Plant. Cultivate. Harvest. That’s the goal at the Gateway to the Arctic Camp, an agricultural camp near Talkeetna, Alaska. However, it’s not just about planting, cultivating, and harvesting vegetables. It’s about planting the seeds of character, volunteerism, and leadership in every participant. It’s about cultivating those attributes through mentorship and care. And it’s about “harvesting” that character—giving people the opportunity to practically apply it to help those in need. The end result? Amazing stories, lifelong friendships, and most importantly: needs met.
Operated by the Great Land Christian Church, the Gateway to the Arctic Camp had an incredible summer 2016 season. The camp hosts a variety of programming, including dedicated camps for special needs youth and adults. All campers get their hands dirty and learn about what it takes to get food from the ground to the table, building new skills and character along the way. The summer of 2016 was our best summer yet. The camp hosted over 100 campers, and their efforts helped to grow 2,190 pounds of produce—which was donated to local food banks throughout the area, helping to alleviate food insecurity in Alaska. That’s a TON of food—literally!
Of course, great impact requires a great amount of support. And there was no shortage of amazing people helping to make this all possible. The summer saw over 8,500 hours of volunteerism and many thousands of dollars of financial support. HOPE worldwide’s HOPE Youth Corps and HOPE Singles Corps played a pivotal role in allowing us to succeed. Throughout the season, 42 HOPE Youth Corps and Singles Corps members tirelessly served at the camp. In addition, we have six amazing interns that each gave up their entire summer to serve. Add that to many more volunteers and contributors from the Great Land Christian Church in Anchorage and Fairbanks, and you’ve got a recipe for making a powerful impact.
Thank you to all of our supporters from the Great Land Christian Church, HOPE worldwide, our interns, and beyond! The Gateway to the Arctic Camp is not possible without you!
If you’re interested in learning more about the Gateway to the Arctic Camp’s 2017 programming, please visit:
Great Land Christian Church Summer Internship 2017
Alaska HOPE Youth Corps 2017