Host Jeremy C. Park talks with Caroline Davis, Founder and CEO of An Array of Charm Camps for Youth Development (AAOC), who highlights the nonprofit organization’s 20-year history of teaching children etiquette and life skills through various programs and partnerships in Nashville, Tennessee. Caroline details their mission “to empower disadvantaged youth by equipping them with the academic competencies, social skills and leadership training required to create permanent, positive change in their lives” and how they accomplish their mission through a foundation of training in etiquette, civility, and protocol. Their programs include summer camps, after-school programs, and community partnerships with more than 20 organizations, including Delta Dental of Tennessee and the Tennessee Titans. Caroline emphasizes the importance of manners in child development and shares success stories of former campers who have achieved professional success, while encouraging listeners and viewers to support the organization through donations and volunteering.
AAOC’s 20 Years of Etiquette
Caroline Davis, Founder and CEO of AAOC, discusses the organization’s 20-year history of teaching children etiquette in various forms, including COVID-19 etiquette, first impressions, public speaking, and telephone manners. She emphasizes the importance of manners in making children into good human beings and highlights the significance of first impressions in daily interactions.
AAOC Counts: Community Life Skills
Caroline discusses the mission and activities of AAOC, a nonprofit organization that partners with various community groups and provides etiquette and life skills training to children aged 4 to 15 in North Nashville. She highlights their summer program, which includes 8 weeks of etiquette lessons, field trips, and guest speakers, as well as after-school activities. Caroline expresses gratitude for partnerships with organizations like Delta Dental of Tennessee, the Tennessee Titans, and the Nashville Predators, and emphasizes their commitment to serving the community through programs focused on exposing children to new experiences and teaching them valuable life skills.
After-School Program Success Stories
Caroline describes their after-school program that provides tutoring, academic support, and various extracurricular activities including yoga, martial arts, and music. She highlights the program’s impact on children’s lives, noting that many former campers have gone on to become successful professionals, business owners, and even professional athletes. Caroline shares a particularly moving story about a camper with behavioral issues who found success as a professional drummer after discovering his passion for music through the program.
AAOC: Empowering Youth Through Etiquette
Caroline discusses how the organization’s etiquette and life skills training help children in Nashville grow into responsible adults. She highlights the partnership with various community organizations and businesses, including Delta Dental of Tennessee, Metro Parks, and Nashville Library, which support their programs through events like the Kids Dental Day and Shoe Distribution. Caroline emphasizes the importance of community involvement and financial support, encouraging individuals to donate or volunteer through their website and Giving Matters profile. She also shares her personal journey and the impact of etiquette lessons on her life and the youth she serves, expressing her commitment to continue teaching and transforming lives.
Visit https://aaoccamps.org/ to learn more and to get involved with An Array of Charm Camps for Youth Development (AAOC).
