Dear Editor,

Greetings from Japan!

For the last two weeks, I have been traveling across the western part of Japan as guest director with The Young Americans summer tour. I have been coming here annually since 2010 and I learn new things about the culture, the world and myself with every visit.

I always leave Japan with a desire to share the peace and honor I’ve received with my hometown community. There are some simple solutions to many of our problems but we must have the willingness to listen and have open minds.

One of the things that inspired me to create BELIEVE Summer Camp Experience was this desire to share what I’ve learned and be a positive influence on the next generation.

I came home with the belief that I could play a role in uplifting and inspiring youth and adults alike in my home parish and city by exposing them to a team of talented and experienced professionals from New York City, Los Angeles and Omaha, Nebraska.

But change requires participation and support. I hope that when BELIEVE comes to Bogalusa, starting June 25, that parents encourage their children (especially the teens) to come see what we have to offer. I also hope the community will come out to support the youth and get a glimpse of the change we are making in young people’s lives. See you soon!

Bruce Sampson

Bogalusa