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Doing the Most Good- Sierra del Mar
Youth enjoy hikes, skits, spiritual renewal.
by Suzi Woodruff Lacey –
Young campers enjoy lots of activities. Photo by Stephen Ball |
A sprawling valley with expansive meadows, a large established pond, abundant wildlife and giant oak trees became a part of Sierra Del Mar’s camp as the division acquired a 242-acre ranch to increase the opportunities for young campers.
“It’s incredible how this opens up our camp for so much more adventure,” says Divisional Youth Secretary Captain Steve Ball, who explains that the established pond will also allow campers to study the many animals and plants found in and around the water.
Last summer, a record 998 children from Inland Empire, Imperial Valley and San Diego County attended camp. Children from low income families, children living in foster care, homeless children and those whose families were affected by a disaster all ran on the grass, found lizards, rode bikes, hiked, swam, laughed, put on skits, gobbled up delicious camp meals. Under the starry skies in Ramona, they sang songs, whispered secrets and listened intently as their counselors told them the good news of salvation. Many of the youth gave their lives to Jesus, taking home a powerful source of strength and joy.
This summer, campers will not only have those experiences, but new opportunities for fishing, boating, trail riding, nature study and wilderness camping. There are new places where kids can camp overnight in a safe, yet remote location. Ball hopes to create a teepee village, with five large teepee tents, each large enough for ten to twenty campers.
With high stress and the breakdown of families in our society, camp provides a place where the body, mind and spirit can be restored. There is no doubt; campers will be thrilled with their summer place of retreat, restoration and fun at the new Wildwood Ranch!
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