan. Through storytelling and video, children learned how great compassion can shape a better world. A highlight was the blind folded “one-stroke calligraphy” activity—an immersive way for children to experience the power of focused intention and letting go.

“Camping is not just about fun—it’s about learning how to live with kindness and gratitude,” said Abbess Venerable Chueh Fan. She encouraged the children to carry the values they learned into their homes and classrooms, and to return each year to deepen their connection with the Dharma. She ended by inviting everyone to express gratitude to their parents.

At the joyful Canada Day-themed closing ceremony, campers made vows before the Buddha to “plant seeds of compassion” and offered lights to pray for peace in the country. Many children shared that their favorite parts were the delicious temple meals and the older “brothers and sisters” who cared for them.

YAD President Joe Li urged the children to become the superheroes of their own lives—helping others, leading with kindness, and growing with courage. On behalf of the Toronto chapter, Vice President Rachel Fan thanked the volunteer Bodhisattvas and youth counselors for their love and patience, and expressed the hope of one day creating a “Fo Guang Camp” where all ages can learn and grow together in the spirit of Humanistic Buddhism.