Finding Purpose and Life

Birch Bay Ranch came into life my life unexpectedly and yet perfectly. When I was eight I attended a weekend children’s retreat. It was the first camp experience and the first time I had ever ridden a horse. For the next seven years of my life I remembered that special weekend as my only authentic camp experience; though I could never remember the exact name of the place. Then when I was fifteen years old my mom told me about a summer camp she used to work at with her friends and suggested I volunteer there for the summer. I have to admit, being a teenager I was skeptical of my mom’s definition of fun, but I went anyways.

That summer was one of the best I have ever had. As I walked into the main lodge for the first time I remember realizing that I had been here before, it was the camp I had attended so many years ago. I was immediately thrilled at my realization and ready to start my summer. During my first year of volunteering I was able to truly experience a summer camp with horses and zip lines, campfires and chapel. It was a dream; I was in awe of everything. But more than that, I was in awe of how amazing and supportive the people around me were, and how passionate they were for God. It was a thriving family of people, one that anyone could be a part of. That summer I grew in my faith immensely and immediately decided that I would return the following summer, which eventually turned into three summers.

In my four years on staff at Birch Bay I have seen the lives of so many kids and staff change in ways only God can do. I can say in complete confidence that everyone who walks through the gates comes into the presence of the Holy Spirit. Children who feel like no one loves them find security and peace there, people who are guilt ridden find forgiveness, and wounded people find purpose and life; I am one of those people.

The vibrant ministry at the Ranch contributed in countless ways to the fortification of my faith and self-confidence. In turn, I have been able to share my experiences and my gifts with the kids and see God work in them through my witnessing; what could be better than that?

I know without a doubt that if Birch Bay Ranch were to close, the lives of thousands of people would be affected in irreparable ways. A place like Birch Bay connects the hearts of so many people; it has nothing to do with human strength or ability but everything to do with the love and the majesty of our God. The dedication to the furthering of His kingdom on earth is so tangible at Birch Bay. It is His ranch; it is a place where people are given the opportunity to meet Him and come to love Him there.

Emily Mack