My time at New Horizon’s Camp Week was a short but very impactful part of my life. I first heard of camp week years ago when one of my friends attended but I was not really sure what to expect other than a typical missions trip. I tend to be more of an introvert, so I was a little worried about meeting a bunch of new people, but very soon I discovered that the community at NHM is very warm and welcoming. Within just a few short days I felt as if I had been old friends with both the campers as well as those in voluntary service.
The first day and a half of camp week, Saturday and Sunday, mostly involved getting to know people and hanging out. The work started on Monday and the campers split several ways. I was able to help with some maintenance at Oasis Park the first day and then the rest of the week involved work at the thrift stores. The jobs included the following: sorting donated items, sorting clothes, cleaning items, moving furniture, and helping customers in the front of the store.
A very enjoyable aspect of helping at NHM was the opportunity to work alongside individuals who share the same goal in mind: to work for the glory and honor of God. I was impressed with the work ethic of the young people at NHM. Folks were honest when asked how they felt about their jobs, but they never whined or complained about things that did not go their way. Everyone seemed to be making the best of their time in service.
We were also given time to go sightseeing in the surrounding areas and that was an incredible experience as well. The biggest enjoyment of camp week for me was the friendships that I was able to make with those in service. I have never been to a place where I felt more welcomed and accepted than I did when I was at NHM. There was no expectation to be exceptionally skilled at sports, incredibly funny, or come from a “cool” family. Everyone was there to serve God and grow deeper in Him.
I would encourage anyone who is thinking of going to New Horizons Camp Week to step out in faith, get out of your comfort zone, and be ready to be impacted by those who are seeking God and doing His work at New Horizons.
