About the ARTCAMP
At the beginning of August, for the second time, ArtCamp, or rather two ArtCamps, will be held for children and youth from two villages - Kapiyo and Ndere - in the western part of Kenya.
One of the aims of these camps is to encourage young people to develop their skills and talents. We also want to encourage them to learn new skills, offer new perspectives, and develop their imagination, creative thinking, and ability to implement ideas.
In addition, there are Bible programs on a selected topic for ArtCamp participants. We want to talk to people in Kenya about the personal experience we have with God and our faith.
This year, we want to make a joint project of all art disciplines, but also the Bible programs under the theme: creating NEW THING. Because of the relationships we have in the community, we want to draw from the culture of the local Luo tribe when developing programs.
There are two teams involved in the organisation of this project - Kenyan and "Czech" (or rather most of them are from the Czech Republic, but we are enriched by Lizzie from the UK). This gives us the opportunity to inspire each other, learn from each other, but also learn to work together. We want to make ourselves available for God to create a NEW THING in us and with us (Isaiah 43:19).
Last year around 200 children participated in ArtCamps. This year we would like to reach a similar number. Therefore, we expect something between 150 and 200 participants at each camp. The children are divided into groups that are made up across the age spectrum. In the groups, they play games, learn songs and can hear different testimonies. There are also art and sports workshops, depending on their interest, which are held in the back of the church or school.
In all, this makes for 5 days where the children walk to school or church each morning, with teachers coming from further afield. In addition to the opportunity to learn and teach something new, a shared lunch is also included. For many, this is the only meal of the day. Then in the afternoon the activities end and the children and teachers go back home.
our
GOALS
To build a generation that will live in freedom because they are the hope and future of the nation.
To support the growth of their children and community, to point out and strengthen who they are in Christ.
To show the youth of Kenya God's character through sports, art and use them as one of the means of expressing the love of God.
To share our relationship with God in the community.
Why this particular community?
We have good contacts among local people who are trying to help their community, both practically and in spiritual growth.
The last time I was in Kenya, I felt a desire to return sometime and help serve churches that serve in poor areas and do not have rich patrons behind them.
As soon as Hank came up with the idea of expanding Effatha's ministry to Kenya and to just such an unchurched area, I rejoiced.
I am a great supporter of the whole Art Camp project and Hanka's subsequent longer-term work, and I sincerely hope that there will be enough supporters to enable many young, gifted Kenyans to develop their artistic and spiritual potential.
Roman Toušek - Head of Effatha
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