"This is the very best summer program I’ve ever been to,” said one enthusiastic child who attended the first Camp Safari at the Palm Desert Oasis church last June and July.
“Thank you for providing a safe and happy place where all [the staff] were kind, caring, and genuine,” said one parent.
For six weeks, Monday through Friday, between 40 and 60 children participated in fun activities embedded with spiritual lessons.
“More than one-third came from homes with no church affiliation. Another third came from families that belong to other denominations,” according to Paul Savino, associate pastor and creator of Camp Safari. The only advertising was a letter sent to families who had children enrolled in the church’s school and child development center. Campers ranged in age from six to 12.
Once a week, the campers took a trip to places such as the zoo, museums, or a water park. Otherwise, a staff of nine young people engaged the children in activities at the church, such as drama, crafts, learning sign language, cooking, a “manners” class, and puppets.
Savino had three major objectives for the camp. The first was to provide a secure Christian environment where families could feel comfortable sending their children—at a modest price of $88 for the first week, and $66 for any week thereafter. (Other day-camps in town charged $125 per week or more).
“We made it clear to parents that this was a ministry, not a money-making venture,” Savino added. Yet, of the budget of approximately $20,000, the church only chipped in $2,500.
“It is comforting to know that such a high quality camp is available for such a nominal fee,” said one parent. “The cost was affordable, especially when everything around us is increasing in cost. We are very thankful and hope to be back next summer!”
Second, the camp sought to draw families into the church itself. On the final Sabbath of the camp, the children presented the Sabbath program to an overflow audience, many of them visitors.
Finally, the camp provided employment for a staff of nine young people who earned scholarships at their Adventist schools. It also developed their leadership skills and challenged them spiritually. One pleased parent said, “Your camp counselors witness to God ’s character.”
