Transforming Lives: How Angel Tree Camp Empowers Children of Incarcerated Parents

Summer camp is often a time of carefree fun and adventure for children, but for a special group of campers, it holds an even deeper significance. These are the children of incarcerated parents, who find solace, community, and a chance to connect with their faith through the Angel Tree program's camp experience.

Unlocking Brighter Futures for Vulnerable Youth

A Safe Haven for Healing and Growth

At the Oakridge Camp, the Angel Tree program provides a transformative week-long experience for these children, offering them a respite from the challenges they face at home. The camp's staff, led by Event Coordinator Jamie Khoury, understand the profound impact their efforts can have on these young lives. "When you have an organization come and say 'We want to help make it possible for kids who may not otherwise be able to attend come and experience the magic of camp,' it's a beautiful thing," Khoury reflects.The camp's counselors, such as Lead Male Counselor Mark Kosechquetah and Lead Female Counselor Sarah Kosechquetah, are specially trained to provide the campers with the support and connection they need. "During our training, we try to emphasize to the counselors that our number one goal for Angel Tree campers is connection," explains Mark Kosechquetah. "Connect with someone else, connect with God some way spiritually, and that the camper will be able to connect with who God is calling them to be."This focus on fostering meaningful connections is echoed by Sarah Kosechquetah, who emphasizes the importance of making the campers feel safe and loved. "I want them to know first of all that they're safe while they're here," she says, "and second that they're loved and we love them, but most importantly Jesus loves them."

Finding Belonging and Resilience

The impact of this nurturing environment is evident in the experiences of the campers themselves. Emery Wood, a three-year veteran of the Angel Tree camp, enthusiastically shares, "It's been the best. I have met so many new people. My siblings have started coming, it's the best."For other campers, like Hayden Hill, the camp provides a sense of belonging and understanding that they may not have found elsewhere. "I always felt that I was the only one," Hill expresses, "but once I came to Angel Tree for Oakridge, I realized that I'm not the only one who has troubles at home with parents and other family members."The camp's influence extends beyond the individual campers, as evidenced by the story of Taylor Adair, who convinced her sister to join her at the camp this year. "My sister's actually here because of me," Adair exclaims. "I wanted her to come out here and to let her know there's bigger and better things for you to do out here. Just to put the word of God out there to let her know there's more that you can do."

Fostering Spiritual Growth and Resilience

The Angel Tree camp experience is not just about providing a fun-filled week for these children; it's about nurturing their spiritual growth and resilience in the face of adversity. The camp's staff and counselors work tirelessly to create an environment where the campers can connect with their faith, find solace, and discover their own inner strength.Through activities, workshops, and mentorship, the Angel Tree camp aims to empower these children to overcome the challenges they face and envision a brighter future for themselves. By fostering a sense of community, belonging, and spiritual connection, the camp becomes a transformative experience that can have a lasting impact on the lives of these vulnerable youth.As the campers return home, they carry with them the memories, lessons, and newfound confidence they've gained during their time at the Angel Tree camp. This experience serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring them to navigate the complexities of their lives with resilience and a renewed sense of purpose.