Empowering At-Risk Youth in Baldwin County
Light of the City is a front-line, hands-on ministry designed to share Christ’s message of faith, hope, and love in Baldwin County, AL. Since 2008 the program has filled a crucial gap in the county’s lower-income communities, providing tutoring, enrichment, and an array of other services to children and families through a year-round after-school program and an annual six-week summer camp.
Provided at no cost to the children who attend, Light of the City fosters holistic growth through engaging activities such as Bible study, outdoor adventures, arts, music, and dance. Dedicated adult counselors lead the way, many of whom are current or former educators from the Baldwin County public school system.
A program like Light of the City that provides continuous care and individual attention for kids free of charge is priceless to the parents and kids. Around 95% of kids in the program are low income and are on the “reduced lunch” program. At age 15, many former participants get the chance to become teen leaders who help run the camps.
Light of the City Summer Bible Camp
The Light of the City Summer Bible Camp is a beacon of hope and support for at-risk youth in Baldwin County, AL. Operating for seven weeks, Tuesday through Friday, this camp plays a vital role in filling a crucial gap in the county’s lower-income communities.
The camp, which comes at no cost to the children who attend, fosters holistic growth through engaging activities such as Bible study, arts, outdoor adventures, music, and dance. Dedicated adult counselors, many of whom are current or former educators from the Baldwin County public school system, lead the way. Under the guidance of John Eads, VOA Southeast Youth Director, who has been part of VOA Southeast since 2007 and founded the Light of the City in 2008, our camp thrives. John is also the Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Light of the Village, a ministry serving children and youth in the Prichard and Mobile communities since 2001.
In the summer of 2023, 132 students attended daily, showcasing the impactful reach of the Light of the City beyond its walls. This camp creates a positive ripple effect in the lives of the families it serves, embodying a commitment to the well-being and growth of the community.