Ministry of Epworth Forest

Transforming Lives

In 2010, Impact 2818 Outdoor Ministries impacted the lives of 3,206 students through summer programs. 495 students, ministry-wide, made a first time decision to follow Jesus Christ! In addition to these lives having eternal hope in Christ,

High School Camps

701 high school students made a committment to living inside out hope (God's love) in their communities
213 high school students answered the call to enter into full-time Christian ministry

Middle School Camps

303 middle school students made a recommittment to follow Christ

Elementary Camps

539 elementary students better understand Christ's love for them

(Click here to view the full 2010 Summary Report.)

Epworth's Programs

That Thing

That Thing high school camp was started back in 2009 as an expansion of the Institute program, which dates back to 1916. It was discovered that the majority of students attending Institute already had a relationship with Jesus Christ, and were looking for answers as to how they could live it. That Thing focuses on an outward, mission focus with students as they grow and live out their relationship with Christ. Click here for 2011 details.

Camp REYOAD

Started back in 1963, Camp REYOAD is an amazing week of camp for mentally and physically disabled individuals, ages 16 yrs and older. Caring staff and volunteers help provide a safe and exciting week full of boating, fishing, field trips, sports, crafts and more. All this while learning about Jesus in a loving and supportive environment. Click here for 2011 details.

Royal Family Kids Camp

Royal Family Kids Camp is a partnership camp for students, grades K-5, in situations of abuse and neglect. The camp is about ensuring at least one positive memory during their childhood, and is supported by countless volunteers and financial support.Click here for 2011 details.

Program Growth – That Thing

Since the launching of That Thing high school camp in 2009, program attendance has increased each year.

837 students in 2009
933 students amongst 25 lodges in 2010 (11.5% growth)
Capacity for 1,135 students amongst 31 lodges currently sold for 2011 (24% growth)

Week 1 and Week 2 are currently sold out for 2011, and only 2 lodges remain for Week 3
Duecker Lodge is sold out for all three weeks of That Thing
Duecker Lodge created space for an additional 28 students and 4 adults for each week of That Thing (9.7% of the expected 24% growth)

Why the attraction of churches and youth to That Thing? The program provides innovative approaches to giving students unique encounters with Christ that churches struggle to create on their own, and students are unlikely to find elsewhere. The program is styled like a conference, so each group can tailor the experience to their own needs.