men·tor \ˈmen-ˌtȯr, -tər\ Mentoring is a relational experience in which one person empowers another.
The primary vision of PYDA is "building bridges of hope." We believe that relationships lie at the heart of building bridges. Mentor-Connect-Relate is PYDA's mentoring program designed to encourage connections between experienced adults and young people today.
Another way PYDA encourages building bridges is through its summer camp program. Camp on Aquidneck is an exciting opportunity for youth to experience the fun and adventure of camp. And Aquidneck Island is a great place to discover, have fun, and grow together.
Camp on Aquidneck is PYDA's summer camp program for youth. Currently, PYDA offers a week-long overnight camp experience for young people ages 12-18. Campers take part in indoor and outdoor activities like hiking, team competitions, arts and crafts, swimming (at the ocean!), and more! PYDA camp is an affordable summer camp amidst the wonder of sea and forest in a safe, fun, and Christian environment.
Since 2008 PYDA has served it's many guests in various capacities and recently celebrated 10 years of service. PYDA began simply as a support organization to provide funding for youth people ages 12-18 attend summer camp, but since then has expanded and developed in exciting ways. PYDA quickly decided to run its own week-long camp experience for youth. This year PYDA will begin a sports camp (basketball) and initiate a mentoring program. The main focus for PYDA will continue to be its initial vision - to to help young people grow morally, physically, mentally, and socially. Every young person should be given the opportunity to experience summer camp, find adult mentors for support, and develop into the person God wants them to be. Since PYDA does not own its own property on Aquidneck Island, we have partnered with Portsmouth Campmeeting, an established Christian camp on the Island. Portsmouth Campmeeting was established in 1891 as a place to find God and as a place of retreat and renewal. Yet, as much as we appreciate our partnership with Portsmouth Campmeeting, PYDA's mission is not limited to that partnership. PYDA is a separate non-profit organization whose vision extends outward to seek ares of service to youth. Thus, our concern for youth mentoring and physical development through various camp experiences. Our goal is to provide every youth with a place to experience renewal and create lifetime memories as well as grow in faith and encouragement.
Register for PYDA @ Portsmouth Campmeeting now and join the fun! Click the register button below to pre-register and let us know you will be joining us. Be sure to fill out the Registration and Health forms in the Camp Web Resources box to the left. We look forward to seeing you at camp this year.
The Portsmouth Youth Development Association, or PYDA as it is fondly known, was established in 2007 with a vision to provide youth ages 12-18 with opportunities to attend summer camp. Founded by the Rev. Dr. Philip LaFountain Sr., PYDA was established as a Christian non-profit, tax-exempt organization operated and directed by caring board members who themselves had experienced the transformation of camp. PYDA's directors are non-paid volunteers committed to the support of young people today.
PYDA's summer camp program, Camp on Aquidneck, is hosted by the Portsmouth Campmeeting Assocdiaton, located at 69 Hedly Street, Portsmouth, Rhode Island. The spacious and beautiful grounds, availability of girls and boys dorms, and proximity to famous Newport, Rhode Island make Portsmouth Campmeeting an excellent place for PYDA to offer camp experiences.
The summer camp runs during the first full week of August. Campers enjoy personalized attention from staff thanks to a favorable ratio of campers to counselors. Our staff is committed to modeling caring and vibrant leadership. Trained counselors are typically young adults who have experienced camp while growing up and who now desire to help others. The purpose of all PYDA camps will be the same - to provide fun, safe, and challenging camping for the moral, physical, mental and social growth of youth.
PYDA's vision is to see young people, ages 12-18, experience the transformation of summer camp.
Life-long friendships are made at camp and the fun and exciting experiences are a highlight of camp week. nostra.
Friendships, Fun, and Faith converge each summer at Lakeside Christian Camp. Dedicated to equipping and encouraging children and adults in Christian faith. Lakeside Christian Camp offers programs of inspiration, set on a pristine lake, among glorious mountain views, wooded walking trails, and spacious meadows and fields.
PYDA's mission is twofold - to provide funding for kids to attend summer camp who might not normally attend.
At the same time the PYDA runs a summer camp during the first full week of August in partnership with the Portsmouth Campmeeting Associaton. This camp forefronts the need for spiritual and moral guidance during the teen years while not neglecting the physical, mental and social aspects of life.
Two additional camps are planned in the near future - a Sports Camp and and Adventure Camp.
