Returning to the Bikeathon
I was both born and raised on the island of Kaua’i. Now I am a student at Hawaiian Mission Academy. I recently had the amazing opportunity to join and accompany a few of the students, Jake, John, and our wonderful math/science teacher, Miss Jao, to participate in the bikeathon at Kahili Adventist School, my old middle school.
The bikeathon that they hold happens traditionally almost every year, usually during the second month of school. The kids would always first set a goal of how far they wanted to bike, and then they’d fundraise off of it. Being given the opportunity to help out and bike again with the kids really meant a lot to me. Biking again brought back so many terrific memories of when I used to do it.
We had many opportunities to help out, not only by watching the kids and making sure that they were safe but also by bonding and just interacting with each and every child. I personally really enjoyed seeing all of the kids being brought together and having a goal that they were all so passionate about.
The kids were so willing. I noticed that they were kind, not just to their own friends but also to other people that they would bike past, whether it was just a simple smile or even a hi. This really made other people’s day, and all of the helpers heard a lot of feedback from it. Although the community on the island of Kaua’i is not so big, people on that island are ever so giving.
______________________
By Katelyn Ventar
Camp Wai‘anae Staff Attend Camp Ministry Convention
Three Camp Wai‘anae staff members traveled to California to attend the Association of Adventist Camp Professionals (AACP) convention from Dec. 4-7, 2024.
The breakout sessions were particularly inspiring, offering practical insights into leadership, management, programming, and spiritual growth.
Melanie Ramirez, Girls Director
Attending the Association of Adventist Camp Professionals convention at Pine Springs Ranch was a wonderful experience. Meeting camp leaders from across North America, Canada, and even Ukraine highlighted the global impact of Adventist camping ministries. The breakout sessions were particularly inspiring, offering practical insights into leadership, management, programming, and spiritual growth. The Friday night communion service was very special as we participated together as a team, reminding us of Christ’s sacrifice and the unity we share in His mission. This convention was a powerful reminder that through Christ, our work in camp ministry connects hearts, changes lives, and builds a lasting legacy of faith.
Casey Williams, Assistant Director
Part of our Camp Wai‘anae administrative team recently attended the 2024 AACP Conference at Pine Springs Ranch, where we participated in sessions focused on enhancing our camp program and enjoyed collaborating with others in the camp community throughout the North American Division.
I personally enjoyed learning ways to streamline administrative processes, including tools to improve camper registration and cabin assignments. Breakout sessions on conflict management provided practical strategies for equipping staff and fostering better team dynamics.
On a broader level, it was meaningful to reflect on our mission and vision and how they will continue to guide our efforts in ministering to our camp community.
Randy Maddox, Camp Manager
We had a great time at this year’s AACP, held at beautiful Pine Springs Ranch. I had the privilege of representing the Pacific Union camps at the AACP board meeting. It was a valuable opportunity to spend time with other camp professionals and to share insights on ways to improve camp operations to further our mission. Collaborating and providing a voice for the other Pacific Union Camps was something I loved getting to do. It is also a blessing to learn more about camp ministry each year and to see how it has a significant impact on the lives of young people, not just in Hawaii but in all parts of North America and the world. It was also evident that without the support and partnership of volunteers and donors, our mission to share Jesus with our young people would not be possible. At Camp Wai’anae, we are especially thankful and blessed by all our ministry partners!
