A Message from Brian to Our Camper Parents

September 7, 2017

Greetings Parents/Guardians:

I write to you with two purposes in mind; to tell you about Camp 2017 and to seek your help/input.

Camp 2017

This was my 31st year as director and what a great year is was!  We had 80 campers – 50 returners, 30 first-timers and 22 campers were “generational!”  Our greatest demographic was unchurched campers – 39%.  And that is one of the greatest things about this year – having that percentage hear the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  To hear of His unconditional love, grace and mercy for all people.  This was accomplished through some wonderful speaker presentations, the planning and guidance offered by counselors, and the overall program. 

Now my question to those that sent the campers – why?  Why do/did you send them to a Christian Youth Camp?  It is my sincere and fervent hope that it was because you want them learn of Jesus Christ and what He has done for them.  If that’s the case, then my challenge – find a church home where you, as a family, can worship together and together grow in the love and ways of the Lord! Some great “planting” occurred at camp – now what was planted needs to be “fertilized, nurtured and watered” so that it can continue to take hold. :)

We Need You…

The Camp Planning Board is always in need of new people.  There are a few ways you can help:

  • As a board member –
    • At this time we are need of a new facilitator.  This person helps to organize the agenda [with input from the director among others], they “facilitate” the meetings, and they send out meeting reminders via email.  That’s pretty much the extent of the position. The board meets once a month – August-November & January-July.
    • We also need someone to handle Marketing & Outreach.  This person will work closely with the director and our website & social media Queen – Caitlin Lewis.
  • We would like to have a list of volunteers for various projects that arise…we always need people to help with camp set-up/clean-up and food delivery and help in the kitchen.
  • Would you be interested in being part of the Director’s Advisory team?

Of a more immediate concern… We are discussing potentially changing the order of the camp weeks.  Currently it runs, grade school, high school, middle school.  Other things we are discussing and needing your input – a 2 ½ day high school retreat instead of a whole week and ending grade school and middle school early on Thursday [currently ends at 7:00 pm].

Our next meeting is scheduled for Sunday September 24 at 6pm at Hope Lutheran Church-Tonasket – all are welcome!  Please share your thoughts and any other input who may have – I won’t guarantee that changes will be made, but can guarantee that there will be no change without your valuable input!  The easiest way to have your concerns heard is by contact me by emailing: deacon@ncidata.com.  Thank you for your continued support of this amazing ministry!  I look forward to hearing from you…soon. :)

Blessings,

 

Brian Bowes

Director – Ortoha Youth Camp