Shout out to Candice Carlisle and the T.R.A.C. Tribe in Tuscaloosa, Alabama

No matter how many times I serve or visit one of our Teen Reach camps across the country, seeing the smiles or hearing the stories of impact never gets old. I can’t help but wonder at the hours we will spend around a campfire in Heaven reliving these moments we were privileged to experience on earth. 

At T.R.A.C. Tuscaloosa, Alabama, two young men showed up at camp not having had showers for weeks. When they were asked if they wanted to enjoy camp activities first and then shower, they couldn’t wait to get under that hot spray with their own soap and shampoo in the toiletry bag given to them. 

Another young man at camp wouldn’t eat because he’s gotten in trouble with the law for stealing food to provide for his siblings. This camper couldn’t believe he would get three meals a day plus snacks and freshly baked chocolate chip cookies from the camp grandparents. 

Squeals of joy rang out from the water where another camper cast his fishing line from the jon boat, catching his sixth fish of the day. He beamed with joy, proudly showing off his prize for a picture before releasing the fish back into the lake. 

There are more stories . . . more moments . . . each so impactful.  

Candice summed it up best with her recent post on social media: 

Just 3 days . . . 

In just 3 days, lives are impacted . . . 

Traumas are faced . . . 

Hearts are softened . . . 

Skills are learned . . . 

God moves . . . 

Hope is built . . . 

The Bible becomes accessible . . . 

Relationships become positive . . . 

Safe touch and safe talk is demonstrated . . . 

Love is felt . . . 

None of this is possible without the Tribe that surrounds Teen Reach Adventure Camp Tuscaloosa. 

If you were a leader, an on-campus volunteer, a come-and-go staff, a contributor, a donor, a financial supporter, a prayer partner, a support person, or a friend . . . your willingness to be the hands and feet of God just changed lives . . . There are not enough words or sentiments to express my gratitude. I love each and every one of you.