In 1994, David and Colleen Burroughs started a new summer camp experience – Passport. Over the last twenty years, they have developed a unique camping experience involving mission projects and quality Bible study and worship. The program evolved from one location with eight weeks of camp to eleven locations with 24 weeks of camp. In the beginning, camp was designed for middle school and senior high students. Today, 3-4-5 graders can take part in PASSPORTkids camps at five different sites. The staff is composed of college and seminary students who have a passion for young people. Our church has been a member of Passport from the beginning. We give a gift to Passport, each year, through our mission portion of the church budget.

This year, we went to Wingate University in Wingate, North Carolina. Twenty-six youth and adults joined 250 other youth people for a great week of camp. As usual, outreach mission projects were available. These projects included working at the recycling center and repairing and painting low-income, elderly homes. An added feature allowed youth to select other projects. Members of our group chose music; learning and teaching group games; working with children through the local YWCA; and a program in self-image, health, and fitness. Meaningful worship experiences and music finished each day.

The true value of Passport is in group building. Twenty young people from our church bonded into one strong group. I am confident that they will form the nucleus for a great young group in the future. Bob [Gallagher] and Michael [Kellett] will begin the fall season with young people who are excited about music, worship and Bible study opportunities.