Faith, fun cornerstones of Jumonville Camp and Retreat Center
When those in the area think of Jumonville, their first thought is often the giant Cross of Christ.
What some may not realize is that the 60-foot-tall cross stands above Jumonville Camp and Retreat Center.
Founded in 1941, the 280-acre Christian camp welcomes young people, families and community groups, hosting nearly 12,000 people yearly.
“Our summer camp is the biggest event, but we do retreats and other gatherings year-round,” said Heather Withrow, the president of Jumonville Camp and Retreat Center.
The facility also hosts a field trip experience for fifth-grade students in the area, helping them experience outdoor fun.
Withrow said the camp is known for its adventure program.
“We were pioneers in that area, creating ziplines and an indoor climbing center in the late 1980’s and early 1990’s,” she said.
Other activities in the program include a rappel station, a challenge course, caving and canoeing.
The goal is to inspire young people in the community to continue to grow and succeed.
“We hope their character has been built and reinforced, and they’re growing to be caring, kind and productive adults. We’re encouraging them on their faith journey, and we hope they get to know God better,” Withrow said.
Young people can also participate in Hope Camp, which is geared toward children who have an incarcerated parent, who are in foster care or who otherwise can’t afford it.
“In 84 years, we’ve never turned a kid away for financial reasons. We have such generous donors who pay for kids who couldn’t otherwise afford camp,” Withrow said.
The camp’s property has a rich history. It was the site where the French and Indian War began.
“George Washington literally slept in the front yard,” said Withrow. “Then it served as a school for orphans who lost their father and mother in the Civil War or (if) the mother was unable to care for them. Some of these buildings are over 200 years old.”
Anyone, she said, is invited to come to Jumonville and experience all it has to offer.
“You can walk up to the cross at any time. If you call ahead or come to the office during open hours, you can get a gate opener that will allow you to drive up to the cross,” Withrow said.
And for those looking for a spiritual connection, “Our chapel is always open for those who want to come and pray or rest,” Withrow said.
There are volunteer days in the spring and fall, and monetary donations can be made through www.jumonville.org/; however, Withrow said there are far more important ways to support them.
“We like to be supported with prayer. We want to know the stories of people who have experienced Jumonville as a child or a teen. We want to make a difference in our community,” Withrow said.