Pecometh Story:
A Gift That Changes Lives
A Surprising Start
Chuck Shivery grew up attending Asbury United Methodist Church in Millington, Maryland. Camp Pecometh, at the time, wasn’t something he was familiar with.
“Actually,” Chuck shared, “it was interesting. I didn’t know that much about Pecometh. It wasn’t on my radar, and it was expensive. My parents didn’t have a lot of excess money.”
That changed when, at 12 or 13 years old, someone from Chuck’s church anonymously sponsored him to attend camp.
“I remember it being a wonderful experience, not just the friendships with other campers, but also the programs. As a kid, I didn’t have the ability to experience any of what camp provided, and someone sending me to camp was pretty amazing. That’s what put Pecometh on the map for me.”
Chuck would return a few years later as an assistant staff member, and in 1964, he served on the waterfront staff, leading activities like swimming, canoeing, and sailing. “All of those experiences expanded my view of the camp,” he reflected.
A Legacy of Caring
As Chuck grew older, he met his wife, Christine, a nurse with a heart for helping others. “Christine was the person who really loved people,” Chuck shared. Together, they built a life that allowed them to do meaningful work and grow their financial resources.
They dreamed of one day starting a foundation, one that could support organizations doing important work in the world. After Christine’s passing just over a year ago, Chuck has continued to live out their shared values of generosity and care for others.
Giving Back to the Place That Gave So Much
Recently, their foundation made a generous gift to the Pecometh for Generations Capital Campaign.
“The whole experience that Pecometh provides is helpful and important to children today,” Chuck said. “I hope our generosity will help children go to the country and have an experience that is very different from where they are growing up.”
And more than that, Chuck hopes their gift inspires others to give as well.
A Ripple Effect of Generosity
“We are grateful for this generosity,” said Augie, Pecometh’s Executive Director. “My story is similar to Chuck’s. I came to camp the first time because someone in my congregation made it possible.”
Augie continued, “Chuck shared with us that he had been away from camp for many years. My goal is that everyone who comes to camp, whether for the first time or the hundredth time, feels the welcome of Christ in all aspects of camp. The projects in this capital campaign are designed to help make that welcome a physical reality.”
Building for the Future
Chuck and Christine’s story is a reminder of how one act of generosity can change a life—and how that life can, in turn, change others.
We are deeply thankful for Chuck’s gift and for all who are supporting the Pecometh for Generations Capital Campaign. With every donation, large or small, we’re building a future where more children, youth, and families can experience the transformational power of camp.