Discipleship camping trips have a powerful impact, as illustrated in Caleb’s story below, shared by Trip Leader Connor Craft, staff associate, Telluride, Colorado:

“One story that captures the impact of the week is Caleb’s. He came on this trip having never put his faith in Jesus, even though most of his friends have by now. Like many of our students, he did not grow up in church and was still exploring what he believed. During a one-on-one conversation on the last day, Caleb decided to give his life to Christ. That night during the final club where campers shared about how they encountered Jesus that week, he stood up and publicly shared his decision. The entire group of guys erupted with excitement and celebration. It was one of the most joyful moments of the week and a powerful reminder of why we bring students on trips like this.

What made this week especially impactful was the example set by the interns. They were only a few years older than our students, but they were wholeheartedly pursuing Jesus and living out their faith in a way that felt real and attainable. They shared their stories vulnerably, spent meaningful time with students, and showed what it looks like to follow Christ in everyday life. They modeled an authentic and real faith that was so very attractive to our students! Our students connected deeply with the interns.

Most of the students we brought did not grow up in Christian homes or church environments. Many have met Jesus through Young Life over the past few years and are still learning what it means to follow him. This trip provided exactly the right combination of discipleship, service, community, and challenge. More than anything, our students are leaving with a new hunger to know Jesus, pursue him wholeheartedly, and make their faith their own. That is a huge win in my book.

This was a very special week with very special people. So much intentionality and prayer clearly went into preparing for us to be there. My wife and I were blown away and so incredibly thankful that Young Life offers something like this! Thank you, thank you, thank you! We will be back.”