Charis Camp to mark 75th anniversary on Saturday with free food, Easter egg hunt

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Given the difficulty the camp faced at one point during the COVID-19 pandemic, including staff layoffs, it’s easy to see why the camp is eager to celebrate its 75th anniversary this Saturday, April 8 with an open house get together from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

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“Recently, during the floods, with the help from the generosity of their eastern Hillsides neighbours, the churches of Chilliwack and people all across Canada, Charis Camp hosted over 180 displaced people during the month following the disaster,” Duncalfe said. “It really was a highlight after the two previous years of being mostly shut down by the pandemic. The hope of celebrating [our] 75th anniversary also faced delay as they worked to make their way back from having to lay off most of [our] staff. Finally, after flood and Covid, the celebration will take place, this Saturday, April 8, from 10 a.m to 2 p.m.”

The faith-based camp, which means grace in Greek, was named by one of its two founding pastors, Rev. Ewald Lieske. The other founding pastor was Rev. A.G. Knopf. Beyond the fun that comes with camp, Charis strives to make a difference in young lives through staff who love to encourage and care, most of whom are volunteers. As a-faith based camp, there is significant time spent teaching important principles from scripture.

Over the years, Duncalfe says Charis Camp has built a great relationship with the city of Chilliwack through hosting a variety of sports teams and guest groups.

By opening up its facility this Saturday, Charis Camp says it wants to give back to the community that has supported it faithfully over the years.

“It is a way to say thank you to our friends, supporters and community for all they have done for us, during the floods and over the years,” Duncalfe said. “Whether you have been around forever, or it’s your first visit, you are welcome!”

There will be free food with a BBQ starting at 11 a.m., free activities (archery, low ropes course, duck race down the creek, cake walk), and an Easter egg hunt.

The Cedar & Moss coffee shop at Charis Camp will also be open its regular hours from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., for those who wish to purchase a specialty coffee or a treat.

Visit Charis Camp & Conference Centre on Facebook for more information. It is located at 51935 Hack Brown Road in Chilliwack.