Camp Encounter

Camp Encounter is a program run by Head of the Lakes Youth for Christ based in Duluth, MN. It takes place every summer at Blue Water Bible Camp in Grand Rapids, MN. In recent months Canadian chapters of Youth for Christ have expressed an interest in establishing a similar program in Canada.

History

Camp Encounter was established in the early 2000's. It began as a youth centre and day camp program for a few youth but eventually became a week-long residential program servicing dozens of Minnesota youth every year. In 2007 Camp Encounter achieved a number of milestones, including being named as one of the best new camping programs in the American mid-west by the American Camp Association [Title: Camps and spirituality. Nancy Ferguson, Camping Magazine, March 1, 2007, Thomson Gale, Volume: 80 Issue: 2] . Under a new administration the camp program began a revamped fundraising program and was able to increase its funds significantly.

About the program

Camp Encounter's program includes traditional camp activities such as nature hikes, campfires, skits, and swimming, as well as more modern activities such as concerts, skateboarding, surfing, and wakeboarding.

Religious Component

Although Camp Encounter is not an overtly religious camp, and it welcomes people of diverse faiths, it is run by Youth for Christ, and as such it is based on their mission statement to, "raise up lifelong followers of Jesus who lead by their Godliness in lifestyle, devotion to the word of God and prayer, passion for sharing the love of Christ and commitment to social involvement" [http://www.yfc.net/Brix?pageID=2941]

External Links

[http://www.campencounter.cjb.net Website]