For the past six years, the First Assembly of God church in Great Bend has sponsored a unique kids camp catering to foster children who have been identified as having endured trauma so severe they are unable to cope with a normal summer camp environment. The camp provides a staff to child ratio of 1:2, ensuring there is plenty of support for these neglected or abused children. 

According to Dale MacKinney, children’s pastor, the staff recognizes that these children have been through more than they can explain, and it often comes out in their behaviors. The staff is dedicated to providing the most normal camp experience possible for these children and to provide them with caring adults to remind them that they are valuable, he said. 

To raise funds for the Royal Family Kids Camp, the church is holding its annual 5K for Kids race on Saturday, April 6. Registration information can be found on the church’s social media page. 

The race is family friendly, with prizes and medals for kids. There is also a sleep in option available for those who want to support the camp, but prefer not to race.