Eagle Lake Camps is based out of Colorado Springs and connected to the broader ministry of the Navigators. Each summer, college students dedicate ten weeks to sharing the gospel with kids all around the Midwest. From overnight camp to traveling day camps, this non-profit organization continues to impact the lives of children as well as adults in various communities. But how do they do this?

On the Eagle Lake Camps website their mission is clear: “Eagle Lake Camps inspires Christ-centered love and commitment through counselor relationships in the midst of exciting outdoor experiences.” When I joined the counselor staff last summer, I was surprised by the emphasis on counselor relationships. During training we were taught the importance of having intentional spiritual conversations (ISCs) with each camper every single week. Each day is full of Bible Studies, swimming, dancing, and so many fun outdoor activities that it was hard to imagine having the time to spend at least thirty minutes with each of my eight campers every week. In those moments throughout the summer, I realized this is how Eagle Lake Camps was and is having a kingdom impact. I cannot begin to explain the conversations I had about family, sickness, bullying, and Jesus that brought many tears but so much joy to my heart as well as the hearts of my campers. I remember leading a young child to Christ in that time as we talked about the truth found in the Bible. We then proceeded to run around the grass screaming and shouting for joy that heaven and all the angels were celebrating now that she had a relationship with Jesus!

When we think of impact on a large scale, it is easy to think of numbers, especially for a non-profit organization. After each day of camp, there is a time of debrief where we share the highs and lows of the day including awesome conversations and any salvation stories. Of course, salvation is a huge deal and an exciting one at that, but the conversation does not stop there with our campers and families. If one camper accepts Christ, the counselor celebrates with the parents at end-of-the-day pick up and the family receives resources and connections to Eagle Lake full time staff and local churches in the area. The focus on discipleship and relationships exemplifies the heart and mission of Jesus Christ as He modeled discipleship and desires to have a relationship with each person.

That summer, I understood the importance of community and relationships on a whole new level. I learned that the impact this camp was having for the kingdom was because of these redemptive relationships centered on the love of Christ. It did not matter if it was tie dye Tuesday or field trip Friday. What mattered to each of my campers was our “girl time” every week getting to ask silly and serious questions. The emphasis on relationship and the importance of the Bible led me to look more into this non-profit and apply to be a full-time staff member after I graduate. I look ahead to seeing how Eagle Lake Camps continues to have kingdom impact in the lives of these children, college counselors, and myself as I expect challenging growth and encouragement from those who will continue to build redemptive relationships with me.