National Make a Difference Day

"Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can." -John Wesley


Millions of Americans have rallied and united this week to help change the world and the lives of others in their communities. Today, the fourth Saturday of October, the nation and Camp Magruder celebrate the 21st annual Make a Difference Day sponsored by USA Weekend and the Hands On Network.


Guests of Camp Magruder have participated in several service projects over the years. They have maintained trails, worked in local soup kitchens, facilitated Vacation Bible School in local communities, chopped and cleared storm debris, built a community garden, built a compost center, re-built and maintained our fleet of boats, and donated their skills in carpentry and electrical work to various projects. Each summer 200-250 people volunteer their time as counselors, deans, resource staff, and theologians to our ministry here. Week after week campers join staff efforts to complete service projects on site. I can't even begin to imagine the number of people who have volunteered here over the years to make Camp Magruder the place it is today. We graciously thank all of you who help us fulfill our ministry.


We constantly witness the impacts that Camp Magruder has on the lives of those who pass through here and we see the way people are changed and moved to action. Not only do they act here, but they speak up for justice, equality, and opportunity in their own communities.


We found out this week that the Eugene First United Methodist Church has taken on a big fundraising effort to support our ministry here at Camp Magruder. When they contemplated the many projects that they might financially support, the youth director spoke up and helped turn the conversation into what can we do to make the most impact on the campers. Their decision was to raise the $35,000 needed to build a safe new boat dock for the guests of Camp Magruder. Fundraising is set to begin soon in their community. Financial gifts are welcome to help this congregation meet its goal of a new boat dock and can be sent directly to Camp Magruder. One person came to camp and was changed. In turn she helped her community see what they could do for someone else. It just takes one person with an open heart to make a difference.


"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, its the only thing that ever has." -Margaret Mead

What will you do to change the lives of those in your community on National Make a Difference Day?

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