A few weeks ago, a member of our program team was visiting a church and asked a group of kids this question:
“Where did you see God at camp?”
One young girl thought about it for a moment and said,
“I’m not sure…but I definitely know when God saw me.”
Not when she saw God.
When God saw her.
This is the kind of moment camp makes possible.
These days when the world feels uncertain and many young people are carrying more stress and anxiety than ever, it might seem simple to talk about camp as field games, swimming, and campfires.
But what happens at camp is deeper than that.
Camp is one of the few places where kids step away from the pressure and noise of everyday life and discover something many of them are longing for – to be known, a place to belong, and feel that God sees them.
So many families are carrying a lot right now. Kids are carrying more than we sometimes realize. Many are searching for places where they can slow down, breathe, and remember who they are and whose they are.
That’s one reason camp matters so much right now.
This summer our theme is WONDER, inspired by Jesus’ words in Matthew 19:26: “With God, all things are possible.”
Wonder isn’t about pretending everything is easy. It’s what happens when we pause long enough to notice that God is still at work – even when life feels messy.
At camp, kids discover they belong. They build friendships rooted in kindness and find space to grow, laugh, and explore their faith.
Already this year we’re hearing from families asking if camp is even going to be possible for their child.
Because of generous supporters like you, we were able to provide $140,000 in camper scholarships last year, ensuring financial challenges didn’t keep kids from experiencing camp. Many families are sending multiple children or navigating financial pressures that make the full cost of camp difficult.
We hear from parents again and again:
“Thank you for helping make this possible. Our child needed this more than you know.”
As we prepare for another summer, your gift helps make these moments possible – supporting camper scholarships, caring for our spaces, and equipping the summer staff who guide campers in faith and community.
In a world that can feel uncertain, camp creates space and time where campers can WONDER.
Wonder in creation. Wonder in community. Wonder in a God who sees them and calls them beloved.
Would you consider making a gift today to help more kids experience camp this summer?
Your support ensures that when a child arrives at camp wondering if they belong, they leave knowing they are seen and loved.
Gratefully,
Heather Eggert
Executive Director