Last weekend, we gathered for our annual fundraising dinner—The Power of Camp—and what a night it was! From heartfelt stories to powerful vision casting, we were reminded again that God is at work through Camp Sonshine in incredible ways.
Stories That Inspire
The evening began with a warm welcome, delicious dinner, and a chance to hear directly from our summer staff and campers. Our emcees, Elsie and Jonathan, shared how Camp Sonshine shaped their journeys from campers to leaders, and they read “This Is Why” cards—snapshots of why our counselors serve each summer. Each card testified to the countless lives being transformed by the love of Christ at camp.
Celebrating God’s Work
Our Executive Director shared how Camp Sonshine has grown from just 15 campers in a backyard to more than 4,100 camp experiences this past summer! Beyond the numbers, he reminded us of camp’s greater purpose: to UNLOCK & UNLEASH Kingdom Builders. The dream ahead is bold—100,000 camp experiences each year through base camps, resourced partner camps, and international programs.
Global Impact: Camp Sonshine – Zambia
We also celebrated what God is doing around the world. Emmanuel and Julius, leaders from Camp Sonshine – Zambia, shared powerful stories of how camp transformed their lives by getting to experience being group counselors in Nebraska as well as how it’s changing the lives of children and teachers in Kitwe. They testified to the hope and joy that camp brings to kids facing poverty and hardship—and how they’re ready to carry this vision forward in their own community.
Looking Back, Dreaming Forward
Guests enjoyed a video telling the origin story of Camp Sonshine, a reminder of how one family’s obedience sparked a movement. Pastor Bryan Clark then challenged us to see ourselves as part of this ongoing story—investing in the next generation through the life-changing ministry of camp.
A Call to Action
We closed the night with gratitude for our business sponsors and a clear invitation to join the mission. Our current giving focus is finishing the gym project, with a goal to raise the remaining $225,000 by the end of 2025. Guests were also invited to consider supporting Camp Sonshine – Zambia staff and to join the Blueshirt Team—monthly supporters who make ongoing ministry possible. Learn more here!
Thank you to everyone who attended, gave, and celebrated with us. Together, we are Camp Sonshine—and together, we are building God’s Kingdom through the power of camp.