Waterslides, Yeti Hunts, and the Power of Independence
May 21, 2025 |
When Lisa Kern dropped her 11-year-old son Josiah off at Camp Barnabas for the first time, she expected nerves. What she didn’t expect was peace.
It was Josiah’s first time away from home overnight, and the first time without his parents by his side. But as Lisa and her husband walked through camp, taking in the waterpark, the joyful energy, and the incredible staff and volunteers—they were blown away.
“We were amazed to see everything that was there and the experiences they were going to get,” Lisa said. “We just felt so good about it.”
Josiah had the time of his life. He raced down water slides, hunted for the elusive camp Yeti, and stole the spotlight during karaoke—microphone in hand and joy on his face. But the most meaningful part? What Camp Barnabas gave Josiah in the long run:
“Every opportunity Josiah gets to be more independent helps him grow overall,” Lisa shared. “He had Grady, his Missionary, and the cabin to support him, but being away from home gave him space to try new things on his own.”
Lisa and her husband dream of a future where Josiah can have the same opportunities as his sister. They want him to thrive—and Camp Barnabas helped him take a powerful step forward.
“Josiah has made me a better person. He’s opened doors I never would’ve dreamed of—just through advocating for him and others. He’s such a blessing. I wouldn’t change a thing about him.” — Lisa, Josiah’s Mom
For Lisa and her family, Camp Barnabas is more than just a camp—it’s a place where Josiah and other kids can experience something truly special.
“It’s a great place and experience for Josiah and others who wouldn’t have the opportunity to go to a camp that wasn’t designed for kids with disabilities. For them to have that experience—to have a week away from home and just have fun—is amazing. We love that there’s a place like Camp Barnabas around.”
This summer, Josiah can’t wait to return to Camp Barnabas. And neither can Grady—the Missionary who stood by his side every step of the way. They’ve already requested to be paired together again.
Because of supporters like you, kids like Josiah get to experience joy, friendship, and life-changing independence.
Help Campers like Josiah. Give to our Camper Scholarship Fund here.