Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.5.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site.## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://www.tomtodideas.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Women's Stories](https://www.tomtodideas.org/womens-stories/) - Women's Stories for a Better Tomorrow “Boys are jerks.” Though Kiera is only in middle school, she and her friends have already found themselves facing a wide array of challenges as young women. Body shaming, misogynistic attitudes and comments, inappropriate advances and even abuse. What they hadn’t found yet, was a way to - [Norton's Pathway to Peace](https://www.tomtodideas.org/pathway/) - Read the WKYC story. - [Riley, Mylie, Joseph, Arielle, Hope, Lara](https://www.tomtodideas.org/eldercare/) - The Eldercare Storytelling Project Your donation empowers middle schoolers like Arielle to help their community thrive. Donate Give to empower middle schoolers like Hope. Your donation empowers middle schoolers to help their community thrive. Give to empower middle schoolers like Hope. Donate Riley, Mylie, Joseph, Arielle, Hope, and Lara The - [Andrew](https://www.tomtodideas.org/empower/) - Give to empower middle schoolers like Andrew. Your donation empowers middle schoolers to help their community thrive. Donate Give to empower middle schoolers like Hope. Your donation empowers middle schoolers to help their community thrive. Give to empower middle schoolers like Andrew. Donate Andrew Camp What If is a two-week-long - [Ace](https://www.tomtodideas.org/encourage/) - Give to empower middle schoolers. Your donation empowers middle schoolers to help their community thrive. Donate Give to empower middle schoolers like Hope. Your donation empowers middle schoolers to help their community thrive. Give to empower middle schoolers like Ace. Donate Ace Ace's TomTod Journey Middle school can be a - [2023 Annual Report](https://www.tomtodideas.org/2023-annual-report/) - [TomTod Update Regarding Joel's Health](https://www.tomtodideas.org/tomtod-update/) - Barb Bennett to join TomTod leadership team in the interim in light of the medical absence of Joel Daniel Harris ## Pages - [Home](https://www.tomtodideas.org/) - You're invited to the most fun fundraiser of the year! Mark your calendars for April 16th, 2026! The Feast of Ideas is just around the corner and we’re excited to return to our gracious hosts at Employers Health. Relive the wonder. Fund the Future. Your support empowers middle schoolers to impact their community for good, - [Team](https://www.tomtodideas.org/team/) - Team The TomTod crew is a devoted gaggle of unique individuals from diverse backgrounds with one shared trait: We're superfans of middle schoolers and their ability to spark positive community change. Andrea Capuano Senior Operations Lead Colleen Carl Finance Director Jacob Cook Adventure Curator Patrick Gerber Senior Adventure Lead Joel Daniel - [Feast Registration](https://www.tomtodideas.org/feast/) - We invite you back to middle school! Think back to middle school. Maybe it was the smell of new notebooks, the excitement of the lunch table, or that one teacher who finally got you. At TomTod, we believe that middle school isn’t just a phase to "get through"—it’s where incredible ideas begin. That’s why we’re - [Careers](https://www.tomtodideas.org/careers/) - Join our team! Every role at TomTod has the same goal: to empower middle schoolers to explore and launch ideas that put empathy and imagination into action. Team Openings We are adding a new awesome person to our team! Part-time Logistics Juggler We are seeking a teammate with 2 years of dedicated experience in either - [WIYC sign up](https://www.tomtodideas.org/wiycinfo/) - What If You Could Project-Based Mentoring with TomTod Ideas Real-world learning What If You Could guides middle schoolers through professional collaboration, prototyping, and project management by taking their ideas and trying to make them a reality. We connect middle schoolers to people, tools, and resources to make their ideas become real. Middle - [Careers - Summer](https://www.tomtodideas.org/summer-team/) - Join our team for the summer! Every role at TomTod has the same goal: to empower middle schoolers to explore and launch ideas that put empathy and imagination into action. Lead Pathfinder (Lead Camp Counselor) Pay: $18-20/hour Full Job Description Pathfinder (Camp Counselor) Pay: $14-16.50/hour Full Job Description Assistant Pathfinder - [Collabs](https://www.tomtodideas.org/collabs/) - Community Quests Register for Stark Idea Quest 2026 Community Quests are inquiry-focused projects customized for your community and your middle school students. Each Community Quest includes a curriculum tailored to your community, as well as training and ongoing support to help participating educators develop deeper expertise and confidence around inquiry-based and student-led project-based learning. - [Give Now](https://www.tomtodideas.org/give-now-to-empower-middle-schoolers/) - Give