When Young Leaders Rise

God was “up to something” this summer! Our theme reminded us daily that God is at work within us and that what is possible in God is far greater than we could ever ask or imagine.

Again and again, we witnessed campers and staff respond to a quiet but powerful call—stepping forward in faith, courage, and care for one another.

We saw this come to life as campers bravely included strangers in their circles, choosing kindness and connection even when it felt hard. We saw it in a staff made up largely of first-year leaders who quickly formed strong bonds and helped shape new aspects of our programming that will influence camp for years to come. And we saw it through the steady presence of pastors, youth workers, parents, and volunteers whose support made summer ministry possible. Through each of these people, God was at work, forming and sustaining this community.

One of the clearest expressions of this life-shaping call is our Community Guide program. Week after week, high school leaders stepped into meaningful responsibility, creating a camp experience rooted in belonging and leadership. They weren’t simply assisting—they were trusted to lead, to care, and to imagine themselves as part of camp’s future.

Shyla, a junior in high school, captured this spirit when she finished her first week as a Community Guide and said, “I would love to come back next week if needed!” She did—and now has applied to join our summer staff team officially. Stories like hers remind us that when young people are invited into meaningful leadership, lives begin to change.
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As our programs continue to grow, we remain focused on helping campers build confidence, resilience, and peace of mind. Walking alongside young people as they discover their gifts as co-creators with God is both challenging and deeply rewarding work—work we joyfully continue at the water’s edge.

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