She Came for Camp, She Found a Family
Bugs. Being outdoors. Sleeping away from home.
At 15 years old, Renny wasn’t convinced summer camp was going to be her thing. But somewhere between the beautiful sunsets, the songs, and the friendships, something changed. What began as an experience she wasn’t sure she’d enjoy became a place she couldn’t wait to return to. And part of that transformation came from someone who probably didn’t realize just how much of a difference she was making.
Keren was one of Renny’s counselors. “She was so kind, always was laughing and playing games with us and was so good at connecting with us.” Keren showed Renny what it meant to care for others and the kind of counselor she might someday become.
For Renny, Pecometh is more than summer camp. It’s a family where people show love, encourage one another, and come together as a community. “My favorite memories are from music time, when everyone gathers to sing, laugh, and enjoy being together.”
Those experiences have shaped her life beyond camp. Now a junior in high school, Renny recently started at a new school, she credits Pecometh with giving her the confidence to meet new people, start conversations, and build friendships. Camp has also strengthened her faith, deepened her appreciation for nature, and taught her the importance of respect and open communication.
Wanting to help younger children, Renny joined Pecometh’s Counselor-in-Training (CIT) program. She learned that leadership requires patience, responsibility, and putting others first. One day, she helped a young camper untangle her hair, a simple act of kindness that also built confidence.
When Renny learned she’d been hired as a counselor for next summer, she told everyone: friends, family, even teachers! She hopes to be the counselor that campers will remember as someone silly and fun, but also someone they could turn to for help. Most importantly, Renny wants to share what Pecometh gave her; a community that feels like a family. A few years ago, she arrived unsure whether camp was for her. Next summer, she’ll welcome children who may feel the same way. Just as Keren helped Renny discover confidence, friendship, and belonging, Renny will now do the same for someone else.
That’s how Pecometh changes lives. One camper, one counselor, and one caring moment at a time.