A parent’s story

From the moment we heard about Crane Lake Discovery Camp we knew that our son had to be a part of it. We first heard about Crane Lake when Ron and Cindy gave a presentation about it, explaining their vision for the camp and their desire to see boys reach their full potential. I was overwhelmed by the genuine care and love that they expressed when talking about the boys they wanted to impact and what they wanted that impact to be. I couldn’t help but be overwhelmed; without even knowing him they believed in and loved my son even when it seemed that everyone else had given up on him.

Over the years of our son’s involvement in the camp, their love for and belief in him was unwavering; even when faced with many challenges they never gave up on him. We kept expecting the phone call that we always seemed to get, “we have to send him home, this just is not working out” but it never came; in fact, when the going got tough they wanted him to stay longer! They restored our belief that someone really does care and offered us hope as well as much needed respite.

All of the staff at Crane Lake Discovery Camp saw beyond the surface of our son’s behaviour and helped him to see and understand his inherent worth. We were so impressed with their insight, the goals that they helped our son to develop and their consistent follow through in trying to help him to achieve his goals. One of the most powerful elements of his time at camp was the relationships that he formed, especially with the chiefs. Our son was treated with respect and was valued as the unique person that he is and we are so grateful for their investment in his life.

The tremendous joy that our son experienced because of the awesome wilderness adventures that Crane Lake offers was fantastic; you couldn’t have found a more enthusiastic fisherman! At the same time, he learned valuable skills in teamwork and relating to others because, “everything they do they do together!”

We cannot say enough positive things about Crane Lake Discovery Camp and the impact that it has had, not only on our son, but on our entire family and we are forever grateful for those that serve in this ministry and for what they have poured into each of our lives.