GSA’s Campfire Program

by Steve Paine, Volunteer @ MBC Loudoun

Last week I had the pleasure of serving with seven other volunteers at the Good Shepherd Alliances’ Campfire Program. The Campfire Program is held at a women and children’s shelter in Lucketts, VA and gives volunteers an opportunity to provide dinner for the families and to spend time playing games with the kids and having meaningful conversation with their parents.
We met with 2 women and 4 young boys residing at the shelter. I was pleasantly surprised at how open the women were about sharing with us the ups and downs of their lives. It really made me appreciate the work that the Good Shepherd Alliance puts forth to give these families a sense of stability in a time of much uncertainty. The women will definitely be in my prayers as they begin to get back on their feet and continue to shoulder the heavy responsibility of raising families as single parents on very limited incomes.
The kids were terrific – tons of energy! They really enjoyed playing games and spending time with some new faces. One of the kids in particular really moved me. I think he hugged, held hands or asked to be picked up by every volunteer in attendance. The amount of love inside of him was incredible and I sincerely hope that never changes. We need more kids in this world like him.
Serving as a volunteer at the Campfire Program is such a rewarding experience for anyone who would like to make a Christ-centered impact in the lives of women and children who could really use the love and encouragement. I would highly recommend parents who have children to come out and serve this incredible organization. It will teach your family the true meaning of compassion and love.