Twelve moments from camp that inspired me last year

By Vonda DenBoer,Director of Camping and Campground Sustainability

Over the past year, I had the opportunity to meet people in camps across Canada. Each camp setting and camping experience is unique, yet the overarching vision of restoring persons to healthy or righteous relationship with God, others, themselves, and the earth (Doctrine and Covenants 163:2b) is at the heart of every camp experience. Perhaps this shared purpose is part of what continually draws us back to camp.

As I reflect on the year, many moments stand out—each one a reminder of the beauty and diversity within our camping communities. Creativity and care show up everywhere. Here are some of the things that inspired me this year:

• Junior camp-in-a-camp kids proudly cleaning tables
• A youth confidently leading a trivia night
• Sharing a campfire blanket while making gluten-free s’mores
• An educational session on gender/sex being openly and respectfully received
• A class session using artwork to bring meaningful ideas to life
• Thoughtful attention given to all age groups
• A six year old giving KP instructions
• A senior delighting everyone with a silly skit
• Learning old camp songs with new lyrics
• Countless special moments captured in photos that serve as treasured memories
• Artistic, meaningful and so very diverse worship centers
• Treasured meditation moments using unusual music choices
  

All these experiences were possible because of dedicated leadership teams whose passion shapes their camp programs in unique and meaningful ways. The director serves almost as a maestro, ensuring all players know their parts and the resulting symphony is masterful.

Supporting camp leaders requires not only respect for their individual gifts but also a commitment to ensuring they are not overwhelmed. I invite you to ask a camp director how they are doing. Perhaps even offer to help with something. Your support—through prayers, ideas, volunteer time, and encouraging words—helps guide them in building inclusive, spirit-led, and intergenerational camping ministries that create sacred communities of safety and welcome.

Onward together in teaching love for one another!