From April 26 to May 3, 82 volunteers from Maranatha Volunteers International repaired, restored and renovated Camp MiVoden in preparation for summer ministry.
Volunteers ages 8–87 wasted no time getting to work. On Sunday, when volunteers were only expected to check in, several people got right to work clearing debris off the dock after setting their bags down.
“We had planned for volunteers on Monday to clear the debris so one of our teams could repair the dock,” said Melody Wheeler, Maranatha project coordinator. “To our surprise, our volunteers were ambitious and got the job done a full day ahead of schedule!”
A wide variety of projects were completed during the week, including building a new set of cement block stairs between the two dormitories, repairs to the railroad tie garden, stocking and cleaning the camp store, constructing a shelter in the horse barn, repairing the dock and performing maintenance throughout the campus.
In addition to their time, several volunteers brought their tools. Professional construction equipment was provided by volunteers. A team of volunteers prepared meals throughout the week, giving the MiVoden kitchen staff a well-deserved break.
“We had a talented group, from every type of vocation you could imagine, with beautiful spirits and willing hearts,” said Wheeler. “It was a joy to have such a large group; everyone melded into their worksite and worked hard all week long with a strong sense of camaraderie.”
Of all the projects, the largest undertaking was repairing the dock and the water sports equipment shed, both of which had been damaged by a fallen tree. After clearing branches on Sunday, a dedicated dock team spent a large portion of the week making repairs and replacing damaged parts.
The dock repairs were of special importance due to a new activity being added to MiVoden’s waterfront this summer. Thanks to a generous donation from an anonymous donor, MiVoden now has a small fleet of kayaks for kayaking on the beautiful Hayden Lake.
The project was blessed with pleasant weather and cheerful workers. Each day began and ended with worship. Several worships were led by Maranatha volunteers, sharing how God worked in other Maranatha projects around the world, including in Cuba and Russia.
“To me it’s always inspirational, invigorating and exciting. One of those things you remember with warmth,” said Wheeler. “The work brings a sense of community; many people come regularly and look forward to it.”
For more than two decades, volunteers have supported MiVoden through more than 20 projects since 2000.
To watch Maranatha volunteers at work at MiVoden, see news.uccsda.org/maranatha426.
Maranatha volunteers process lumber onsite for construction and maintenance projects.
Maranatha volunteers install new safety railings.
Maranatha volunteers come with a plethora of construction skills, including welding.