to empower middle schoolers like Arielle. Your donation empowers middle schoolers to help their community thrive. Give Now Give to empower middle schoolers like Arielle. Give now Middle schoolers matter because... We have a different perspective on things, and we know more about our community than adults think we do. Melodee - [What If 101 | Neighborhood Survey | Canton City 2025](https://www.tomtodideas.org/canton-survey/) - What If 101 | Neighborhod Survey | 2025 Canton City Report We asked all of the 7th graders in Canton City Schools about their neighborhoods. Here's what they told us: Take the What If 101 Neighborhood Survey You can see and take the What If 101 neighborhood survey below. The goal of this survey - [What If 101](https://www.tomtodideas.org/what-if-101/) - What If 101 In-school class What If 101 (WI101) is a school-based program that connects middle school students to their community by walking them through the Liberatory Design Thinking process to challenge them to see themselves as community leaders. What If 101 leverages the best of project-based, problem-based, and place-based learning in ways that unlock - [What If Wonders](https://www.tomtodideas.org/what-if-wonders/) - What If Wonders At TomTod Ideas, middle schoolers don’t just dream big—they make things happen. Across programs like What If 101, Camp What If, What If You Could, and more, students explore their ideas, collaborate with peers, and take real steps toward creating change in their communities. Guided by TomTod Adventure Curators and supported - [ACT](https://www.tomtodideas.org/act/) - Why Act like a Middle Schooler? What’s the first thing you think of when you hear “middle schooler”? Be honest—was it awkward? Chaotic? Eye-roll emoji? At TomTod, we’re flipping that script. Middle schoolers are some of the most creative, curious, empathetic, determined, authentic, and brave people you’ll meet. And they’re not just the future—they’re changing - [Messy Minds Jewelry](https://www.tomtodideas.org/messy-minds/) - North Canton Middle Schoolers Bring Mental Health Resource to the Community Ten middle schoolers from North Canton Middle School took their What If 101 experience to the next level at Camp What If You Could! Over two jam-packed days, they formed committees, brainstormed strategies, and launched a jewelry fundraiser called Messy Minds—all in support - [Subscribe](https://www.tomtodideas.org/subscribe/) - Monthly Middle Schooler Stories Our monthly Storyboard newsletter is full of middle schooler stories, ways to get involved, and highlights from our programs. Take a look at past Storyboards! August 2025 July 2025 June 2025 Sign up for the Storyboard * indicates required Email Address * First Name * Last Name Follow us on Instagram! - [Dashboard](https://www.tomtodideas.org/dashboard/) - Team Dashboard Photos on the Go: Carla: Jacob: Pat: Zane: - [Camp What If](https://www.tomtodideas.org/camp-what-if/) - Be the first to know when Summer 2026 opens for registration! Get on the list! Since 2012, Camp What If (CWI) has been the go-to summer program for middle schoolers to deep-dive into their city. Middle schoolers visit a broad range of organizations, speak with community leaders, and explore what makes their city tick. - [Camp Explore](https://www.tomtodideas.org/camp-explore/) - Camp Explore 4-day themed summer camps Camp Explores are 4-day camps designed to immerse middle schoolers in community explorations and fun hands-on projects. Each Camp Explore is themed around a community sector (such as art, business, health, or manufacturing) offering a variety of options for middle schoolers to express their creativity, explore their interests, - [Camps](https://www.tomtodideas.org/camps/) - Free summer camp for middle schoolers and their families! With two-week day camps and partial-day mini camps, there are options for everyone. - [Fund for What's Next](https://www.tomtodideas.org/fund-for-whats-next/) - Fund for What's Next $100,000 Match Launched on our 10th anniversary, our Fund for What's Next endowment, managed by the Stark Community Foundation, allows us to take thoughtful risks to grow and pursue innovative opportunities for empowering middle schoolers. With this fund, we can pilot creative programming, hire qualified team members, and invest in - [Camp Explore Summit Makers](https://www.tomtodideas.org/summit-makers/) - Camp Explore: Summit Makers A four-day industry exploration camp for middle schoolers leaving 5th-8th grade. Explore engineering, designing, and making with TomTod Ideas and local manufacturing professionals! July 21-24, 9:00am-3:00pm at Bounce Innovation Hub. register now LEARN BY DOING A 4-day adventure that includes hands-on creator challenges, Field Discovery Labs to local manufacturing businesses, - [Camp Explore Middle School](https://www.tomtodideas.org/camp-explore-middle-school/) - Camp Explore: Middle School A Middle School Transition Program Camp Explore: Middle School is a middle school transition and mentoring