This year, for a second time, about 40 underprivileged Banks County third- through six-graders will have the opportunity to experience summer camp, thanks to a $15,000 grant to Camp Koinonia from the Jackson EMC Foundation.

“Camp Koinonia is designed to serve a diverse group of children, regardless of their socioeconomic background,” says Camp Secretary Gale Whitlock. “Through camp life we provide these children with learning experiences that encourage them to make positive choices, build strong character, strengthen their leadership and team building skills, and help them form personal relationships. It’s such a good experience for these kids that we see previous campers returning to us as volunteer junior counselors and counselors so they can help other children.”

So while the kids will leave Camp Koinonia this summer with great stories and happy memories, they’ll also take with them something that will impact their lives.