How a Salvation Army Camp Helped Shape One Camper’s Future

For Emilia, (pictured on the far right) attending Salvation Army summer camps opened the door to new opportunities, personal growth, friendships and motivation for a future career path.

After spending a few years at day camps, Emilia looked for a new experience and signed up for the Army’s sports camp at Jackson’s Point, Ont., in 2023.

“The leaders were great and they had awesome activities.”

“I wanted to go to an overnight program because I had never been to one before,” Emilia says.

Although she was excited about this new quest, she was also a bit anxious. However, those nerves melted quickly.

“I was a bit nervous at first, but everything ended up being really nice at Adventure Camp. The leaders were great and they had awesome activities,” she adds.

Following her first visit, Emilia looked forward to camp each summer. Not only did she enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities such as canoeing, bouldering and swimming, but she also made connections will be lifelong friendships.

“I met one of my best friends there. We are in touch to this day and we have even worked together,” Emilia shares.

Her time at Jackson’s Point Adventure Camp gave her a sense of independence.

“It’s a different feeling when you’re away from home for a week and that gives you a chance to connect with other people more,” she explains. “The friendships that I made there are strong.”

Inspired by her experiences, Emilia applied for a leadership development opportunity. This provided her with hands-on learning in different roles and assisting leaders.

Eventually, her commitment set her on a path to new opportunities.  Last year, she worked as a cabin leader at The Salvation Army’s Newport Adventure Camp in Huntsville, Ont.

“It was a really nice summer to work there. I had some amazing campers and I think it was one of the best summers yet,” Emilia says.

In her leadership role, Emilia supervised participants and guided them through activities and games.

“I think that it would be rewarding and interesting to teach children in the future.”

“I just tried to be the cabin leader I would have wanted if I were a camper.”

In the next few weeks, Emilia will graduate from high school. She is working at camp again as a lifeguard before heading off to university to study mathematical and physical sciences. Her long-term goal is to become a teacher, a decision influenced by her camp experiences.

“I really enjoyed my time as a cabin leader and I think that it would be rewarding and interesting to teach children in the future,” she shares.

For anyone interested in joining a Salvation Army summer camp but who may feel a bit nervous about it, Emilia has something to say.

“It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. There you will find such a nice community.”

By Juan Romero