Q: What denomination does Illuminate belong to?
Illuminate is a non-denominational organization. Our Board of Directors is made up of a mix of denominations. We are each a little bit different, but we have two things in common: Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, and a desire to work with and minister to students.
Q: What is a usual day at camp like?
In the morning, the students will eat breakfast at camp and then have a session for announcements and some activities/music to get them up and ready for the day. They will then be taken to their job site where they will spend most of the day doing their mission project. They will then come back to camp, wash up and eat dinner. Afterwards they will have worship, small group time, youth group time, and then hopefully go to sleep!
Q: What types of mission work do you do during camp?
There is a wide range. It changes each year based on the needs in the community and what opportunities we can find for the students to serve. Some staples that we have had every year are building wheel chair ramps, painting projects, Backyard Bible Clubs, holding a food drive and distributing the food to people who need it, ministering at rest homes, and sewing clothes to send to children in Haiti.
Q: How do you try to help students grow closer to God while they are at camp?
Many ways. During the day they will have several different types of Bible studies (a devotion at lunch time on the work site, small groups after worship, and Youth Group time after that). Each of the Bible studies revolve around that day’s biblical theme. They will also have excellent worship services each night, which will include music and preaching. Not to mention, many students will grow closer to God while serving him at their mission projects.
Q: What is the cost for camp?
We felt lead very early on to make this camp as affordable as possible for small churches and groups that did not have big budgets. Therefore the cost per student is $75.
Q: What is included in the price for camp?
Included in the price for camp is lodging, three meals a day, any materials needed for the different mission projects, and a t-shirt.
Q: Do you have scholarships?
Yes. We have a limited number available for those who need them. The Board of Directors handles this directly. If you are interested in this, please contact any of the directors.
Q: My child does not belong to a youth group but would like to come. Is that allowed?
Absolutely. The parents will just have to fill out the necessary forms.
Q: What do I need to bring to camp (packing list)?
Each teen needs to bring the following: single air mattress or sleeping bag, blanket, pillow, work clothes, clothes for service (modest casual/everyday is fine), Bible, note pad, pen, any medications (these will be turned in), sunscreen (for those working outdoors), toiletries, towels and washcloths.
Q: If I have an idea for a mission project, could I submit it?
Yes. You may contact any of our directors and submit it. However, we cannot promise the project will be selected; we have to look at logistics, costs, and safety. That said, we are always looking for new projects.
Q: If I wanted, could I make a donation to the camp?
Yes. It is only by God providing and people investing into the camp that we have been able to keep the price per student so low and continue to operate. If you would like to make a donation, you may contact anyone on the Board of Directors. Any donations will go towards the camp’s cost and mission projects. Our directors and camp staff are not paid with money from Illuminate.
If you still have questions, you can send an email at illuminatecamp.com.