Part 1 of the history of UGM covered our founding in 1951 through the retirement of Executive Director Harry Altmeyer in 1987. We pick up as his son Phil Altmeyer takes the reins and ushers in a period of growth to meet the growing needs of the community.

By Christa Inouye, Youth Outreach

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“Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.” - Romans 12:2, NLT

 While transformation in Christ happens throughout a lifetime, UGM Camp provides an avenue for young people to experience significant change through the new experiences, deep relationships and thoughtful reflection time.

This summer, dozens of children each week are enjoying a chance to get out of their urban neighborhoods and enjoy brand-new outdoor experiences at UGM Camp.  But trust and friendships are the true treasure to be found at UGM Camp, as you’ll see in these vignettes from camp facilitators.

By Christa Inouye, Youth Outreach

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How much can an 8-year-old understand about the kingdom of God? Sometimes, people become discouraged in children’s ministry, wondering if anything is actually making a difference. Are conversations about God only for adults?

Jesus seems to answer that question pretty clearly: “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these” (Matthew 19:14). Often, God surprises us with how directly He speaks to the hearts of children.

Siblings Caden and Teryn, 11 and 9, had never been to summer camp before they went to UGM Camp last summer – free of charge.

“We wanted to send them, but we didn’t have the resources,” says their mom, Lori. “It’s just wonderful. They get a chance to do this even if the family’s not necessarily able to.”

Thanks to our UGM Camp sponsors and volunteers, each summer hundreds of children from low-income local neighborhoods get an unforgettable week of enjoying nature, building friendships, and hearing about Jesus’ love for them.

In our last blog post from UGM Camp 2017, we’re reminded of one of the key ingredients for many of the life transformations we see at UGM: time. Healing deep emotional wounds, changing entrenched patterns of thinking, victory of truth over constantly repeated lies: In almost every case, these transformative processes take time.  Zarine’s changed heart is no less of a miracle because God is changing it slowly.  He is faithful to finish what he starts!

“God began doing a good work in you, and I am sure he will continue it until it is finished when Jesus Christ comes again.” – Philippians 1:6, NCV

By Shatara Flowers, Student Impact Center resident intern

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A year ago I would have never imagined I’d be in such a place, experiencing life in such unexpected and extraordinary ways with a team of people all running after the same thing. These same people today feel more like a family.

By Danielle DePace, Youth Outreach Administrative Assistant

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10-year-old Leo could be seen wandering by himself away from the rest of the campers, off in his own world. He seemed to be more interested in discovering new things around camp or investigating the bees on the lavender flowers outside of the chapel than he was interacting with his fellow campers or playing games. But instead of gaining a gaggle of new friends, Leo gained a big brother. 

By Annie Crain, Youth Outreach volunteer

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“I must be the luckiest boy in the whole world!”

These were some of the sweetest words I’ve ever heard. The truth is, maybe he was one of the luckiest boys in the whole world.

By Danielle DePace, Youth Outreach Administrative Assistant

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Looking at Hailey, you would think that she’s like any other 13-year-old, outgoing camp kid, but her story isn’t what you would expect. She grew up on and off the streets of Spokane with her family. When her family did have a place to stay, she would stay secluded in her room. She was shy and struggled with ADHD and anxiety, making her feel very alone in the world.

 Then, in 2015, a pastor came to her school and spoke about the Union Gospel Mission summer camp and this is what would change her life forever.