A Lifelong Journey with a Salvation Army Camp

Jacob Humble has been involved with The Salvation Army for most of his life. He is currently the Challenge Course coordinator for Camp Sunrise in Gibsons, B.C. His connection to this camp goes back to when he was a toddler.

“My dad came to this camp when he was a kid. He grew to love the place and worked here for a bit. Then he started bringing me here when I was a child,” Jacob shares.

Lifelong Commitment

His parents, who volunteered at camp, would often bring Jacob and from a very young age. His constant presence led to one of his first childhood milestones at Camp Sunrise.

“They would bring me as a baby and I actually took my first steps here at camp,” Jacob says.

From the age of seven to 16, Jacob was a camper. He later participated in a leadership training program, which eventually led him to secure the position of Challenge Course coordinator. This is his third summer in this role, and he loves being a positive influence in children’s lives.

“The main objective is for them to have fun and do something that they wouldn’t normally get to do.”

“The main objective is for them to have fun and do something that they wouldn’t normally get to do. It’s a chance for them to do new things that don’t involve a computer or the internet,” Jacob adds.

Leading Campers

The Challenge Course includes physical activities such as rock climbing, high ropes, and zip-lining. These help campers conquer their fears and promote teamwork skills. Jacob says that when he was a camper, they shaped his current interests.

“I’d say one of the takeaways is growing a sense of adventure and learning how to do things with my hands. All that stuff was just so thrilling to me,” Jacob said. “I love that sense of adventure, which is something that I love to provide for these children.”

Additionally, Jacob also attended music camp, which sparked his passion for playing the guitar. Thanks to this skill, he leads worship at his local church and teaches other children how to play as well.

Preparing for the Future

Currently, Jacob is a student at the University of Victoria. He hopes to become a high school teacher once he finishes his studies. He believes his experience as a coordinator at Camp Sunrise is helping him build valuable skills that he can put to work in the future.

“It helps with leadership skills; it helps me to learn how to manage a group of people and to guide them through an activity.”

“It helps with leadership skills; it helps me to learn how to manage a group of people and to guide them through an activity. I’ve learned different tricks to get a group’s attention, so it’s been a great opportunity.”

Jacob’s lifelong involvement with The Salvation Army has shaped him into the leader and example he is today for the children he helps. He credits his dad with instilling this passion in him.

“I think my dad is proud. I would say it was secretly his intention. He wanted me to get as obsessed with this place as he did. I think he definitely succeeded.”

By Juan Romero