Tuesday, July 20, 2010

Camp Luther; "Faith, Fun, and Friends"

Camp Luther
“Faith, Fun, and Friends”

by Shelly Burke, Editor

“Faith, Fun, and Friends” is the theme of Camp Luther this year, and more than 400 campers will experience faith, fun, and friends as they take part in various camps this summer.

Camp Luther is located 5 miles north of Highway 30 between Columbus and Schuyler.
Camp Luther's site is about an hour and a half drive from Omaha, Lincoln, and Grand Island, and about an hour from Norfolk, York, and Seward.

Hank Rausch, Executive Director of Camp Luther, says, “Camp Luther is a small, personal camp that emphasizes relationships between the campers and other campers, campers and staff members, and most importantly, campers and their faith.” During the day campers may spend Time Alone With God (TAWG), and each day includes Bible study and campfire devotions. (Camp Luther is a Service Organization of the Lutheran Church, Missouri Synod, but its programs are open to all).

According to Rausch, 50-75% of summer staff members are former campers who have come back to be counselors, because of the positive experiences they had at Camp Luther and the relationships they built during those years.

During the summer campers are offered a wide variety of camps from which to choose; as well as traditional camps for grades 1-10, guests may attend Parent/Child Camp, Grandparent/Grandchild Camp, Family Camp, and Adult Summer Activities. Specialty camps cater to those interested in sports, science, survival skills, and volunteer opportunities. Rausch was quick to point out that although there is a charge for attending camp, no child will ever be turned away due to lack of funds.

Campers spend their time outdoors on bike trails, swimming, taking part in hot dog roasts, and participating in other outdoor activities. Many camps include a night camping outside (although all the rain this summer has made that difficult during some weeks!).

A Special Needs Camp is offered for developmentally challenged individuals age 13-adult. During the Special Needs Camp, each camper is paired with a buddy to help them make the most of their experience.

Camp Luther isn’t just for camping; events take place throughout the year. Activities scheduled for this fall include a Men’s Ministry Retreat, Outdoor Education for Small Schools, a Jr. High Retreat, and Women’s Scrapbooking Retreat. Buildings are available for rental (for group meetings or wedding receptions, for example), and camping facilities are also available.

Volunteer opportunities are available for adults who would like to help out with meals or assisting with maintenance during a camp. Junior Servants may volunteer to help wherever needed. Volunteers can help with projects during the year, or donate money or specific items.

For more information about camps, other activities, or volunteering or making a donation, see the website (www.campluther.org) or call (402) 352-5655.