Summer Adventure Camp: New Friendships and Lasting Memories
Last week, New Song Mission hosted its second Summer Adventure Camp of the summer, welcoming boys and girls ages 10–14 for a week filled with outdoor adventures, new friendships, and Christ-centered encouragement. While campers enjoyed a week of unforgettable experiences, the Lord was at work in even greater ways. Summer Adventure Camp continues to serve as a bridge to our full-time residential program, and this year, 12 students have expressed interest in enrolling this August. Of those, 11 were introduced to New Song through one of our Summer Adventure Camps!
Many campers were already part of the New Song family, including students like Amiri, Zayden, and Jaylen. Others joined through community partners such as Family Hope and Renewal Indy. One camper, Jenaeya, was introduced to New Song through Renewal Indy, where Director Mike Wilkins personally brought her to camp! Nearly half of the campers had previous connections with New Song, while the rest experienced the ministry for the very first time.
The boys stayed with New Song’s Director, Bob Schloss, in Faith House, who hosted five campers, while Marlin and Anita King lovingly cared for the four girls in Hope House. Having served together during both Summer Adventure Camps this year, the Kings helped create a welcoming environment where each child felt known, cared for, and included.
Throughout the week, campers enjoyed a variety of outdoor activities. Fishing quickly became a favorite, with everyone eager to see what they could catch. Kendall proudly reeled in a catfish, making for one of the week’s most exciting moments.
Amy Adams, New Song’s Office Administrator, who served as the camp photographer, shared, “I loved seeing the students interact and bond with each other throughout the week. They all LOVED fishing – it became a highlight of the week!”
One of the campers’ favorite moments of the week came during an epic game of water balloon volleyball. Armed with towels instead of their hands, teammates worked together to launch colorful water balloons soaring over the net, hoping they wouldn’t burst before the other team could catch them. Every successful volley was met with cheers, while exploding balloons sent campers into fits of laughter. Before long, staying dry was no longer the goal; everyone was soaked, smiling, and making memories together. The friendly competition gave campers another chance to build teamwork and encourage one another!
This year’s camp also introduced two new adventures: zip lining and horseback riding.
For Jaylen, the zip line became more than just an activity – it became an opportunity to overcome fear. He stood at the platform for several minutes, carefully considering whether to take the leap. As the other campers cheered him on with words of encouragement, “You got this Jaylen! Go Jaylen!” and with the promise of ice cream waiting at the bottom, Jaylen finally stepped off the platform and soared through the trees.
His courage was celebrated the best way campers know how – ice cream! Mr. Bob picked up two gallons of ice cream, complete with chocolate and strawberry syrup, and everyone enjoyed an ice cream party together after the day’s adventures.
From fishing and horseback riding to encouraging one another through fears, the week was filled with opportunities to grow in faith and confidence, build friendships, and create memories that will last long after summer ends. Thank you to all the staff, volunteers, and ministry partners who made this year’s Summer Adventure Camp possible and to each child who experienced the love of Christ through a week of adventure! Christ is at work in the lives of children at New Song!
Watch our Summer Camp slideshow video HERE!
