CAP's two summer camp programs, Camp Andrew Jackson and Camp Shawnee, combine fun and biblical-based education to provide a rewarding week of respite to over 1,000 children in Appalachia each year.  The camps seek to serve those who otherwise could not afford the opportunity to attend a summer camp, and many children look forward to it as their only vacation during the year. Trained and experienced staff serve as positive role models to campers and provide a "hands-on", educational curriculum, which is one of the most important aspects of camp.  Some of the lessons include: nutrition, history, geography, environmental education, etiquette, devotions and nature programs.  Among camp highlights are the skits and plays performed by campers detailing what they learned during the week.  

 

A variety of traditional camp activities are also offered by both of CAP's camps including: hiking, canoeing, arts and crafts, swimming, bible study, camping, fishing, campfire sing-a-longs, sports and paddle boating.  These activities are fun for children while providing staff opportunities to teach new skills such as leadership, safety, team-building, self-esteem and respect for others.

 

In his 10th year as Camp Director, Owen Wright, a father of three, is humbled by the awesome priviledge of playing a small part in molding and shaping the lives of youngsters.  "Running a children's camp for 8 weeks is hard work, but seeing their smiles makes it worth every second," he said.  "These kids are our future, and they are that important."

 

His sentiments are echoed by DeAnna Mullins, a Floyd County native and camper turned counselor who is now in her second year of working at camp.  "I never forgot this camp from when I was a child," she said.  "When I became an adult, I decided to give back for all of the good camp gave me."