Sue has been a camper for over 20 years. In this video she shares what Overcomers has meant to her.
J.O.Y. (Jesus Others and You)
I was first introduced to Christian Overcomers in the summer of 1993. Little did I know what a blessing and impact
this would have on my life to this day. The camp was held at Spruce Lake Retreat Center in Pennsylvania. I had the privilege of being the hands and feet for my dear camper Susie Ozhian. It was a week vacation for people with disabilities that normally didn't have a chance to experience these things. I learned so much about unconditional love and serving others. Needless to say I was hooked and help serve Overcomers in one way or another to this day. I also met my husband Sergio there. We were married in 1995 and God blessed us with a child in 2000. His name is Antonio. He also loved volunteering and help campers. Sergio each year had a camper Robert Knapp which he helped direct him through out the week. I worked out well because Sergio is a wheelchair user himself but still able to assist Robert. My family formed a strong bond with Robert especially my son Antonio. Antonio was often seen hand and hand helping Robert get from cafeteria to chapel and the pool. I am thankful that we instilled an attitude of sensitivity to other who are different then us. God doesn't need much to work with but open heart and empty hands for Him to fill. True Joy comes when we put Jesus first, others second and ourselves last. I encourage anyone who can give of their time, finances, talents to this ministry of Christian Overcomer. You will be extremely blessed.
Mickey Scognamiglio
Hi My name is Faith Gross. I live in Hewitt NJ (I call it the booneys of NJ). For a couple camps now, I've been a volunteer for Christian Overcomers. A few years ago, my friend Rachael told me about this camp for adults with disabilities. At first, I was a little hesitant because I've never been in a caretaker role in this way before, but after the first day, I just fell in love with everyone there. My favorite part of camp is probably the community aspect of it. Everyone, from the volunteers to campers, just love on each other in such a Godly way. It's a week-long of family fun! My favorite memory would have to be plastic wrapping Joe W's entire room and car during the October camp (everyone needs a little pranking once in a while). What's touched my heart the most out of all the camps I've been to, happened in August. During the bonfire's open mic night, one of the campers stood up and said in front of everyone "thanks for treating me like a person for the first time". That brought a flood of emotions to me. I am so greatful for Christian Overcomers and their ability to allow people to feel the way God created them-as His children and nothing less.
To whom it may concern
Christian Overcomers is the best thing that ever happened to my daughter Bonnie.The happiness it brings to her is what she looks forward to every year. The care the staff gives to all of the campers is filled with love. Friendships are made,and you cannot measure the feelings of belonging and confidence each camper receives.It is something everyone should enjoy in their lives. As a parent I appreciate that my Bonnie can be among people who really care about her. If Bonnie could not go to Christian Overcomers every year it would be heartbreaking to her and many other campers.
Thank you for your concern,
Joyce Paulding
Bonnies proud Mom