Unity in the Community held its Summer Enrichment Camp Kickoff with Ted Phaeton at the Tryon International Equestrian Center on Monday.

Phaeton, a TV news journalist, spoke of his childhood to inspire campers to try their best, especially in school. He gave several points to encourage the campers, saying, “There is a road for you, and if there isn’t, you might have to make your own.”

Phaeton also said, “Don’t let anyone count you out.”

Another lesson Phaeton shared was that, “Sometimes all you need is a shot. When you get that shot, don’t waste it. When people bet on you, you need to show them that you are worth betting on. Hard work beats talent. I wasn’t a strong reader and didn’t like reading aloud, and now I read aloud for a living.”

Phaeton told of his journey to get to his position, saying, “If something scares you, do it.”

Afterwards, Phaeton gave the campers an opportunity to ask questions before posing for several photos with the campers.

The Summer Enrichment Camp Kickoff and all other expenses were made possible by a grant from the Polk County Community Foundation.

-Submitted by Paige McIntyre