Boys & Girls Club of Pharr–San Juan Hosts 5th Annual Teen Mental Health Camp
In our mission to build bright futures, the Boys & Girls Club of Pharr–San Juan hosted an impactful weekend camp for teen Club members: "Courageously You: Be Bold. Be Brave. Be You." This was the Club's fifth annual Teen Mental Health Camp, led by the Behavioral Health & Support Services Department, a program dedicated to providing mental health prevention, promotion, and early intervention services to the youth, teens, and families of our communities. For three days, over 50 teens joined together at Camp Rio in Brownsville for an immersive experience focused on mental health, emotional wellbeing, and personal growth.
Designed to foster an enriching, safe, and supportive environment, the camp featured a blend of interactive learning sessions, engaging group activities, and classic camp traditions. Teens participated in guided discussions and workshops facilitated by the licensed professionals, staff, and student interns who make up the BHSS department, supported by trained staff of BGCPSJ. Topics covered self-love, healthy friendships, coping skills, relaxation and breathing, creating healthy support systems, building resiliency, and being true to oneself.
Beyond the educational sessions, the camp emphasized connection and fun. Campers enjoyed traditional activities including archery, creative arts, bonfires, laser tag, canoeing, and nature immersions that helped build trust, friendship, and a sense of community. These experiences provided balance to the wellness and learning sessions and made for a truly memorable weekend.
By the end of the 2025 camp, participants left with practical tools for managing their mental health, a stronger sense of self-awareness, and lasting bonds with peers. It was a powerful reminder that they are not alone, and that support is always within reach.
"I learned how to be calm in different situations, and gained a better understanding of how sometimes not everyone is having a good day." — Camper Hiram"I learned how to handle my social anxiety and how to talk more with people." — Camper Alejandro
Zaira Villarreal, Director of the Behavioral Health & Support Services Program, who spearheads this annual event, commented:
"At the core of our annual Teen Mental Health Camp is a simple truth: every teen deserves to feel seen, heard, and valued. This camp is more than just a gathering—it's a transformative experience that empowers our teens to embrace their individuality and navigate life's challenges with confidence. Witnessing the growth and resilience of our teen campers, I'm reminded of the profound impact our community can have when we come together. I am deeply grateful to everyone who contributed to making this experience so meaningful. Each year we hold this camp, we reaffirm the power of support, connection, and understanding in shaping brighter futures."
The Boys & Girls Club of Pharr–San Juan and the Behavioral Health & Support Services Program extend gratitude to all who helped bring this impactful event together. Opportunities such as these provide immeasurable value to the wellbeing and future of community youth and teens. The organization remains committed to its mission and to creating safe spaces where youth can learn, grow, and thrive.