Ascend Camp | Summer 2026

Despite the brokenness of the world, the truth of the gospel offers us hope. Ascend is a summer program holding out that gospel hope to kids and teens who have experienced the divorce of their parents, have lost a loved one, or live with a family member who has a disability. Hosted at our Pelham, Powdersville, and Travelers Rest campuses, this camp is open to the community and welcomed nearly 125 kids this summer who are experiencing various forms of grief.

Hardship often feels isolating, but Ascend helps kids discover that they are not alone. They build relationships with peers who understand their experiences, practice healthy coping skills, enjoy games and activities, and they learn about a Savior who meets them in their hardship and reminds them that they are never alone. A new track was added this year for kids who have been adopted—opening the door to care for even more kids and families.

Lydia Austin shares this about her experience:

Our granddaughter really connected to the adults in her classroom. I knew she would deeply benefit from this program, but didn’t realize how much of a blessing it would be for parents and grandparents. We were able to learn from leaders and share suggestions with other caregivers.

We are encouraged to hear from parents that they felt cared for, better equipped to walk alongside their kids, and that their kids’ experiences carried over into meaningful conversations at home. These impacts are made possible by support from over 80 leaders and volunteers!

Sarah Gillenwater, one of our volunteers, connects her personal experience to her role:

I am so thankful for the opportunity to lead at Ascend. Although I lost my mom, I am thankful that God is using the hard parts of my story to love others.

Will you join us in thanking God for all the growth and healing we have seen through Ascend Camp this year? To learn more about support for divorce, grief, and more, visit our Care & Recovery page by clicking below.