From Camper to Staffer

Originally Posted at BGAV.org. Article by Sarah Robertson.

Let me start off by saying that the reason I wanted to work for Impact Mission Camps was because last year I attended Impact as a college student, and I wanted so desperately for the younger kids in my youth group to enjoy their experience as I had during my first years. I thought, What better way to make sure people are enjoying their experience than by being on staff? The second reason I wanted to be on staff was because last summer I worked a full-time job, and I found myself spending my free time doing nothing but watching TV and sleeping.

I wanted a summer job that would contribute to my personal and spiritual growth, and Impact was perfect for that.

Being a camper for the past 7 years and then moving to staff definitely opened my eyes to all the thought, planning, and work that goes into making Impact possible. During the interview and application process, I was too nervous to ask any questions; so when I showed up for work in May, I had no idea what to expect, but I had put all trust in the Lord. From planning the worship services to setting up equipment, early mornings filling up coolers to late nightly meetings, and connecting with campers to connecting with coworkers, it was really cool for me to see Impact from another side. This summer I was able to satisfy my heart for service by helping to create a positive experience for campers. The things that made me feel accomplished in my work this summer were hearing campers say “Yes, I want to come back next year!” or “When I get older, I want to be on staff!” I feel as though I accomplished what the Lord asked me to do this summer, and I am thankful for the opportunity to work for Impact.

Sarah Robertson is a student at James Madison University. Her home church is Westwood Baptist in Springfield, VA.