Since 1966, the Trinity Educational Enrichment Program (TEEP) has offered New Orleans youth a safe, enriching, and joyful summer learning experience.
The 2025 summer session was no exception, fostering vibrant growth, connection, and learning among 88 campers and the dedicated counselors, staff, and volunteers who made it possible.
This summer’s TEEP Backpack Drive was a tremendous success, surpassing the $10,000 goal and raising over $11,300 to ensure students had the supplies they needed to start strong. More than 90 backpacks full of school supplies were distributed, giving each camper the tools they needed to thrive.
Volunteers came together in late June to set up the “backpack store,” where students selected their own supplies—an empowering moment of choice and preparation.
On TEEP Sunday, July 6, our community gathered to celebrate the program’s success. Students shared music, art, and projects during the 10:30 a.m. service, followed by a joyful lunch on campus. This annual tradition is a reminder of the impact TEEP has on families across generations.
In addition to academic enrichment and field trips, TEEP continued its commitment to whole-person support. Before camp began, counselors received training from NAMI Southeast Louisiana (NAMI SELA) focused on mental health awareness, adolescent development, and crisis response.
“It was great having Gladys Campbell from NAMI SELA come work with my counselors. They found the training helpful and relevant and felt equipped with tools to support campers who might be at risk,” said Romaine McCarthy, TEEP Director.
Counselors shared that the training gave them confidence to recognize signs of mental health struggles both in campers and in themselves. One counselor reflected,
“The more people who know about the signs of mental illness, the more we are able to decrease the effects of mental illness.”
The bonds formed in TEEP last well beyond the summer. As alumna, former counselor, and current TEEP camper parent Marinda Lee-Houston shared:
TEEP planted in me—and now my children—a strong foundation rooted in family, faith, and God’s purpose.
The enrichment activities and field trips create lasting memories. Surrounded by laughter, love, and shared food, it felt like one big family.
Help keep this legacy going—your support ensures TEEP remains a source of hope and opportunity for generations to come.
For more information about supporting TEEP or volunteering, contact Romaine McCarthy at teep@trinitynola.com.
