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The Difference was Fred

 

“Life changes here”…a phrase you may have heard. This phrase doesn’t just apply to our campers and guests, but also our volunteers and staff. Often volunteers come to Warm Beach Camp to be part of something bigger than themselves, to help with programming, labor and other tasks. Little do they know the experience is often just as life changing for them as it is for the campers they serve.

This was exactly the case for Marcus Petterson, “Fred” here at Camp. Fred came to Special Friends Camp, Warm Beach Camp’s summer program for adults with disabilities, to volunteer six years ago with his grandpa at the age of 12. His grandpa wanted Fred to be part of something that mattered, a place where Fred could make a difference. A difference was definitely made, not just in the multitude of campers and staff members Fred worked alongside of, but also in Fred.

When Fred came to camp at age 12, he was painfully shy and was struggling as a middle school kid trying to find his way in the world. He was constantly bullied, felt different, and was teased endlessly for his red hair and unique personality. That first summer, Fred found a place where he could be himself and help others.

Each summer for the last six years, Fred has returned for the first Special Friends camp in June and stayed until the last camp in the middle of August. He was the first one in line to be part of the welcoming tunnel as campers arrive. Campers absolutely adore him!

During one of these summers, Fred found his gifting. Being part of Special Friends Camp inspired Fred to pursue his Bachelor’s degree as an ASL interpreter. Fred came to camp not sure of who he was or his place in the world, he just wanted something to do. Being a volunteer at Special Friends Camp changed him, transformed him, gave him a safe place to grow into himself each summer. He made life-long friendships and came to understand who he is in Christ instead of who the world thought he should be.

Come, be part of a life-changing week at Special Friends Camp. Bring your friends, and volunteer this summer! Learn more at www.warmbeach.com/specialfriends or call Faith Oates at 360.761.1267

Grateful for Generous Hearts

In the Horsemanship Program at Warm Beach Camp in Stanwood, WA, the volunteers assist in nearly every aspect of the program, from administrative tasks that uphold professionalism to serving in facility care. Volunteers help ensure the safety of our horses through well-maintained arena footing, repairing structures, and cleaning tack, allowing Warm Beach to continue being a good steward of all that has been entrusted to us. A weekly volunteer stated, “Through Horsemanship, I am learning how to care for horses ...

Unique Strengths of SunSparrow

When individuals are welcomed into an environment full of connection, inclusivity, and the love of Christ, transformation happens! They become active participants in the world around them and are reminded of their true worth. Camp SunSparrow is carefully constructed to help individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities build self-confidence and develop closer relationships with the Lord. Campers are encouraged to recognize their unique strengths and are allowed the time and space to share those with the group. Adriene Duguay, the ...
Students explore the forest at Outdoor School-Education-warm-beach-camp-Stanwood-WA

Hands On Outdoor Experiences

Across the 278 acres of land at Warm Beach Camp, there are wondrous little nooks and crannies teeming with life, just waiting to be explored! From a saltwater marsh to the upland forest and the bluffs that are perfectly designed to ease a bird's flight; the biodiversity is endless! With notebooks in hand, a quizzical eye, and curious minds, children step into a world of infinite possibilities! The Outdoor School Program at Warm Beach Camp is actively changing lives through ...