I feel lucky to have called First United Methodist Church of Salisbury my home for almost 17 years now. All the ministries of the church that I’ve been involved in over the years—Sunday school, youth group, choirs, mission trips, ushering, serving as an acolyte, and more—have contributed to my spiritual journey. As I look back, there is one ministry of FUMC that has made an especially big impact on my life—Camp Discovery.

Camp Discovery had its first year in 2002, founded on the vision of our pastor at that time, Thomas Griffis. That year, 15 campers got the opportunity to go to the Mount Shepherd Retreat Center in Asheboro. Swimming in the pool and lake, hiking, singing, and studying Bible stories are just a few things on the agenda each year for participants. Not so remarkable for a church camp, really.

Here is what distinguishes Camp D from a typical church camp: It is one-on-one (one camper with one mentor). We have a group of around 24 faithful volunteers who commit to this volunteer calling each year. These adults and teenagers devote their entire week to serving their camper as a spiritual advisor, mentor and friend.

Not only does Camp Discovery provide a full-time mentor for each camper, but it is absolutely FREE for campers. That’s right—no fees involved. Thanks to generous donations collected throughout the year, campers and mentors get to enjoy the overnight camp without packing a wallet.

Guidance counselors in local elementary schools help steer families with rising third and fourth grade students toward this ministry. The needs of each child vary greatly, from simply craving a fun week at camp to dealing with loss and tragedy. Students who may be considered “at-risk” are given the chance to get away and just be kids for a week. Over the years, more than 275 children have attended the camp.

Camp Discovery is founded on Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” I have served as a mentor for about seven years total, and I can say without shadow of a doubt that these campers can do anything they set their minds to. I am honored to be serving as camp director this year, and I cannot wait to see what this year has in store.

Camp Discovery 2015 will take place June 28-July 3.