Early bird registration ($30) is available through October 14. Then the cost rises to $40 through November 8. The at the door rate is $50 on Friday, November 9. The Saturday rate is $35. All prices include lunch on Saturday.
The conference offers workshops for ministry leaders, parents, and professionals. The conference planners would love for you to tell church leaders, educators, therapists, medical professionals, your friends, and family about this event.
Russ Gibson, who wrote this post, was a great sport when the comedian and ventriloquist picked him to be part of the act.
“I can’t believe you forgot her shoes!”
These were the words I heard when my wife realized I forgot our youngest daughter’s shoes while packing for camp. As 18 month-olds don’t always wear shoes, I simply whisked her away – shoeless – into the van upon our departure from home. Looking back, I can’t believe I forgot them either, and I don’t blame my wife at all for not believing I forget them!
In my defense–okay, at least in order to make myself feel better–let me give you some context. My wife and I were packing for 7 of us. Our children’s ages are 13, 10, 8, 4, and 18 months.
I thought I had everything, especially because I’m a checklist kind of guy. Especially since this year was our second year at Wonderfully Made Family Camp, I thought I was a pro at packing for this event. It turns out I’m actually not perfect at packing.
Even though I’m not a pro, I’m thankful that the staff and volunteers are pros at being the hands and feet of Christ. Our experience this year at camp was as stellar as the prior year, even better, in fact. Everyone involved seem to have covered every detail, from programming to accomodations to food.
Being in community with other families like us who experience life with special needs children is among the largest blessings that we have received. Knowing that you are not alone in the midst of your own “valleys” is a great comfort. Just hanging out with other dads and moms and not feeling awkward about your child’s intricacies is strengthening to me as a parent. This is a community of encouragement and love.
One of the most enjoyable moments at camp was date night. Us parents got to spend a few hours enjoying appetizers and dinner, as well as socializing with each other. The kids were wonderfully taken care of during that time. For our entertainment, there was a talented comedian who was able to get us laughing hysterically! This was such a great opportunity to let our guard down, and to momentarily forget our everyday tasks. It was a time to live in in the moment and enjoy the present.
Looking back, maybe it wasn’t so bad that I forgot my little one’s shoes. It was a reminder to me that despite my best efforts, I can’t plan for everything, fix it all, or be the best. God’s grace takes care of me despite my shortcomings, and I am reminded to rely on his love and power through it all. WMFC was a tangible experience of this grace, and for that, I am thankful.
~Russ Gibson, devoted husband, father of 5, and good sport
We are once again selling pies to help support Wonderfully Made Family Camp and their mission to provide a fun, safe camp for families of special needs for minimal cost. These pies are only available to order until December 15th so don’t delay!
Each pie is $15 and absolutely delicious! We have Pecan, Apple, Peach, Pumpkin, & Strawberry-Rhubarb to choose from. There are only 30 peach so those might sell out, but the rest will not sell out.
Pies can be picked up either the week before Thanksgiving or the week before Christmas. If you have any questions, please email Beth at bethc@valley-church.com.
This shot of parents goofing around in the photo booth set up for Saturday evening’s Adult Night Out says so much. To see these caregivers able to shed their duties for an evening of laughter and fellowship shows that WMFC is for the entire family, not only for the kids with special needs.
Wonderfully Made Family Camp 2018 was a 68 hour whirlwind that impacted families and volunteers alike. Mere words can’t communicate how the days spent together impacted 40 families comprised of 200 family members and the 100+ volunteers who served unselfishly. So instead of trying to tell you in my own words, I’m using words spoken and pictures taken by others who attended the third annual camp held at Hidden Acres Christian Center in central Iowa.
We had the privilege of going to Family Camp this year and it was such a blessing. Catching up with old friends, making new ones, and the time we all spent together was so wonderful! All the buddies, staff, parents, kids, and folks that put this on made this a memory our family will never forget! ~ from a parent
The Wonderfully Made Family Camp could not happen without all the wonderful donors who gave financially and in-kind. If you would like to send them a personal note, that would be awesome!
Casual, modest clothes: shirts, shorts, sweatshirts, jeans, and comfortable shoes. If the forecast includes rain, bring boots and an umbrella. You will receive a camp t-shirt to wear on Saturday.
Jacket or sweatshirt for evenings
Swimsuit and towel–Girls and women should bring one-piece suits or tankinis that cover the midsection completely. No two piece suits or bikinis are allowed. Hidden Acres has an indoor pool, so there will be swimming whatever the weather.
Towels, pillows, and bedding for each family member. Sleeping bags are a good option!
If your room has a queen bed, that bedding is provided (Inn)
Toiletry bag or caddy to carry to and from bathrooms (Welcome Center, Bunkhouse)
Hairdryer
Flashlight
Any medical equipment, wheelchairs/strollers, shower chairs, or special supplies needed to care for your family members. Hidden Acres does not have any of these items.
Cell phone (if you have one-limited reception)
Medications needed (Each family member will need to fill out a medication form for camp)
Hat, visor, and/or sunglasses
Bug spray and sunscreen
Spending money for snack shop or gift shop
What Not To Bring
Yoga pants or leggings
Short shorts
Shirts with inappropriate messages
Expensive electronic equipment (We are not responsible for any lost, stolen, or damaged items)
Perfume or highly-scented toiletry items since many of the kids are allergic to fragrances
Weapons
Alcohol or illegal drugs
WMFC Camp Policies
No smoking is allowed in any camp buildings or on the campgrounds
Lake is not available, except for the “Youth” Outing Saturday night
Please pack up and be out of your room on Sunday, by 9a.m. brunch
