Current summer staffer, Jarren Jenkins shared how camp has influenced his life and his career.
“Camp has been such an important part of my life, especially growing up and learning about my faith. One of the biggest things for me was working with campers with special needs. Whenever I first started out, I had very little idea how much of a difference it really was going to be when working with them. However, as the Lord provided opportunities for me to learn and improve, I found how much of a joy it was. It helped me to learn to broaden my perspective on things both spiritually and socially. I went from being worried about if I was going to do something wrong to being super excited when I’d see them on the roster.
Not only has it helped me to better understand God’s love for everyone, but it also has since influenced me outside of camp. The easiest example of this would be my job! As of writing this, I have finished my first school year in an Autistic Support classroom in an elementary school. This would not have been anywhere on my radar had God not given the opportunities to minister to special needs kids in a camp setting. It has also influenced the overall way I see other people, and how much I want everyone to be able to experience God’s care for them no matter their situation. I cannot imagine how much things would be different if I hadn’t listened to God’s guidance in an unfamiliar environment.”
Alumni, Shari (Caufman) Martin shared a similar memory.
“I remember as a child, I didn’t want to come to camp. I didn’t like the thought of staying in a cabin with people I didn’t know. My parents made me come to camp despite my protests. But I loved it! I came every summer and when I was old enough, I became a CIT (Counselor in Training). I got involved with Living Miracles and as a result, ended up meeting the man I would eventually marry (Kevin Martin – who sang with New Dimension).
There was a summer when I was asked to serve with HandiVenture camp. I was hesitant to help. I wasn’t sure how to work with disabled people and I was scared. I signed up anyway. God gave me a very special young lady as a camper that week and I have never forgotten her. I LOVED helping with HandiVenture and helped every summer after that for as long as I could.
Being a part of Joy El with camp and serving as a counselor, working in the kitchen with the Needy’s, prepared me for a life of service to children and adults with special needs. I still enjoy helping with camping ministry and now serve every year for a week with a camp for foster children. Joy El will always have a special place in my heart.”
