Sending Kids
to Camp
Come to the Water raises money to make summer camp possible for kids who would not be able to go otherwise. Campers are nominated by individuals, schools or organizations.
Cara and Cassie attended Come to the Water camps when they were in middle school; this video reflects their first camp experience. Both are now in high school. Their mother, Candice, is a single mom who was initially hesitant to have her kids leave her for a whole week, but has seen the positive impact that the camps have had on her girls. A younger brother, Alijah, has followed their footsteps to camp.
Cyrus and Titus moved to Knoxville before the pandemic with their family - all the way from Arizona. They come from a large family with 10 other siblings. Being home schooled and moving across the country can make finding new friendships difficult. Thankfully, the brothers were able to experience Come to the Water during the Covid year at a small camp which was able to operate through the pandemic. They continue to be appreciative of the opportunity camp gave them to make new friendships and experience a unique location!
Associations making referrals to CTTW
How our program works
Individuals, schools, and partner organizations nominate students from 20+ middle schools across east Tennessee - kids who because of life circumstance would otherwise never have the opportunity to experience a week of camp. Once nominated, an endorsement is sought from the student's school counselor. Each fall, the CTTW camper selection team chooses the appropriate camp for the next summer based on the projected number of campers.
Through the generosity of our donors, we make it possible for kids to experience a life-changing week at camp.
Christian camps selected by Come to the Water must be certified by, and in good standing with the American Camp Association – with a track record of hospitality to all, irrespective of faith tradition or religious practice. As the number of campers grows, additional camps may be considered.
Enthusiastic endorsements by past CTTW campers recommend these preferred camps:
Change a life.
5 camperships @ $600 each = $3,000
2 camperships @ $600 each = $1,200
1 campership @ $600 each = $600
1/2 campership @ $600 each = $300