Texas Border Business
In mission to Build Bright Futures, Boys & Girls Club Pharr San Juan hosted an impactful weekend camp for teen club members, “Courageously You: Be Bold. Be Brave. Be You”. This is the club’s fifth annual Teen Mental Health Camp led by the Behavioral Health and Support Services Department, a program dedicated to the mission of providing mental health prevention, promotion, and early intervention services to the youth, teens and families of our communities. For 3 days, over 50 teens joined together at Camp Rio in Brownsville for an immersive experience that 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 and 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 fun experiences provided balance to the wellness and learning sessions that 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 on how sometimes not everyone is having a good day and that we should treat everyone with kindness.” (Camper Hiram)
“I learned how to handle my social anxiety and how to talk more with people without getting nervous.” (Camper Alejandro)
Zaira Villarreal, Director of the Behavioral 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 would like to extend gratitude to all who helped support and bring this impactful event together. Opportunities such as these provide immeasurable value to the well-being and future of community youth & teens. The organization remains committed to its mission and creating safe spaces where youth can learn, grow and thrive.
To register a youth or teen at Boys & Girls Club of Pharr – San Juan for the Fall 2025 Afterschool Program operating every weekday from 3pm-8pm, contact any of the four club sites – Main Unit (956.781.5437), South Pharr Unit (956.787.6869), San Juan Unit (956.784. 3504) and Valley View Unit (956.223.1779). For more information on how to support the organization through monetary, in kind services, goods, or the like contact Chief Executive Officer, Alfredo Mata, Jr. 956.781.KIDS or visit pharrkids.org. The Boys and Girls Club of Pharr is a proud United Way of South Texas Agency.
