The Weekly Word: Trust & Transformation
Thank you to Jordan for allowing us to share his story today
Every year at Eagle Crest Camp there is a sense of excitement and a spirit that permeates every activity, every acre, every camper and every staff member. The camp season doesn’t start with this excitement for everyone though. For many this feeling comes after a confronting the anxiety and nerves that come along with a new experience. Especially for first time campers, Eagle Crest can appear overwhelming. It doesn’t take long for this to fade and give way to an impactful experience though. This is why we say “Camp Changes Lives” because it can change anyone’s outlook through fellowship, emotional/mental interaction, physical play, team challenges and overall growth. Camp Eagle Crest has something for all and The Salvation Army always ensures that every year we bring all who are interested to experience it no matter where they come from!
Jordan, age eleven, attended the character-building camp. He was not new to summer camp but had never attended one like Eagle Crest before. This unknown paired with his troubled home life made him very nervous. In the beginning he was a difficult camper. He didn’t want to listen to any of the counselors and he didn’t get along with any of the other children. Throughout camp the counselors worked diligently to make sure he felt safe, comfortable and knew he was welcomed. Slowly Jordan began to trust the counselors. He began to participate in the activities and interact with other campers. He smiled. He laughed. He began to have fun.
His fear eventually turned into an excitement and love for his “new home and new family.” At the close of camp, Jordan shared with us that he believed his experience at camp would help him deal with the various problems at home and that he would be better able to communicate with his mom in the future.
A simple but powerful change in one child’s life, but we see similar developments in everyone who attends one of our camps. From Science Math & Technology to the Performing Arts – there is a camp for everyone and a change waiting to take hold!
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