This summer has been a wonderful blessing for me, and the many families involved in our program. Collectively we have been able to share the gospel with 38 children over the course of this summer. The children have learned about Ruth, Paul, David, and Jesus and many others. They have also memorized several different Bible verses! I have included a couple of quotes below, to express how thankful families have been for Summer Explorers Camp.
“Thank you for providing this experience for my daughter, especially during this chaotic time in our world. Thank you for gifting her with other child interaction, fun, memories, a schedule, playground time, routine, God's love, and time away from us. Thank you for allowing me some time away from her and to be able to work without 'mom guilt' of dragging her with me or being gone from her all day while at a sitter.”
“Summer camp at first explorers is a yearly tradition for our daughter. She has made good friends she only sees at camp and looks forward to spending her summers with them. This year has truly been a blessing, not only providing us as working parents a safe place for our daughter to be, but also a chance for her to feel normalcy during this uncertain time.”
“My son enjoys everything about camp. His favorite thing was the interaction that he has with his peers, playing baseball, and playing on the playground. The most important thing is he told us tonight that he wants to be Baptized .️ This camp allowed me and my husband to maintain our employment, with no worries About trying to find childcare, not to mention the cost of a private sitter. This camp was essential to our family and our livelihood. So, a BIG SHOUT OUT TO THE STAFF! Thank you!!!!!”
“I have to say that this entire program has been a God send for my daughter. She was a very shy and timid child who did not do well with transition or any type of program but somehow you guys have worked your magic with her for the last year to year and a half and she has become a different child! She is more outgoing, funny, independent, and self-confident. The care and compassion that we have received for numerous years for both of our daughters has far exceeded my expectations and I am so glad that they got to learn about God while also learning how to be a happy, well developed children. This program has basically helped to raise both of my children and I will never forget what has been offered and taught to them with you!”
“After a season of quarantine this spring, the summer day camp at First Explorers has breathed new life into our family rhythms and my children's development. My daughter comes home quoting a new Bible verse each week; my son is thriving in an environment of structured play. We are so grateful for the extra effort that the staff took to keep germ transmission at a minimum. It's been an all-around "healthy" experience - physically, emotionally, and spiritually!”
As the Summer Explorers Director, I would like to express how grateful I am for First Baptist Church, the First Explorers Committee, Cheryl Beck for continuing to come instruct a weekly crafts, and the many others who have been praying for us. This summer was made possible because of each and every one of you! - Whitney Massingale