iCamp

If you haven't heard the pitch, here it is - iCamp is a new type of summer camp we designed from the ground up here at our church for 9-12 year olds. The main event was an afternoon community project each day - we called up nonprofits around the city and asked, “Hey, we’re here, how can we help?”. Then we sent teams of kids to accomplish those projects. So we did everything from yardwork at people’s houses to walking dogs at the humane society to sorting, folding, & racking the store-room at Salvation Army.

iCamp ran Mon-Fri, and each morning we had our two resident kids-games-professionals lead strategic games for each team of kids. For example, picture two 10-foot planks lying on the ground parallel, with foot straps (like skis), 4 kids lined up single file, each with feet in the ski straps. The only way to move is to step in unison as a team throughout the obstacle course, and then you have to do it blindfolded :-). The fastest team wins the points, and each day points accumulate to an awards ceremony at the end of the week.

Wednesday night included a lock-in here at the church (or as I will remember it, "the neverending pillow fight"). We also had mini church services at the beginning and end of each day to give context to what we're doing - we're not just trying to be good people here, we're trying to connect to a larger purpose we think God is inviting us into. We're aiming to see great things happen for us as we try to help others. In churchy terms, we're not just hoping for good things from afar, we're hoping to be the miracle for people and businesses all over Twin Falls. What struck me was the growth and learning that took place seemingly every day. Anyone who works with kids can tell you it's hard to tell if you're making any sort of immediate impact - often the growth is more long-term. Each day, though, I heard things like:

I didn't know the Humane Society did this everyday.

I'm so glad we were able to help those people.

I can't imagine doing this all day long like the people who work here.

Two favorite stories. #1: Doing yardwork one day at an elderly man's house -- I'll call him Tom -- Tom came out of his house, loudly and cheerfully thanked all the kids for their help, and then turned to me with a quieter look on his face. Tom is a widower of only two months. "I just wanted to say thank you to these kids for their help. I haven't been able to come out here since my wife died." He started to cry, and continued with some additional kind words. Turns out it was also the hottest day of our summer so far in Twin Falls that day, so between the painful memories and 100 degree heat, Tom was thankful for the kids' help.

#2: While at The Safe House (transition house for orphans or abused children/teens), 3 iCamp girls were sorting clothes in a closet, when in walked a 14 year old girl who had just come from being strangled by mom. She was there to get help/clothes/food. The Director asked our adult volunteer if the girl could come into the closet to pick out some clothes. Well, the 3 girls who were in the closet totally welcomed in this girl with excitement and interest, helped the girl pick out clothes, got to know her, etc. It was anything and everything they could do to show love to her, and they did it without thinking.

Also, a secular children's organization has shown interest in sending over a large swath of kids to join us next year for iCamp 2011. We're pumped! Thanks again to all the volunteers - without which iCamp wouldn't have happened - many of whom took time off work to be a part. Can't wait for next year!