A Summer That Lasts a Lifetime

The 2025 UGM Camp season is almost here, and we are excited to welcome children into an environment where they can find relationship with God and grow within a safe, loving community.

 You have the opportunity to plant a seed and give a child memories that will last a lifetime and relationships that will continue beyond camp.

Sixty years ago, I attended camp and can still remember the fun activities and the scripture I memorized. It had a profound influence on my life and helped shape who I am today. Camp is a lifelong experience that will impact the children who attend far beyond the years to come. I was fortunate to have had a wonderful childhood full of family activities, so I can’t imagine how the children who experience that kind of fun and love for the first time must feel. 

Making an Impact

Throughout the Inland Northwest, churches are investing in the lives of at-risk youth and families by partnering with Union Gospel Mission throughout the entire year. During summer break, up to 600 kids from Spokane’s low-income neighborhoods are invited by their local church to spend a week at UGM Camp. It’s a place where kids ages 8-11 can build quality friendships and experience God’s creation.

“We will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, his power, and the wonders he has done.” (Psalm 78:4)

When you sponsor a child at UGM Camp, you’re offering the opportunity for their lives to be forever changed.

“For me, the most special thing about UGM camp this week has been growing closer with my friends and leaders. I feel like people now really know me & I know them…we talked about the importance of teamwork, communicating, and not giving up in life.”

– Addy, UGM camper

Through trust-building exercises, team sports, and a group-oriented challenge course, children learn the importance and joy of teamwork. In the evenings, cabin leaders facilitate more intimate discussions about faith, family, and struggles the campers are facing.

We are designed for relationships, meant to walk alongside each other as we follow Jesus together. Campers are presented with opportunities to develop healthy friendships, be led by trustworthy role models, enjoy time together, and develop skills that will help them navigate future relationships.

We want every child to leave on their last day of Camp knowing that Jesus is the greatest friend they will ever have. He is the only friend who will never turn away, never change His mind, and never fail to love.

Sponsor a Child for $180

Each year, children rely on the generosity of community members like you to cover the full cost of Camp, ensuring that the experience and all necessary items will be provided at no cost to them. The gift amount for sponsoring a child this year is $180, which increased by $34 from last year due to cost increases for food, transportation, and utilities. But because of generous sponsors like you, we're still able to give a free full week of camp to every single camper. If you’re interested in sponsoring a UGM Camper, visit www.uniongospelmission.org/camp-sponsor. Sponsorships are $180, but gifts of all sizes make a difference.

“I’ve always been really connected to camp…no matter what I’m doing here, I feel safe…Camp has been like my home.”

– Bella, former camper and leader

Because we do not accept government funding, we are able to teach the good news of Jesus every day. The activities are fun, but the best part of camp is the lasting impact of caring, trustworthy adults and a relationship with Christ. Together, let’s pray over these young lives—for families and generations to be transformed by His great love.