By Cavin Harper, CGN Executive Director

I have heard the stories and descriptions of the struggles the grade school age children of today’s deployed military are facing, but to actually see it for myself at our Military Kids GrandCamp this summer was enlightening and stirred my soul. I really grew to love these kids, and some very amazing grandparents. For most, this was one of the few times they have ever been able to spend extensive, quality time with their grandkids, and I believe the long term benefits of such time will be transformational. The Lord really used this week to begin the process of healing and to elevate an awareness of how great the need is among our military families.

There were lots of tears and lots of anguish, but the Spirit of God moved mightily in all of us during the week. Our staff was amazing, and the number of participants for this pilot endeavor were ideal for what we needed to do and learn. We will be much better prepared now for future programs and larger numbers having gone through what we did this week.

What sets CGN’s GrandCamp apart from any other camp programs that are specifically targeted for military families is the inclusion of grandparents. There are some really terrific camps provided at little or no cost by the military (Operation Purple) and by other military ministries (OCF and MYCM), but only CGN’s program targets grade school age children particularly with a natural, perpetual follow-up relationship that keeps the camp experiences and processes going long after camp is over. As one grandmother commented, YOU REALLY DID MAKE A DIFFERENCE! (See Grandparents Speak Out article).

We also gained some powerful champions and ambassadors for this ministry, and that was important too. Thanks to all of you who were praying, and those who generously and sacrificially gave to make this camp possible. I don't think I have ever experienced a more powerful and impactful GrandCamp than this one. Please keep praying for these kids. The emotional issues and anxieties they are facing are more than most adults should have to handle. They are being effected, not only emotionally, but physically as well. Keep them in your prayers.