A Transformative Summer

As the sun sets on another summer at Warm Beach Camp, we find ourselves reflecting on the countless stories of faith, joy, and transformation that unfolded across our grounds. From the laughter of day campers to the tender worship moments around campfires, this summer has been one of growth—not only for campers, but also for staff, volunteers, and guest groups who experienced the presence of God in powerful ways.

Seeds of Faith Planted in Day Camp

Day Camp Manager, Sara Kauffman, shared one of her most memorable moments of the summer when a camper received their very first Bible.

“One of my staff gave a camper a Bible upon discovery that they didn’t have one, and he excitedly exclaimed, ‘THANK YOU! This is where you learn all about Jesus!’ It was the best.”

For Sara, it was also inspiring to witness a young boy wrestling with deep spiritual questions who, by the fourth week, made a life-changing commitment to Christ.

“I will never forget that, or all the other ways that I got to see Jesus at work.”

Even the staff left the summer changed. One Day Camp counselor, when asked by his professor about the summer, replied, “It was such a fun summer!” Sometimes, the joy of serving is the greatest reward.

Healing and Worship with Guest Groups

Warm Beach Camp is not just a place for children—it’s a ministry that welcomes groups of all ages and backgrounds. Marlene Smith, Guest Services Manager, recalled a powerful story of healing among a visiting high school group.

“Behavior challenges were interceded with forgiveness and the group spontaneously linked arms in a giant circle at the front of the auditorium joining together in worship and singing praises to God!”

Moments like these remind us why partnerships like Kids 2 Camp scholarships are so vital. They not only make camp financially accessible, but they also open the door to deep spiritual growth and community restoration.

Another highlight for Marlene came from hosting a special needs camp for the third year in a row. Volunteers poured into Camp ready to serve as buddies; buddies are friends that help campers through their activities and time at Camp. There were so many people willing to serve with their time that the buddies part of the program had a volunteer waitlist!

“On the final night, as the worship team sang Jesus Loves Me, the buddies tenderly washed the feet of their campers.”

These moments embody the heart of Warm Beach Camp—where service, love, and worship intersect.

Joy in the Everyday Moments

Not all highlights came in big, dramatic moments—some were found in simple joys. Kurt von Pessler, Recreation Director, reflected on the impact of outdoor activities for campers with disabilities:

“I had the joy of seeing campers experience activities that they rarely get to do such as swimming or floating around in the pool being free of any physical constraints. When at the tower they had opportunities to ‘climb’ on their own power or with the help of a hoist team… This was so priceless!!!”

The recreation program continues to be a powerful way for campers to build confidence, experience freedom, and celebrate their God-given abilities. And reminds us that these moments can be just as transformative as chapel moments.

God’s Provision All Summer Long

Perhaps the overarching theme of summer 2025 was God’s faithful provision. Liz McBride, Marketing Assistant, recalled going into the season worried that there weren’t enough volunteers for Camp SunSparrow, which serves adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Out of four weeks, only one was fully staffed at the start. But God had other plans:

“What a journey of faith it was this summer, praying for God’s provision and then watching Him show up in unexpected ways. We had an incredible summer of serving adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. What an encouragement to watch how God provided for our needs every week.”

This story is a beautiful reminder that while our plans may fall short, God’s plans are always more than enough.

Looking Back—and Ahead

The summer at Warm Beach Camp was filled with unforgettable memories, heart-stirring worship, and countless stories of transformation. From children learning about Jesus for the first time to adults experiencing community and healing, this Camp remains a sacred space where lives are changed.

As we look ahead to next summer, we carry with us the testimonies of campers, staff, and volunteers who remind us why Warm Beach Camp exists: to draw people closer to Christ through community, adventure, and worship.