This one letter incorporates ALL the great reasons why we do CAMP and CLUB.
Hello,
I am
Lizette M. I attended Bakersfield RFKC in 2007 and 2008. I was encouraged
to email you after reconnecting and speaking with my former camp directors
(Kim & Randy) at this years camp (2016), where I was able to
return as counselor. I just wanted to say how much RFKC changed my life. I am
20 years old, devoted Christian, just graduated (May 20th 2016) from my junior
college and will be transferring to CSU Monterey Bay to continue my education
to earn my Bachelors in Business Administration. My goal is to be able to
create/partner up with an organization that helps former foster youths. I want
to give them support to be able to go to college and to graduate.
Camp
was the first time I ever felt love and also the first time I let my guard down
to receive it. The message that I carry with me all the time is "Having a firm
foundation" from my first year at camp. I have moved to many foster homes,
and the message that I learned that year reminded me that no matter how
temporary my "home" would be, God himself IS
and WILL ALWAYS be my firm foundation.
I have
always asked God to bring me back to camp, I had no idea how to do it. Then
right before I turned 19 I was invited to a church service which was right
across the street where I remembered where RFKC picked me up at. It was then
that I knew I was in the right place and God put me there for a reason. He led
me back! Although I was able to get connected with RFKC, God told me that I was
not ready to go and to wait. So I did. I was so sad that I had to wait but I
knew why he put RFKC on pause for me. So, this year he told me I was ready!
It
again was a life changing experience. RFKC has a very big piece of my heart, as
a former camper and a counselor. Camp was all for the kids but it was so
impactful for me as well. My first year as a counselor was the best thing that
can ever happen to me. I was surrounded by kids that just wanted to be loved
and I was able to be that person to give it. A little girl called me
"mommy" and I fell apart inside. I saw a piece of me in her and I
just loved her so much. I am looking forward to many more camps to attend no
matter where I am at.
Thank
you so much for this camp. Without it, I would not be the person that I am
today. Wayne & Daine are true blessings to many people and children.
Although I do not know them personally, please let them know that they saved my
life.
Much
love,
Lizette M.
