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A Year of Reconnection

Executive Director Mike Davis

The past 22 months have felt like one continuous block of time for many of us. As we reflect upon 2021, it is hard not to look back to 2020: Pyoca's only summer in 69 years without campers. However, now 2020 feels like a blur as we were able to jump back into hosting in-person programming in June for the first time in 14 months.
While running summer camp had its challenges after over a year without campers and guests on-site, God truly blessed our ministry this 
summer, ensuring that we could safely operate in-person programming. 
Summer camp was vital for our children and youth this year, and our campers did not miss a beat. This summer was filled with joy, laughter, and fellowship. Time and time again we were greeted at Sunday check-in by eager campers who exclaimed, "I'm so excited to be back!" While certainly not the easiest, 2021 was possibly one of the most fulfilling summers in Pyoca's history. With the support of our staff, volunteers, board of directors, church partners, and donors like you, Pyoca was sustained through incredibly challenging circumstances.

We have carried on into our fall season, continuing what we've learned to do best: adapt. This fall, we were able to host our annual quilt and craft retreat, Fall Youth Retreat, and the ordination service of Rev. Sammie Smith, camper and staff alumna. We were also excited to once again host church and non-profit groups.
This year has reminded us of the true gift of walking alongside campers and guests throughout their life of faith. We've had the joy of welcoming our youngest Explore campers to Pyoca for the very first time this summer, processing faith and mental health with youth this fall, celebrating the call to the ministry of a former camper turned colleague, and providing opportunities for fellowship and respite for adults. 
As we enter into 2022, we look back on seventy years of ministry and reflect upon the thousands of seeds of faith that have been planted and nourished here at camp. 

Carrying the mission and many traditions of the past, we look forward to exploring Pyoca's bright future and invite you to continue walking alongside us in ministry as we expand upon the work begun here seventy years ago. We hope you will join us in celebrating with a gift of support as we close out 2021. 
Your end-of-year gift will help ensure that Pyoca's mission to be a place where all are welcome in God's love to explore, grow, rest, and play can be sustained for years to come.

Wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year.


Mike Davis
Executive Director

There are a number of ways to support our ministry, including: donations to our Scholarship and Annual Funds, volunteer opportunities, in-kind gifts through our Amazon Wish List, and more.

Donate

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