program that helps students feel excited, prepared, and less nervous about starting middle school. The goal of Explore: Middle School is to empower middle schoolers to investigate and discover answers to questions, concerns, and - [Camp What If Akron](https://www.tomtodideas.org/camp-what-if-akron/) - Camp What If: Akron The go-to free summer camp for middle schoolers leaving 5th-8th grade to explore their city, create and pitch ideas, and spark positive community change. They'll visit a broad range of organizations, speak with community leaders, and explore what makes Akron tick. register now Camp What If Schedule While every - [Joel Bio](https://www.tomtodideas.org/joel-bio/) - Joel Daniel Harris Executive Dreamer Contact Joel for: Programmatic partnerships in your school or community Corporate sponsorship opportunities Consulting or Professional Development Dad jokes Joel Daniel Harris is the founder and Executive Dreamer of TomTod Ideas. JDH loves working alongside a stellar team to support and empower early adolescents because he knows middle schoolers - [About Us](https://www.tomtodideas.org/about/) - We believe middle schoolers matter. Our Mission We empower middle schoolers to explore and launch ideas that put empathy and imagination into action. TomTod is a youth development nonprofit based in Canton, Ohio that listens to, honors, and advocates for middle schoolers. Yep. You read that right. Middle schoolers, and only middle - [Camp Explore Stark Makers](https://www.tomtodideas.org/stark-makers/) - Camp Explore: Stark Makers A four-day industry exploration camp for middle schoolers leaving 5th-8th grade. Explore engineering, designing, and making with TomTod Ideas and local manufacturing professionals! register now LEARN BY DOING A 4-day adventure that includes hands-on creator challenges, Field Discovery Labs to local manufacturing businesses, and interviews with manufacturing professionals. At - [Camp Explore Akron Artsplorations](https://www.tomtodideas.org/camp-explore-akron-artsplorations/) - Camp Explore: Akron Artsplorations A four-day arts exploration camp for middle schoolers leaving 5th-8th grade. Doodle, sketch, tell stories, be dramatic, or make new dance moves... come explore and create art with us this summer! June 16-20, 9:00am-3:00pm at Ellet Community Center. (no camp Juneteenth) GET ON THE WAIT LIST LEARN BY DOING A - [Carla Bio](https://www.tomtodideas.org/carla-bio/) - Carla Herstine Adventure Curator Contact Carla for: Volunteering as a Community Guest Carla Herstine has been working as an Adventure Curator at TomTod Ideas since 2025. As an Adventure Curator, Carla works directly with middle schoolers through our programming in classes, clubs, and camps. Her passion for empowering youth and creating safe spaces for - [Camp Explore: Adulthood](https://www.tomtodideas.org/camp-explore-adulthood/) - Camp Explore: Adulthood A one-of-a-kind, hands-on camp designed by middle schoolers for middle schoolers! Focused on equipping young teens with essential life skills: Cooking Budgeting Emergency preparedness And more! While building confidence, independence, and social-emotional know-how. Monday-Thursday, June 23-26, 9:00am-3:00pm @ GlenOak High School register now Register for Explore Adulthood! Camp Explore: Adulthood - [Camp What If You Could](https://www.tomtodideas.org/camp-wiyc/) - Camp What If You Could At TomTod Ideas, middle schoolers don’t just dream big—they make things happen. Across programs like What If 101, Camp What If, What If You Could, and more, students explore their ideas, collaborate with peers, and take real steps toward creating change in their communities. During Camp What If You - [Camp What If Canton](https://www.tomtodideas.org/camp-what-if-canton/) - Camp What If: Canton The go-to free summer camp for middle schoolers leaving 5th-8th grade to explore their city, create and pitch ideas, and spark positive community change. They'll visit a broad range of organizations, speak with community leaders, and explore what makes Canton tick. register now Camp What If Schedule While every - [Partner with TomTod](https://www.tomtodideas.org/partner-with-tomtod/) - PROGRAMMATIC COLLABORATION Looking to deepen your impact with middle schoolers? Collaborate with TomTod to bring our curriculum, training, and professional development to your school or organization. From tailored Community Quests to hands-on educator training, we’ll work alongside you to equip your team and empower your students—all with a deep commitment to early adolescent best practices - [Better Box](https://www.tomtodideas.org/better-box/) - North Canton Middle Schoolers Bring Mental Health Resource to the Community The "Better Box" idea began with Tessa, a 6th-grader in TomTod's What If 101 program, where middle schoolers were asked a simple question: "What if you could create something to help your community?" After learning about the mental health challenges in her community, - [Crenshaw Middle Schoolers Collaborate with Stark Library