Camp Tekoa Summer Plans

By: Phyllis Murray, Interim Executive Director

During this difficult time, the Camp Tekoa staff and Trustees continue to be committed to our mission of “Touching Hearts. Changing Lives. Sharing the Light of Christ.

As we have closely monitored the guidelines and regulations handed down by the State of North Carolina, American Camping Association, the Centers for Disease Control, and our local health departments, we have become more convinced that the summer programs we have historically run with much success would need to be altered significantly this summer. While the health and safety of our campers is always our initial concern, we also desire our programs to provide opportunities for spiritual growth, community building, and of course, fun. We recognize there are many factors beyond our control which could greatly impact the way our camps would need to operate to be in compliance, and believe it would be difficult to create the open and loving community environment we desire.

The Camp Tekoa Board of Trustees has made the difficult decision to suspend all of our scheduled Summer Camp sessions for Summer 2020

It was made evident in our recent parent survey that families are interested in alternative experiences AT our Tekoa sites. This decision allows us to pursue unique programming opportunities that are formational and fun while still aligning with the standards and recommendations we expect to be in place later this summer. Please watch for information on these new programs in the next week.

Camp Tekoa recently celebrated 70 years of ministry. The camp has been a vibrant part of the Western North Carolina faith community throughout this time. Because of your generosity over the years, and the good stewardship of camp leaders, the camp has been financially healthy for a long time. This year we have been able to continue to operate in spite of the cancellation of our spring schedule. However, with the loss of summer revenue, upwards of $1,250,000.00, we anticipate the impact to our ministries will be significant. We ask that you join us in prayer as we work through this difficult and unprecedented time.

In honor of a cherished Tekoa tradition we are announcing the “Raise Your Candles High” Emergency Fund. Donations to this fund will support the camps during the current crisis and help insure the future of the life-altering Christ-centered experiences that take place on our grounds. Thank you for considering how you might help at this important time.

To donate to our emergency fund, please visit camptekoa.org and click on the Giving tab. Choose Raise your Candles High Emergency Fund. Every amount matters during this important season.