James Jones Crew 22 Training Camp offers at-risk children an experience rich in life skills and fun

Date: 08/21/17

NORTH MIAMI BEACH —­ It was a week to remember for 89 children who attended the seventh annual James Jones Legacy Foundation’s Crew 22 Training Camp last month at Florida International University.

The camp, sponsored by Sunshine Health, offers at-risk children, many of whom are in foster care and face socioeconomic challenges, an experience rich in life skills and fun.

The children learned about teamwork, fitness and nutrition; and enjoyed tennis, kickball, basketball and bowling. They also completed the Ropes Course Adventure at Florida International University’s North Campus. The course is a series of adventure-based activities that provide training in leadership, team building, communication and problem solving.

But empowerment was the real focus.

Kids worked through a series of sessions led by nationally recognized role models, community partners and staff with expertise in areas such as leadership, social development, etiquette, stress management, public speaking and decision making.

“This camp is really designed to grow their minds,” said Jones, who won three NBA championships, including two with the Miami Heat. “We want them to understand how great their potential is, and just as importantly, how to set goals and put in the hard work to achieve them.”

The camp has served nearly 700 children from ages 11-17 since its inception.

“Working with James and the Crew 22 Training Camp has been a tremendous privilege for Sunshine Health,” said Neiko Shea, vice president of Sunshine Health’s Child Welfare Specialty Plan. “His camp provides an incredible opportunity for underprivileged youth in South Florida. It exposes them to a college environment and role models from different sports and business fields who are able to show them what is possible and help them focus on their futures.”