Re|imagine](https://www.tomtodideas.org/stark-library/) - Crenshaw Middle School 7th and 8th graders examining 3D renderings of downtown Canton with Stark Library staff. Crenshaw Middle Schoolers Collaborate with Stark Library Re|imagine Stark Library's Re|imagine 2.0 project envisions a new Main Library in downtown Canton, serving as a center for learning and knowledge, and a "third space" where people gather to - [The Eagles Nest](https://www.tomtodideas.org/eagles-nest/) - Delilah, Olivia, Noah, Serena, Auria, Maci, and Bailey standing in the space that will become the Eagles Nest. Oakwood Middle Schoolers Design Multi-Use Outdoor Space for Their School Thanks to the creativity and initiative of Oakwood Middle School students in What If 101, and a winning team from Stark Idea Quest, The Eagles Nest - [Pininit Akron](https://www.tomtodideas.org/pininit-akron/) - Akron Middle Schoolers put a "pin in" Akron neighborhoods During 2024 Camp What If: Akron at Summit Lake Community Center, middle schoolers explored the community of Akron, discovering new neighborhoods and cultures apart from just their own. During camp, a simple question was posed to middle schoolers: "What if you could create something that - [Camp Explore Akron Placemakers](https://www.tomtodideas.org/camp-explore-akron-placemakers/) - Camp Explore: Akron Placemakers A four-day creative placemaking camp for middle schoolers leaving 5th-8th grade. Dive into neighborhood discovery, uncover hidden gems, and become an active leader in shaping your neighborhood! July 21-24, 9:00am-3:00pm at Firestone Park Community Center. register now Middle schoolers are full of community curiosity - let's give them the opportunity - [Andrea Bio](https://www.tomtodideas.org/andrea-bio/) - Andrea Capuano Senior Operations Lead Contact Andrea for: Organizational strategy Systems Team development Andrea Capuano joins TomTod Ideas as our Senior Operations Lead, bringing a powerhouse mix of administrative know-how, leadership savvy, and a can-do attitude. She’s the kind of person who jumps in wherever needed—whether that means streamlining processes, - [The Feast of Ideas](https://www.tomtodideas.org/feast-of-ideas/) - Save the Date: May 8th, 2025! Book your babysitter, pull out your favorite party dress, and dust off your dress shoes... the Feast will be here before you know it! Together we'll reflect on where we've been, cheer on the amazing middle schoolers shaping today, and dream big about what's next for them - [Guest Opt-In](https://www.tomtodideas.org/guest/) - Connect with students! In all TomTod programs, we connect middle schoolers to members of their own community to broaden their perspectives. Whether you run a business, volunteer on a board, or just enjoy living and working in the community, your perspective is valuable to our students! ​Fill out the survey below to let us know - [Clubs](https://www.tomtodideas.org/clubs/) - Creator Club After-School Club TomTod’s Creator Club connects middle schoolers' imaginations with real opportunities to contribute to local organizations during their after-school or out-of-school time programs. Middle schoolers want to explore outside the classroom, create with their hands, and have their voices heard. Creator Club invites middle schoolers to brainstorm ideas and create needed community - [Pat Bio](https://www.tomtodideas.org/pat-bio/) - Patrick Gerber Lead Adventure Curator Contact Patrick for: Programmatic partnership opportunities Interest in becoming an Adventure Curator Patrick Gerber is the Team Guide and leads the Adventure Curator team. Patrick graduated from Malone University in 2015 with a degree in Organizational Management, and he has studied Child Development at Portland State and Mount Union. - [Jacob Bio](https://www.tomtodideas.org/jacob-bio/) - Jacob Cook Adventure Coach Jacob graduated with a bachelors from Ashland University and a master's in counseling and human development, specializing in school counseling from Walsh University. Since then he has worked in various roles in the community including the YMCA and substitute teaching, as well as joining TomTod as a - [Camp What If North Canton](https://www.tomtodideas.org/camp-what-if-north-canton/) - Be the first to hear about Summer 2025! Summer 2025 Expression of Interest Form Why Camp What If: North Canton? No cost to families TomTod devotes time year-round securing funding for Camp What If so that no middle schooler or their family pays to attend. Affordable camps for middle schoolers are few and - [Zane Bio](https://www.tomtodideas.org/zane-bio/) - Zane Sanders Adventure Curator Contact Zane for: Volunteering as a Community Guest Zane Sanders has been working as an Adventure Curator at TomTod Ideas since 2019. As an Adventure Curator, Zane works directly with middle schoolers through our programming in classes, clubs, and camps. Zane is instrumental in creating TomTod curriculum along with organizing - [Colleen Bio](https://www.tomtodideas.org/colleen-bio/) - Colleen Carl Head Bean aka Finance