Like many camps, the first day of a new group begins by getting to know everyone. The group stood in a circle and everyone had to tell three facts about their life. The rest of the group then had to vote on which one of the three facts was false.
The day begins with a devotional in the clubhouse. Aaron Wilson, the founder of Str8Up, speaks about character. (Photos by Brad Thompson)
Like many camps, the first day of a new group begins by getting to know everyone. The group stood in a circle and everyone had to tell three facts about their life. The rest of the group then had to vote on which one of the three facts was false.
Walking a tightrope is difficult, especially if there is little to hold onto. Each teammate needs to lean on the other teammates. The team has to make it all away around a tight rope course without any member touching the ground. The course gets harder as the players proceed, because the ropes become less helpful. Leading the way is Dane Brooks.
Walking a tightrope is difficult, especially if there is little to hold onto. Each teammate needs to lean on the other teammates. The team has to make it all away around a tight rope course without any member touching the ground. The course gets harder as the players proceed, because the ropes become less helpful. Leading the way is Dane Brooks.
Jasmine Carson and Tre’Von Hicks face off in a game that is a cross between capture the flag and flag football. The goal was to capture the flag and bring it back to your side, without someone stripping you of your flags.
In this game, the task was to swing on a rope off of a platform and land in two hula hoops on the ground. Sounds easy enough, until you reach about 10 people. Then you have to get creative, with some team members climbing on the shoulders of others, and yet others helping new arrivals land without touching outside the hoops.
ZPC provides a catered lunch that is much appreciated. The lunch also provides an opportunity for fellowship. Carolyn Moore of ZPC, right, and Chris Sputh, left, provided the meal.
The rope “spiderweb” has 12 gaps. 12 people play the game, with an objective to get everyone from one side to the other, never reusing a single gap. Alan Davenport passes Cobe Simmons through the web while Nykayla Fuqua and others look on.
The day ends with a dip in the lake, as well as using various water sport equipment. Jasmine Carson and Cobe Simmons paddle a canoe.
By Brad Thompson
Outreach ministries can take many forms, and sometimes it’s as simple as playing games. Zionsville Presbyterian Church recently entered into a strategic partnership with Str8Up Ministries.Str8Up has a serious mission – mentoring teens to reach their potential by emphasizing character, responsibility and excellence. The ministry’s method is mostly fun, and involves playing games at summer camp. Located on 64th St. on the north side of Indianapolis, the camp sits in a natural environment that includes woods, a lake and considerable grassy areas for athletics. The camp also has an indoor basketball court, as well as a place for horses.
While fun, the games are selected on the basis of their ability to grow character. They emphasize teamwork and problem-solving, as well as an opportunity to burn off extra energy. ZPC volunteers help organize the games and serve food. Sometimes the volunteers serve as referees, while other times they dive right into the game itself.The kids come from all over the north side of Indianapolis. Str8up aims to help kids who have had limited opportunities.
