:quality(70)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/tronc/4KSHVR2HHZBKLBT4VCW565MNW4.jpg)
Age: 33
Job title: Founder/Executive Director
At work: As the founder and executive director of Camp25, I am responsible for directing one-day camps, educational camps and sports leagues for kids ages 4-17. Our sports leagues include activities such as soccer, volleyball and basketball. Our educational camps include one-day camps such as veterinary, baking, engineering, boxing and gymnastics. When the children are out of school, we offer spring break camps and summer camps. I also work as a physical education teacher with Southampton County Public Schools. As the physical education teacher, I teach children how to play various sports and how physical activity benefits the muscles and overall health.
Home and family: I was born and raised in Southampton County. My family consists of my mother, Deborah Parker; father, Duncan Benton; bonus father, Travis Parker; grandmother, Virginia Taylor; and sisters, Aubre’ Benton and Jade Parker. My family also consists of Camp25 board members, campers, parents and community partners who all play a huge role in bringing Camp25′s vision to fruition.
Volunteer activities: I serve on the board of directors with a local community center where my role allows me to collaborate with other board members to fulfill the organization’s mission and vision.
Inside Business
Motivating factor: What motivates me daily would be God, family, friends and serving our local youth. Being able to enhance the lives of the youth within the area will always be rewarding to me.
Advice to young people: Always believe in yourself, work hard and always be consistent.
Professional goal in five years: I am committing myself to continuing to enhance Camp25. Our goal is to reach more youth within local communities providing them positive outlets and opportunities to enhance social skills.
The one thing I’d change about Hampton Roads: Overall, Hampton Roads is an amazing place to live, but if I had to change one thing, it would be for Hampton Roads to implement policies and activities to decrease crime in our area.
Region’s biggest asset: Hampton Roads’ biggest asset is our ability to attract individuals from around the world to visit our area.
Downtime: When I do have a moment to relax, I enjoy playing video games, spending time with family and friends and traveling.
What really gets under my skin: One thing that gets under my skin is when people, specifically youth, don’t believe in themselves or their abilities.