We’re Evolving, Learning, and Growing!

Diocesan Sleep Away Camp was held from Sunday, August 9, through Wednesday, August 12, at the Lake Chautauqua Lutheran Center. Twenty-one staff members were there to welcome, entertain, support, and care for our 40 campers this year, representing a 25% increase in attendance compared to the 2025 camp.

Originally, Sleep Away Camp was designed for campers ages 8-12, while separate Junior High and Senior High camps served older youth. Over time, all three camps began struggling to meet minimum enrollment numbers. As a result, it was decided to expand Sleep Away Camp to include all children and youth from those exiting second grade through graduating seniors.

The transition has been gradual, but Sleep Away Camp is evolving into a program that campers are excited to attend. We began with two distinct tracks and have now grown to three. Campers are divided into the Littles (Grades 2-5), Middles (Grades 6-8), and Bigs (Grades 9-12). Each track has its own Assistant Director and Chaplain, along with age-appropriate programming tailored to the needs and interests of the group. While these changes have come with some growing pains, the results have been rewarding for everyone involved.

The 2026 Sleep Away Camp was filled with learning, fun, love, community, and perhaps a little too much foam! Campers arrived on Sunday afternoon with a wide range of emotions. Some were excited, some were anxious, and some were disappointed they weren’t assigned to the cabin they had hoped for. Throughout their time at camp, campers participated in activities with their grade-specific groups, including Chaplain time and other track-based programming, while also joining together as one camp community for meals and many evening activities.

By Wednesday afternoon, it was inspiring to see the strong sense of community that had formed among the campers. The friendships that developed and the connections that were strengthened were the fruits of countless hours of planning, hard work, and a shared commitment to ensuring that everyone felt welcomed, valued, and included.

Wendy Schumacher, Missioner for Youth and Children