Give the Gift of Camp: Support the Camp Ondessonk Scholarship Fund
For generations, Camp Ondessonk has been a place where children and teens grow in confidence, deepen their faith, form lifelong friendships, and discover the transformative power of nature and community. But for many families, the cost of Summer Camp remains a barrier. The Camp Ondessonk Scholarship Fund was created to make it possible that no child is ever turned away due to financial hardship.
Each summer, hundreds of young people experience the joy, growth, and belonging that only Camp Ondessonk can offer. Support of the Scholarship Fund helps open the gates of Camp to those who need it most – giving them the opportunity to create memories, build character, and feel deeply connected to something greater than themselves.
One camper shared the impact Camp Ondessonk has had on their life, made possible in part by the scholarship she received:
“I love Camp Ondessonk because it has given me a family filled with love and connection. The friendships made here over my seven years of being at Camp have been by far the best relationships I’ve ever had with anyone. Camp alone gives me the opportunity to become a better leader, grow stronger within my faith, and get in touch with nature, but this would not happen without the people. Every camper, counselor, and staff member I’ve met has made sure to make me feel so at home. Nothing but kindness spreads throughout the serene part of the Shawnee, making it such a magical place. My heart grows 10 sizes bigger every time I come back to Camp Ondessonk. This will be my last time returning as a camper, and I intend to make the most out of the time given.”
“When I first came to Camp, I was shy and reserved, unaware that my voice and opinions truly mattered to anyone. After years of coming back, I recognize that my voice does matter, and so many people are here to listen to me. With this, I’ve also learned to show others that they too matter here. As I’ve journeyed throughout my summers, everything about me has changed. I find myself picking up trash when I see it and praying to God more. I feel my heart heal with the love that strings everyone here together, and for that I am so incredibly grateful. I love Camp Ondessonk because it has become a home filled with my favorite memories, created with my favorite people.”
Stories like these are at the heart of what makes Camp Ondessonk so special. And they are only possible because of the kindness and generosity of donors who believe in the mission of Camp. A gift to the Scholarship Fund doesn’t just help a child attend a week in the woods, it helps shape the next generation of compassionate leaders, faithful stewards, and lifelong friends.
Help us keep the spirit of Camp alive for every child – regardless of financial circumstances. Give to the Camp Ondessonk Scholarship Fund today by visiting ondessonk.com/giving or calling 618-695-2489 x114 to be a part of something truly meaningful.