Director Contact Colleen for: Accounts Payable Accounts Receivable Donor tax documents Colleen Carl, TomTod's Finance Director earned her MBA in Finance from Kent State University. She manages all accounts payable and receivable as well as TomTod's standard operating procedures. She spends most of her work day in Quickbooks - [Target Circle](https://www.tomtodideas.org/target/) - TomTod is a Nonprofit Partner! TomTod Ideas was selected by Target Circle to be a nonprofit partner from July 1 to September 30. As a Nonprofit Partner, we are eligible for a grant from Target for at least $500 with the opportunity to be awarded even more with your votes. How it works - [parent survey thank you](https://www.tomtodideas.org/parent-survey-thank-you/) - Thank you! Thank you for your feedback! We are committed to providing quality programming at no cost to middle schoolers or their families thanks to our community sponsors, program funders, and individual donors. You can pay it forward for more middle schoolers by making a donation in any amount! Make a Donation Give - [Birthday](https://www.tomtodideas.org/birthday/) - [WIYC pdf](https://www.tomtodideas.org/wp-content-uploads-2024-05-wiyc-pdf/) - [Camp Explore Canton Middle School](https://www.tomtodideas.org/canton-explore/) - Camp Explore Middle School Canton Summer Camp for Canton students transitioning to middle school this fall! Location: Crenshaw Middle School Monday, June 24th-Thursday, June 27th 9am-1pm Register today! 2023 Outcomes Sign up for Explore Middle School in Canton! Register today! Middle School Transition Program Camp Explore Middle School is a middle school transition - [Camp Explore Food & Move](https://www.tomtodideas.org/camp-food-and-move/) - Camp Explore Food & Move Summer Camp for Canton middle schoolers Explore what makes a healthy community! July 30th-August 2nd Tuesday-Friday 10am-3pm Location: North Canton Middle School Register for July 30th-August 2nd Camp Explore: Food and Move invites creative middle schoolers to explore how to make themselves and their communities healthier. Campers - [Camp Explore North Canton Middle School](https://www.tomtodideas.org/north-canton-explore/) - Camp Explore Middle School North Canton Summer Camp for North Canton students transitioning to middle school this fall! Two weeks to choose from! Only register for one week per camper. July 30th-August 2nd Tuesday-Friday 10am-3pm Location: North Canton Middle School Register for July 30th-August 2nd August 6th-9th Tuesday-Friday 10am-3pm Location: North Canton - [Contact Us](https://www.tomtodideas.org/contact/) - Phone 330-617-4753 Email dreamon@tomtodideas.org Address 439 Market Avenue North, Canton, Ohio 44702 We do have parking! If you're coming from the north, take Market Ave. toward downtown, wave as you pass our front door and turn right on 4th. Enjoy the sight of beautiful Centennial Plaza, then turn right on Court Ave. Do you feel like you're - [Walkie Talkie Community Survey](https://www.tomtodideas.org/survey101/) - [Post WI101 Eval](https://www.tomtodideas.org/eval101/) - [Opt-In Form](https://www.tomtodideas.org/opt-in-form/) - [Idea Collection Form](https://www.tomtodideas.org/idea101/) - [Family Dashboard](https://www.tomtodideas.org/family/) - Welcome! Whether you're here because your child is in a TomTod program at school, attended camp, or you're just looking for some resources for your middle schooler, you're in the right place! At TomTod, we create programming specifically for middle schoolers, and only middle schoolers, because we believe they matter. While young children and high - [Links](https://www.tomtodideas.org/links/) - Donate Now Join the team! Subscribe - [Blog](https://www.tomtodideas.org/blog/) ## Custom Templates - [Footer](https://www.tomtodideas.org/crio_page_header/footer/) - TomTod Ideas About Team Who We Are Storyboard Newsletter Careers Annual Report Programs Summer Programs Classes & Clubs Project Mentoring Giving Donate Now Endowment TomTod Ideas is a 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization. Tax ID (EIN): 46-0732616. - [Header](https://www.tomtodideas.org/crio_page_header/header/) - [Inner Header](https://www.tomtodideas.org/crio_page_header/inner-header/) - kayla@tomtodideas.org 330-617-4753 ## Team - [Sarah Gott](https://www.tomtodideas.org/team/sarah-gott/) - [Danisia Jebose](https://www.tomtodideas.org/team/danisia-jebose/) - [Joel Daniel Harris](https://www.tomtodideas.org/team/joel-daniel-harris/) - [Pat Gerber](https://www.tomtodideas.org/team/pat-gerber/) - [Kayla DeVitto](https://www.tomtodideas.org/team/kayla-devitto/) ## Posts - [Attribution](https://www.tomtodideas.org/attribution/) - This site has been created with the help of many different people and companies.This site was built on a powerful, Inspirations based web builder called BoldGrid. It is running on WordPress, the most popular content management software online today. Web hosting support is provided by DreamHost. Additional functionality provided by: WP Canvas - Gallery ## Block Library - [ACT Home Page](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/act-home-page/) - Middle schoolers are some of the most creative, curious, empathetic, determined, authentic, and brave people you’ll meet.And they’re not just the future—they’re changing the world right now.Frankly, we think the rest of us could learn a thing or two from them.10 days.500 donors.Because middle schoolers matter.From September 2-10, we’re inviting you to Act Like a Middle - [Feast Register Today](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/feast-register-today/) - The Feast of IdeasFor 12 years, we've celebrated, honored, and listened to middle schoolers' voices.This is your chance at a front row seat to hear them for yourself.Thursday, May 8th, 6:30pm Learn More and RSVP today! - [we're hiring](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/were-hiring/) - We're Hiring! See Openings - [school partners](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/school-partners/) - [camp locations](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/camp-locations/) - City of Canton CAMP WHAT IF City of Akron CAMP WHAT IF PLACEMAKERS ARTSPLORATIONS Stark County STARK MAKERS Summit County COMING SOON - [CWI Schedule](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/cwi-schedule/) - Camp What If ScheduleWhile every day at camp is different, this will give you an idea of the flow.During the first four days, we spend time getting to know each other, exploring the community, and talking to community leaders. Campers take all their learnings, dive into Design Thinking, and come up with ideas to help - [Feast Registration](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/feast-registration/) - DetailsEmployers Health HQThursday, May 8th, 6:30pm4723 Fulton Dr NWCanton, OH 44718Dinner catered by Employers Health with a cash bar.Celebration attire requested.RSVP by Friday, April 18th. RSVP or Give today! - [camp what sets apart](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/camp-what-sets-apart/) - Camp What If: What Sets Us Apart MIDDLE SCHOOLERS MATTER Middle schoolers don’t just listen—they have a voice. Using Design Thinking skills, they’ll brainstorm hundreds of ideas, develop one with a team, and present it to an audience of invested community members during Friday’s closing program. HIGH QUALITY PROGRAMMING Camp What If is often compared to many community leadership programs offered - [what sets us apart](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/what-sets-us-apart-2/) - Camp What If: What Sets Us Apart MIDDLE SCHOOLERS MATTER Middle schoolers don’t just listen—they have a voice. Using Design Thinking skills, they’ll brainstorm hundreds of ideas, develop one with a team, and present it to an audience of invested community members during Friday’s closing program. HIGH QUALITY PROGRAMMING Camp What If is often compared to many community leadership programs offered - [What Sets Us Apart](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/what-sets-us-apart/) - OUR STRATEGYMiddle schoolers first. We know middle schoolers are exploring their place in the world. We know the world tends to tell them to wait until they're older. Not us. From the activities to our staff to the space we're in, we create experiences for middle schoolers to see themselves as community leaders.01Highly Experienced StaffTomTod’s - [cwi outcomes](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/cwi-outcomes/) - After Camp What If, here's what campers can do... 90%confidently collaborate with adults and other campers 86%learn to research real problems in the real world 94%use their creativity and critical thinking to solve problems 85%confidently present their ideas to adults and community members*based on self-reported data from 2024 campers - [Free camp](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/free-camp/) - FREE for middle schoolers and their families!Go ahead and do a happy dance!Thanks to our community partners, including cities and school districts, sponsors, and individual donors who believe middle schoolers matter, all summer programming is free to middle schoolers and their families.Curious how a free summer program can impact you and your child? Read about Andrew - [Clouds Quote](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/clouds-quote/) - "Andrew taught me things I didn't know - it brought the community into our home." - [Main Page Hero](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/main-page-hero/) - We believe middle schoolers matter.At TomTod Ideas, we imagine a future where middle schoolers are valued as community members who can make meaningful change. Explore more - [Donation page badges](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/donation-page-badges/) - [give hero](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/give-hero/) - Give to empower middle schoolers like Meia.Your donation empowers middle schoolers to help their community thrive.Give now - [3 by 3 