Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/the-pudding/camp-as-a-sacred-playground

Creating Safe Spaces to Explore Faith & Identity

In this episode of The Pudding, hosts Dr. Mandi Baker and Travis Allison speak with Jake Sorenson, founder and director of Sacred Playgrounds, to explore the impacts of Christian summer camps. Jake, a seasoned expert with over 20 years of experience, explains how Sacred Playgrounds uses data to tell compelling stories and improve camp and youth ministries. The conversation delves into the five fundamental characteristics of effective Christian faith-based camps: being unplugged from home; participatory; relational; a safe space; and faith-centred. For camps that are not faith-based, what is that alternative fifth pillar of effectiveness? Jake discusses the importance of creating environments where campers feel safe to explore big questions about faith and identity. Jake, also, emphasizes the need for continuous improvement in camp practices. 

Episode Guide

• 00:41 Meet the Hosts and Jake’s Sacred Playgrounds
• 02:52 The Concept of Ministry in Camps
• 06:42 Jake's Personal Journey and Research Focus
• 09:39 Key Characteristics of Christian Summer Camps
• 16:16 Fostering Intentional Camp Experiences & Reimagining Camp Traditions
• 26:16 Creating Safe Spaces in Faith-Based Camps
• 30:50 The Power and Vulnerability of Camp Leadership
• 38:45 Metrics of Success in Camping
• 45:19 Recommended Researchers to Follow & Episode Wrap-up

Your Hosts

• Dr. Mandi Baker, Researcher - Summer Camp, Outdoor Recreation, Sociology and Hospitality/Tourism - [email protected]
• Travis Allison, Summer Camp Consultant - Go Camp Pro - [email protected]
• Dr. Jake Sorenson, Founder, Sacred Playgrounds -  [email protected]

Thanks to our sponsors!

The American Camp Association - Illinois

The American Camp Association of Illinois is made up of nearly 289,000 members, volunteers, campers, families, and professionals who believe in the power of camp. We work to disrupt the effects of poverty by providing fundamental services for children and families, and learning opportunities for camp professionals. Learn more about ACA Illinois by visiting acail.org.

Camptivities

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