Remember when you explored the great outdoors? You felt refreshed, healed and hopeful. That was the case for seven teen boys from the Fish Hoek Dream Center (FHDC) who participated in our first-ever Man Camp.

ER’s Ron Townsend, Nick Carnill, Wayne Ferreria and Kosea (a Biblical student at George Whitfield College and a church youth leader) took the boys on this trip.They visited Pat Busch Mountain Reserve, a serene farm escape nestled in a deep valley of the Montague Mountains three hours drive from Fish Hoek.

Why Do Man Camp?

Our desire was to engage the boys beyond their routines. Many lack a strong male role model in their homes. We knew fun “manly” things would provide them with fresh experiences. We spoke into their lives, cried, laughed and played together. We worshiped and had devotions after every meal. And boy did we eat!

Every day, the boys opened up more, sang louder, drew closer to the men, and shared their personal challenges. The boys were especially impacted when the leaders shared the struggles all men face.

Man Camp Builds Leaders

In addition to hiking, biking, soccer, swimming, canoeing, building fires and shooting slingshots (photos), the boys were encouraged to become leaders. The theme was “Honoring God as a Man” based on 1 Sam. 2:30. We focused on how to be a Godly man and lead well in life.

The boys got out of their comfort zones and focused on the truth in God’s Word. We saw each young man draw closer to Christ. Some who have been indifferent to Jesus opened to His love through the activities, talks and relationships.

One young man, Thabo (privacy name), has carried anger toward his dad for several years after he abandoned their family. Thabo found freedom from his anger and we see a noticeable difference in him.

Toby (privacy name), who has moved to a high school far away from the FHDC, shared how he misses his friends at the DC and plans to join their youth group. It was a big step for him to want to continue these relationships.

CLick here to learn more about ER’s work with youth in our Dream Centers and iBIKE programs.