It’s hard to imagine, but this is our second camp season in a country at war. Just months after the invasion, we hosted two camps. After another year of change, worry, and grief, our community is ready for another retreat.
Camp costs:
$8,000 – Family camp (June)
$10,000 – Camp for students (August)
$18,000 – Total need
Youth often arrive at camp feeling hurt and alone… but they don’t leave that way. Staff member Sasha shared this story:
When Roma was twelve, his mother lost her parental rights. First he lived in an orphanage, then with Christian relatives. We met Roma when he began college. He’d been a Christian since he was fourteen, but in college he began taking his faith seriously.
Then Roma began dating a girl from school, and he drifted away from God and his church. When he and his girlfriend broke up, he was devastated. Four months of depression and unhealthy choices followed.
Roma at camp last year in a traditional vyshyvanka
Our team kept reaching out. Prayer, one-on-one time, walks, and especially camp helped Roma find purpose again. “I thank you and God for inviting me to youth camp in the Carpathians,” Roma wrote, “where God revealed Himself to me in a special way… Today I am free and happy. I go to church again and enjoy life.”
Now, Roma faithfully comes to our Day Center for mentorship, groceries, hygiene kits, clothes, and other help. He plays the cajón drum during worship, and volunteers with war relief efforts.
During camp, many young people like Roma are drawn to the sweetness of life with God. Will you help make it possible?
Thank you, friends!