Celebrate our Friends with Disabilities during March
Celebrating Camp and Community
One of the most meaningful highlights of our Dakotas Conference Disability Ministry each year is our time at camp. A Dakotas United Methodist camp offers a place where everyone can experience God’s love in a welcoming, accessible, and joy-filled environment. It is more than just a getaway—it is a place where friendships grow, confidence builds, and faith comes alive. Many of our campers have jobs in their communities and have to take time off to attend camp, so we do our best to make it a fun, loving, and relaxing time for everyone!
Cooler weather is especially good for hugs. (Photos from Rev. Quaya Ackerman)
Renee Wildes, a counselor who has attended several Circle of Friends camps, shared some of her impressions. “At camp, they do a dance one evening, and they have a ball with that. We even had a glow-in-the-dark dance with glow sticks.” She recalled, “There was an older gentleman who sat on the edge of the dance floor most of the time, but when a song from the 50s or60s came on, he would just get up and dance. He’s a very quiet man, so it was fun to see his excitement.”
Throughout camp, participants enjoy a wide variety of activities designed so everyone can take part. From crafts and music to outdoor adventures and group games, every activity encourages creativity, teamwork, and fun. Campers often look forward to time around the campfire, singing songs, sharing stories, and reflecting on the ways God is present in our lives.
Another one of the camp leaders, Carey McBride, said there are so many activities for learning and growing. “There are lessons on how to fish and bowl, telling jokes, singing, and then crafts and games galore. ‘My Lighthouse’ is a favorite song.”
Circle of Friends campers at Storm Mountain Center.
One of the most beautiful parts of camp is the sense of belonging. Campers support one another, celebrate each other’s successes, and form friendships that continue long after camp ends. Volunteers and staff work alongside participants, ensuring that everyone feels included, valued, and encouraged.
Faith is woven into each day through devotionals, prayer, and simple moments of reflection. Whether it’s a quiet walk outdoors, singing together, or sharing what we are thankful for, camp creates space for spiritual growth in ways that feel natural and meaningful.
“My favorite memory was when two campers stood on the upper balcony of Allison Hall [at Storm Mountain Center] and sang Via Dolorosa into the valley,” recalled McBride. “It brought tears to my eyes.”
Beyond camp, our ministry continues to offer activities throughout the year—social gatherings, service opportunities, and faith-building events. These gatherings help strengthen our community and remind us that everyone has gifts to share. At Rapid City Open Heart UMC, every week our Circle of Friends gets together for Muffin Monday and “Tuesdays,” which is a time for fellowship and fun! They also hold special events such as “I’m Not Lucky, I’m Blessed” on March 17th for St. Patty’s Day.
At Open Heart UMC, "Muffin Mondays" are popular with the Circle of Friends bakers and the recipients.
We are grateful for the campers, families, volunteers, and supporters who make these ministries possible. Together we create a community where every person is welcomed, celebrated, and loved.
Renee Wildes would tell anyone on the fence about attending, “Just go, and give it a try. It’s so much fun, and there are so many activities.”
If you would like to learn more about upcoming activities or ways to get involved, we would love to connect with you. There is always room for more friends in our Circle of Friends ministry!
Join us this summer at any one or ALL of our 2026 camps! Camp info and registration
Lake Poinsett June 29-July 2
Wesley Acres July 27-31
Storm Mountain August 13-16
Circle of Friends on Facebook
Learn more: United Methodist Disabilities Ministry Website
