I just finished reading Out of Ashes, the book written by Keith Phillips, the founder of World Impact. The beginning chapters chronicle The Watts Riots of 1965 and the Los Angeles Riots of 1992 in which, combined, 87 people were killed, thousands injured, and tens of thousands of buildings were burned. As I was reading about the LA Riots, I was shocked that I had never heard of them before, even though they happened in my lifetime, only a couple hours away from where I was living at that time. World Impact was founded by Phillips after The Watts Riots, and was able to help their community when The LA Riots took place.

I am so thankful THE OAKS assigned us this pre-camp reading. Reading this book was eye-opening as I began to better understand not only the World Impact mission, vision and philosophy of ministry, but also the purpose of why it was started in the first place. As I understand better the needs this ministry is addressing, I also understand better God’s heart for the people we will be serving.

The more I read, the better I understand that these campers and I come from different worlds that are located in the same country, and often the same city. As I write this in the comfort of my grandparents suburban home in Bakersfield, check out this story of a camper that is a 15-minute drive from my current location:

“The moment I heard about six-year old Riley, I knew I wanted to take her to camp. She lives in an impoverished home in Oildale, a neighborhood full of criminals and addicts. Riley has special physical needs and fears her mother’s abusive boyfriend.

So last year, Riley attended her first summer camp. She loved the delicious meals, the fire- circle times, crafts and swimming. But mostly, she delighted in learning that God loves her. As the campers were leaving, Riley dug her fingers into her counselor and begged not to have to go home, explaining “I want to live here—all the good food and my own real bed!” Camp was the best experience of Riley’s life.

When Riley returned home, there was a shoot-out. Her mother’s boyfriend was killed and her mother arrested. Riley and her siblings are now in the county system, but they know that God will never forsake them. Now, you know why taking Riley to camp was so important to me. If anyone deserved a carefree vacation in a loving environment, Riley did.” – Dr Keith Phillips, World Impact Bulletin May 2011

When I read stories like Riley’s, I am overwhelmed at the opportunity that has been presented to me. I am so grateful to be a part of helping young people encounter the love of God in a tangible way this summer.

1. That God would continue to prepare my heart, and that I would be ready to learn (Psalm 25:4-5) with a teachable spirit when I start training this Wednesday.

2. For finances for the students coming to camp. Each camper earns/raises a small portion of their camp cost (I think $30). Pray these students have the motivation to work hard and not be discouraged as they obtain these funds (opportunities in their community are provided to them).

3. For continued personal health as I am training for two weeks and then will start our first week of camp.

Thank you for taking the time to read this. Seriously.

Much love from sunny SoCal,

Haley