Josh Miracle '11 and campers
This summer I found myself in the small town of Golden, Missouri for nearly two months. While in Golden, I worked for an organization called Kids Across America, a Christian-based sports camp geared toward inner city youth. The main goal of the camp was to use sports as a way to share the Gospel and reach out to teens.
Every eight days a fresh group of teenagers from all across the country would converge on the camp. Each session myself and one or two other counselors were responsible for an entire cabin of 8 to 12 sixteen and seventeen year olds. We were responsible for leading daily Bible studies and devotionals with the kids, and it was a really incredible experience watching how these activities had an impact in their lives. Most of these kids came from rough areas and single parent homes and some may even be involved in gangs. The camp gave us the opportunity to show them that someone out there cares for them and that there is a better lifestyle out there.
In addition to being a counselor, I was also placed as the head of football program at the camp. For nearly two hours a day I got the opportunity to coach football while teaching them the value of discipline, respect, and good work ethic. I even had the honor of coaching along with Ravens wide receiver Mark Clayton. We played against another camp almost every session and whereas our opponents had weeks to prepare and install plays we were limited to three practices because each of our sessions were only eight days long. Despite these odds, we went 4-0 against the other camp. In addition to football, we played a camper vs. counselor game weekly which the counselors came to dominate over time.
Looking back, I have to say that this was the best summer I have ever had. I feel that I have grown immensely spiritually and have made a great deal of lifelong friends along the way. If you are interested in learning more about the camp, I’d encourage them to visit their website or contact me.
Editor’s Note: Josh is a member of the Beta Theta Pi fraternity and the Wabash College football team. In 2008, Josh joined members of the Wabash College football team who went on a mission trip to Botswana during their spring break. Listen to a podcast about the trip, complete with photos, on the College website.
This post was submitted by Josh Miracle '11.
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