Notes from the Heart: Kids Letters to God from Camp Pine Valley

Every summer, Camp Pine Valley and all our other partner camps become more than pine trees and campfires—they become home for kids who have never heard “I’m proud of you” from a dad. Here, amid zip-lines and Bible stories, broken hearts find repair.

For each of the letters below, there are countless others, scribbled in crayon, folded into pockets, and whispered in prayer.

The Importance of Camp for Fatherless Kids

For many kids, camp is healing and growth. Children without fathers face unique struggles. Studies indicate that structured camp programs boost positive emotions, self-esteem, and community readiness.

Dear God,

Thank you for bringing me to Pine Valley to learn more about you and the Bible. And thank you for all the girls in my cabin; they are all very nice (mostly). Also, for all the delicious food we get, as well as the people who prepared it. Thank you for all the friends I’ve made and the activities I get to do.

Yours truly,

Macy

A Place of Hope and Forgiveness

Dear God,

I hope that I have a better life. And hope you take me in your path to save me and forgive my sins. I also hope that I can be a Christian and go into your hands and talk me on the right path at all times.

Lacie

Lacie’s openness illustrates how important spiritual support is in their lives. Camp nurtures spaces for kids to explore their faith and seek guidance.

Finding a Second Home

Dear Lord,

Thank you so much for letting me be at Pine Valley this week. I am so grateful for it. You hopefully know that this place is my second home. I would also like to forgive people. I love you God.

Laurel

For kids who feel isolated in their day-to-day lives, camp creates a welcoming community where they can truly thrive.

The Journey to Kindness

Dear God,

Please help me to become humble in my words and actions to be a better, kinder person to others. I would like to understand your plans and future for my life. I love you and thank you, Father.

Alex Hutchins

Alex’s reflections remind us that camp is more than just fun; it is an opportunity for personal development and learning empathy in relationships.

The Impact of Supporters

These letters prove supporters matter. Your donations, volunteer hours, and prayers make camp possible. Kids explore faith, build friendships, and gain life skills.

Every dollar raised, every hour volunteered, and every prayer offered is fundamental to making Camp a reality for these children. Your support allows them to experience the joy of camp and the warmth of community while knowing they are loved.

Imagine the pure joy on Macy’s face during meals with friends, the glimmer of hope in Lacie’s heart as she embraces forgiveness, the sense of comfort for Laurel in her second home, and the determination radiating from Alex as he strives to be kinder. These moments are possible because of your unwavering support.

Inspiring Change Through Your Support

The letters from Camp Pine Valley offer deep insights into the hearts of children navigating life without a father figure. They serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of community, faith, and the critical support needed for these kids to flourish.

Thank you for being an integral part of this journey and for believing in the life-changing power of camp. Your support is truly changing lives, one heartfelt letter at a time.