At Community Tampa Bay, we know that when young people see the world through each other’s eyes, they are mobilized to change it for the better. Leading up to Giving Tuesday, we’ll be highlighted the very people whose worlds have been changed by dialogue, empathy, and action, through our programs like ANYTOWN®, our signature summer leadership program.
Inspired by our popular ANYTOWN® icebreaker “In My World…,” each of their stories begin with this same simple phrase, but reveals something extraordinary — a world that’s kinder, more just, and more inclusive because of Community Tampa Bay and your support.
Our 2025-2026 Youth Board Member, Adeline, graduated from the ANYTOWN® program in 2023 and has since stay involved as a Volunteer Camp Counselor, member of Advocacy Academy, and is now serving on the Board of Directors. Read how her world has been impacted by these programs:
“In my world, everyone is accepted for who they are. As someone who has been a part of the ANYTOWN® community since graduating in the year 2023, it is safe to say that I know the change that occurs when you step into this life-changing program. Imagine a world where you can share your opinions without the fear of being judged. Imagine a world where you feel a true sense of belonging each day. Imagine a world where you are able to connect with people on a deeper level than you could have ever imagined over the span of just five days. Well at ANYTOWN®, you do not have to imagine this world. This is what the program is all about. The main goal of the ANYTOWN® program is to create a safe space for healthy cross-cultural interaction and dialogue to occur. The goal is for everyone to feel comfortable in their own skin and to have fun while also diving into emotional topics.
I have learned many things from this beautiful program and I have been lucky enough to have the privilege to continue my work throughout Community Tampa Bay. I do not volunteer with ANYTOWN® because I need volunteering hours or I feel like I have to, I continue volunteering because my values align with the mission of acceptance that the program has to offer. In my world, everyone is accepted, but in our world, at ANYTOWN®, we have the ability to accept.”
On December 2nd, Giving Tuesday, you have the opportunity to support our free, transformative programs like ANYTOWN® and Advocacy Academy. With your support, these programs will continue to create safe and meaningful spaces for dialogue for young people across the Bay.
