VICTOR D. ASBURY, JR.
WMC Committee on Prison Ministry

Camp New Day, a camp for the children of incarcerated parents, was held this year July 19-24 at Camp Albright in Reed City.  Camp New Day has its own Board of Directors, which reports to the West MI Conference Committee on Prison Ministry chaired by Victor Asbury. It is jointly operated by both the Detroit and West Michigan conferences.

The heart of the story is the children that Camp New Day serves.  These are disadvantaged children, suffering separation from one or both parents because the parent is in prison.

There are two groups of campers.  The younger group is children ages nine to 14. For the past two years there has also been a group 14-18 year-olds. Campers may apply for scholarships and every request for support is granted. The net result is that almost no family pays for camp.

Camp staff report that it is typical for a new camper to be reluctant when he or she arrives at Camp Albright on Sunday.  The children don’t know what camp is about. Their perception may be that camp means prison. Many urban youth have little familiarity with the outdoors, the woods, or being out of the city. The unknown is scary.

However, when Friday comes after a week of fun and being immersed in the Love of Christ they don’t want to leave.

Camp New Day is an important ministry of the Michigan Area.  It is a ministry that makes an observable difference in the lives of children who need it the most.

For more information email Victor Asbury.

Last Updated on October 20, 2023