block](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/3-by-3-block/) - [act campaign home page](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/act-campaign-home-page/) - Act Like a Middle SchoolerSeptember 3rd-13thWe believe middle schoolers are brave, imaginative, creative, adventurous, fun, driven, empathetic, curious, energetic, and resilient. So act like a middle schooler! Your community will thank you. Donate now - [top rated](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/top-rated/) - [Camp Dashboard](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/camp-dashboard/) - [register hero](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/register-hero/) - Ready to register? Choose your week - [camp info](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/camp-info/) - CWI: AkronSummer Camp for Akron Middle Schoolers with TomTod IdeasLocated in Summit Lake and Middlebury NeighborhoodsAkron middle schoolers are invited to register for Camp What If this summer!Only one week of camp per camper. Only middle schoolers who live in the City of Akron are eligible to attend.Register for free summer day camp from TomTod - [faq](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/faq/) - Who is TomTod Ideas?​We are a youth development nonprofit working to change the conversation about middle schoolers. TomTod empowers middle schoolers to explore and launch ideas that put empathy and imagination into action to help their community thrive. We do this through Classes, Clubs, Camps, and Collabs. All programming is free to middle schoolers and - [camp details](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/camp-details-2/) - Camp ExploreStark MakersSummer Camp for Stark County Middle SchoolersExplore manufacturing in your community with TomTod Ideas!Stark County Middle Schoolers leaving 5th-8th grade are invited to register for Stark Makers this summer!Only one week of camp per camper.Registration for Makers is now full! Join the Waitlist for any week to be contacted if a spot opens. Spots - [camp details](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/camp-details/) - CWI: CantonSummer Camp for Canton Middle Schoolers with TomTod IdeasOnly middle schoolers leaving 5th through 8th grade who live in the City of Canton are eligible for CWI: Canton.Unsure if you qualify? Check your address here.Location:National First Ladies Library Museum205 Market Ave S, Canton, OH 44702(drop off details will be sent the week before camp)Week - [camp hero](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/camp-hero/) - Be the first to hear about Summer 2025!Summer 2025 Expression of Interest Form - [camp info doodles](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/camp-info-doodles/) - No cost to familiesTomTod devotes time year-round securing funding for Camp What If so that no middle schooler or their family pays to attend. Affordable camps for middle schoolers are few and far between. Free camp for the win!Quality camp staffTo be hired as a camp counselor (or Pathfinder, as we call them) all applicants - [doodle with copy](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/doodle-with-copy/) - MedicalRobust, low deductible healthcare coverage with 75% of premium covered.Paid Time Off"The most generous PTO plan I've ever experienced," Patrick, AC and Team Guide 12 paid holidays (including three days for Thanksgiving!) and lots of PTO! Vision & DentalAccess to discounted plans for your sights and smiles. - [hero](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/hero/) - We believe middle schoolers matter.At TomTod Ideas, middle schoolers are listened to, honored, celebrated, and advocated for. Learn more Looking for summer camps for your middle schooler?Camp What If: Canton, Camp What If: Akron, and Camp Explore: Stark Makers registrations are now open! CWI: Canton registration CWI: Akron registration Stark Makers registration Sign up to be notified when other camp registrations - [program partners](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/program-partners/) - Program Partners - [cwi info](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/cwi-info/) - What Sets Us ApartCommunity-Based ProgrammingCamp What If is centered around a specific community. Middle schoolers from that community explore their city, meet community leaders, and create ideas that will directly affect their neighbors. In 2023, CWI weeks occurred in Canton, Akron, and North Canton.Middle Schoolers MatterCampers don't just listen to what adults are saying about - [average day schedule camp](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/average-day-schedule-camp/) - An average day atCamp What IfWhile every day is different at camp, this will give you an idea of the flow. The first half of the week, we spend time exploring the community and talking to community leaders. The second half of the week switches to ideation. Campers take all their learnings from the week, - [Explorers copy](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/explorers-copy/) - Middle