Breakaway
What a summer it’s been. Aside from the heat, humidity and hurricanes, we’ve had some tremendous gains here at Lift. We kicked off the summer with the most overwhelmingly wonderful Breakaway we’ve ever hosted! Compared to previous years, our numbers grew just over 30%, but the growth in no way diluted the sense of community.
For those who attended, camp felt like an ever expanding family reunion. One mom mentioned, after having taken her daughter to numerous renowned camps for individuals living with disabilities, she wasn’t expecting Breakaway to differ much from the typical camp experience. However, after leaving she felt like she and her daughter had gained family, something they had yet to experience at a camp. Along with new families and campers, we also partnered with new organizations this year.
First Baptist of Winter Garden contributed to our FL Breakaway by throwing our campers a glow in the dark themed dance. It was by far one of the most fun dances we’ve ever had! In Missouri, TCC gives partnered again this year with the MO Breakaway team to help support financially and through the generous partnership of volunteers. The Skiing program at Lake St. Louis had a record number attendees, and we couldn’t have done it without the help of a Toyota grant and the MDWSA volunteers.
After such a successful year, we can’t wait for what 2020 has in store. Only 273 days until Breakaway 2020…not that we’re counting.
Boost
Breakaway isn’t the only program expanding. Our Boost programs, now totaling five locations between FL and MO, are all growing steadily. Attendees have mentioned time and again the importance of Boost in helping them make lasting connections with other community members and families living with disability.
As we head into fall with a heart full of gratitude for our Boost community, we’ve decided to consciously focus on reaching out. We will be “FALLing in love” with those around us by serving the community with unbridled generosity. For example, Winter Garden’s partnership with Operation Christmas Child will allow Boost attendees to help fill and pack shoeboxes to send to children and families in need all over the world. Stay tuned for updates on more “FALLing in love” Boost events!
Winter Retreat
We are excited to announce the theme for the 2019 Winter Retreat is “Hidden”. The focus scripture for the weekend is Psalm 61:4, “I long to dwell in your tent forever and take refuge in the shelter of your wings.” NIV. During this unforgettable weekend, we will be focusing on the importance of dwelling in the Presence of The Most High.
We live in an era where distraction is available to us 24/7. Whether it’s in the form of candy crush, social media, or an incoming email, we always have the option to disconnect from the moment and be swept away by a constant stream of distraction. Our goal is to make Winter Retreat 2019 a time of peace and constant dwelling before the Lord. During your two-night stay, one of our compassionate crew members will assist your family to guarantee the best family experience possible. Breakaway Winter Retreat is a unique way to see God reach through one’s hands and elevate someone else.
