Everyone likes a great story. Even very young children will sit still to hear their favorite story. They even love to hear the same story over and over again.
Stories shape our lives. They are a reflection of who we are and express our hopes and our dreams, our failures and our struggles.
Most of us can remember many good stories as well as difficult stories from our childhood. For kids living below the poverty line, their stories are often marked by challenge and hardship. They often need to grow up early, taking on adult responsibilities in the home while parents are working extra jobs. Poverty creates a whole host of challenges that put pressure on all family members, especially kids.
Building memories away from the day to day grind can really change our perspective. That is why Ciudad Nueva works so hard to send kids from our after-school programs to summer camp. We know that creating positive stories for these kids can have a lasting impact. It can help our kids see new possibilities for their lives, help them grow in confidence, and give them opportunities to work through tough situations. Summer camp is a perfect place to make new life stories.
Share your camp story with #whatsyourcampstory
This year, we would like you to share your camp stories and also help create new stories for some of the kids in our programs. Share your story with us on social media using the hashtag #whatsyourcampstory. Then consider partnering with us by donating to our summer camp program.
Our goal is to raise $75k by June 6th, right before elementary, middle, and high school camps begin. You can give online through our summer camp fundraising campaign or send a check to 810 N. Campbell St., El Paso, TX 79902. Feel free to share your story on our page with #whatsyourcampstory.
Let’s get started on the camp adventures!
Here are a few camp stories to get you reminiscing about your own fond memories of water wars, cafeteria food (it always tasted so good!), and laughter in the bunks. We hope you will share your stories also!
High School Student
“My week in camp was amazing. Even though this wasn’t my first time at Young Life camp, it was a great experience. I decided to finally give my life to Christ. I was surrounded by great leaders that showed me what real love is. Camp helped me get away from troubles back at home and experience an adventure. I’m so thankful for this opportunity. Without it I wouldn’t have realized how important giving our life to God is.”
#whatsyourcampstory
8th Grade Student
“My favorite things about camp were the messy games and the great skits. I got to meet many people that were from California. This is one of my favorites! I really had fun at the carnival, throwing a pie of shaving cream at the leaders. I really, really liked the club! I had so much fun singing and dancing and cheering for people! The best part was when Andi talked about how much Jesus loves us. I learned so much about God this year! Cabin time was a great opportunity to be able to talk to my leaders about how I felt about Jesus!”
#whatsyourcampstory
5th Grade Student
“Camp is the best. Even though it’s just for one weekend, it’s going to be the best weekend of your life. All you have to do is be brave. Don’t get nervous. Once you do any activity you might not stop playing it. My favorite part was the zipline. You will have to go through the worst but at the end it is worth it. Everything is fun at camp. You should all go.”
#whatsyourcampstory
Emily’s Story (Ciudad Nueva volunteer)
“Some of my favorite memories as a camp counselor involved watching kids who were not familiar with nature and all that it brings — bugs, itches, and beauty — challenge themselves and learn to appreciate the outdoors. I watched girls ride through the woods on mountain bikes, enjoying the new adventure, or float lazily on a canoe, taking in the peaceful scenery. God was able to work in their lives through those unique outdoor encounters.
Camp was foundational to my walk with Christ. It was so special for me to have the opportunity to get away from the cement of the suburbs and the chaos of life and to have a week dedicated to learning about God. It was a place I could ask questions and spend time with mature Christians who I could look up to.”
#whatsyourcampstory
Carlie’s Story (Ciudad Nueva volunteer)
“I grew up going to summer camps in Cloudcroft from when I was six years old until I turned eighteen. They really should have summer camps for adults! I would have kept going! Those weeks were some of the most cherished memories of my life. Going away from home taught me to be brave and independent. I met and made wonderful friends, and had great life experiences. I wish everyone could go to camp.”
#whatsyourcampstory
So what is your camp story?
Camp stories are the best. We are sure you have some great stories to tell, and maybe a few funny ones as well. As you share your memories, think of all the Ciudad Nueva students who will be experiencing their own camp stories this summer, many for very first time.
Thank you for partnering with us in this important ministry! Please share your camp story at www.facebook.com/ciudadnuevaelpaso and use the #whatsyourcampstory hashtag. We cannot wait to read your camp story!
If you would like to make a donation to help send 75 kids from our after-school programs to camp, you can click here to donate now or send a check to 810 N. Campbell St., El Paso, TX 79902. Thank you for your support!