School Transition ProgramCamp Explore Middle School is a middle school transition and mentoring program that helps students feel excited, prepared, and less nervous about starting middle school.The goal of Explore Middle School is to empower middle schoolers to investigate and discover answers to the questions, concerns, and curiosities they have about transitioning to middle - [Explorers graphs](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/explorers-graphs/) - Help your elementary students transition to middle school with What If: Explorers! Email us - [info block](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/info-block/) - DetailsThe Reserve at Stone Creek7840-A Wales Ave. NWNorth Canton, Ohio 44720Thursday, May 9th6:30pmDinner by Chef Demond Germany.Cash bar.Celebration attire requested.More info to come! RSVP today! - [corporate sponsor](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/corporate-sponsor/) - Sponsors to date, Spring 2024Interested in Sponsorship Opportunities? Send us an email! - [partnering schools](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/partnering-schools/) - [wi101 strategy](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/wi101-strategy/) - OUR STRATEGY01Project-Based Implementation of SELUsing the latest research from sources such as CASEL and Buck Institute for Education, and by collaborating with local community partners across industries such as city government, parks and recreation, libraries, small businesses, and nonprofits, we provide opportunities for students to practice SEL skills including empathy, self-awareness, responsible decision-making, and social awareness.02Student AutonomyWe honor students’ perspectives - [bios](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/bios/) - Joel Daniel HarrisExecutive DreamerJoel Daniel Harris is the founder and Executive Dreamer of TomTod Ideas.Working with middle schoolers through TomTod is JDH’s passion because “middle schoolers live in this prime real estate at the intersection of intellectual ability, imaginative capacity, and passionate energy. There is no group of more awkward, more lovable people on the - [bio](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/bio/) - Joel Daniel HarrisExecutive DreamerJoel Daniel Harris is the founder and Executive Dreamer of TomTod Ideas.Working with middle schoolers through TomTod is JDH’s passion because “middle schoolers live in this prime real estate at the intersection of intellectual ability, imaginative capacity, and passionate energy. There is no group of more awkward, more lovable people on the - [5 column](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/5-column/) - [5 columns](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/5-columns/) - [logos](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/logos/) - InspireImagineIlluminateIdeaFriends of TomTodLeader's Edge - [percentages](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/percentages/) - Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Nullam eu dignissim tortor, sit amet bibendum lacus. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Nullam eu dignissim tortor, sit amet bibendum lacus. Heading 20% Heading 40% Heading 60% Heading 100% - [numbers](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/numbers/) - 52 Happy Customers 13 Answered Questions 38 Completed Projects 15 Awards Won - [Gallery 10](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/gallery-10/) - We Love Our Fans Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. - [gallery](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/gallery/) - [About with quote](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block/about-with-quote/) - What Sets Us ApartCommunity-Based ProgrammingCamp What If is centered around a specific community. Middle schoolers from that community explore their city, meet community leaders, and create ideas that will directly affect their neighbors. In 2023, CWI weeks occurred in Canton, Akron, and North Canton.Middle Schoolers MatterCampers don't just listen to what adults are saying about ## Categories - [Uncategorized](https://www.tomtodideas.org/./uncategorized/) ## Designations - [Lead Story Guide](https://www.tomtodideas.org/team_designation/lead-story-guide/) - [Team Guide & Adventure Curator](https://www.tomtodideas.org/team_designation/team-guide-adventure-curator/) - [Executive Dreamer](https://www.tomtodideas.org/team_designation/executive-dreamer/) - [Lead Community Catalyst](https://www.tomtodideas.org/team_designation/lead-community-catalyst/) - [Adventure Curator](https://www.tomtodideas.org/team_designation/adventure-curator/) ## Template Location - [Header](https://www.tomtodideas.org/template_location/header/) - [Footer](https://www.tomtodideas.org/template_location/footer/) ## Block Types - [gallery](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block-types/gallery/) - [text](https://www.tomtodideas.org/bg-block-types/text/)