| Sunshine and Sling Shots: Kicking Bear Hits the Mark in Karlstad
By Andrea Borvold
This is an amazing write up about our Kicking Bear Camps in a public newspaper!
It was a beautiful, sunny day in the northwest Minnesota as families gathered in Karlstad for the first-ever Kicking Bear Adventure Day. Hosted by Darvis and Tami Russell on their property, the event welcomed nearly 100 kids and parents for a full day of fun, faith, and outdoor adventure. The Russells partnered with Newfolden Evangelical Free Church (NEFC), the Kicking Bear Foundation, and a dedicated group of local volunteers to bring the free event to life.
Children had the chance to try a variety of hands-on activities, including archery, slingshots, BB guns, tomahawk throwing, fishing, an obstacle course, crafts, and Hayrides. For those eager to compete, there were foot races, wheelbarrow races, tug-of-war and even a marshmallow fight.
Though a tornado warning was issued in Kittson County that afternoon, organizers believe divine protection played a part, “Just as God parted the Red Sea,” said Tami Russell, “He split the storm that was on track to hit the event-it went north and south instead.”
The day ended with a powerful message from Ray Howell, Founding Servant of Kicking Bear Foundation. “I witnessed a community come together to make a positive impact on kids’ lives,” Howell shared. “Under the leadership of Tami and Darvis Russell, the Karlstad volunteer team was amazing!”
Howell spoke about God’s deep love for each child and adult in attendance, encouraging them with the reminder that God has a plan and a purpose for every life. The gospel was shared, prayers were offered, Bibles were handed out, and hearts were touched.
Kicking Bear is a national ministry that hosts Adventure Camps across the United States aiming to connect kids with the outdoors while sharing the hope and love of Christ. To learn more about their mission or to make a donation, visit www.kickingbear.org.
Organizers plan to bring the event back to Karlstad next year and will post updates on the NEFC Facebook page as plans unfold. |
