Camp Climbers

“ Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.”

—JAMES 1:17

In 1924, The Salvation Army received 116 acres of campground property in Sharon, Mass. The site, originally called a Fresh Air Camp, is now preparing to celebrate its 100th year as Camp Wonderland. Each year, “The Happy Summer Place” welcomes school children, many from underprivileged and inner-city areas, to experience a summer of music, activities—like climbing, swimming, hiking, arts and crafts, and archery—and a newunderstanding of Christ’s love, all amid His beautiful creation.

“From its earliest days, The Salvation Army has recognized that youth enrichment and empowerment is important,” says Captain Nate Hinzman, divisional youth secretary.

“Wonderland’s legacy is the generations of families that have been impacted by its ministry,” says Jen Forster, director at Camp Wonderland. “When you have someone that has come to camp, and then their children and grandchildren are coming to that camp too, it’s something that can’t be underestimated.”