As a part of the continued series reviewing the Rush County Community Foundation’s “designated endowment” funds, we’ll be taking a weekly look at the Rush County nonprofit organizations that have funds that support their mission and work held at RCCF.  This week’s installment focuses on the Mahoning Valley Christian Services Camp.

Located five miles east of Rushville, the Mahoning Valley Christian Services Camp is a resource that has been a part of the Rush County community since 1943.  The mission of the Mahoning Valley Christian Services Camp is to introduce people to a lifestyle and life work for God.  This mission is fulfilled by providing Bible lessons and organized class and worship times to campers.

The Mahoning Valley Christian Services Camp provides a variety of camp sessions for students interested in an educational, fun outlet during the summer months.  A free day camp is available for students entering first and second grades.  Older students can take advantage of spending a few nights away from home, or those in 4^th grade through high school and get away for an entire week of fun and activity.  Beyond the scheduled Bible lessons, classes, and worship times, organized activities and programs, including canoeing, a pool, and archery tag, are available to campers to keep them occupied throughout their time at camp.  Mahoning Valley Christian Services Camp averages 550 campers each year between the beginning of June and the end of July, an incredible number that serves as a true testament for the Camp’s good work and overall success.

The Mahoning Valley Christian Services Camp has grown into a recognized attraction for local and regional residents alike.  Of the average 550 campers that visit each summer, more than 50% of the campers are from surrounding counties.  In addition to the summer camps, Mahoning Valley has grown into offering more year-round programs:  women’s retreats, weekend camps, etc.  Mahoning Valley Christian Services Camp is able to operate because of ongoing support and funding, including support from the Rush County Community Foundation.

The Harvey M. Arnold, Jr. & R. Genevieve McGhee Arnold Memorial Fund is a designated endowment fund at the Rush County Community Foundation.  This fund provides annual support to the Mahoning Valley Christian Services Camp.  This check is utilized for scholarships for campers that cannot otherwise afford fees to attend camp.  By providing funds for these scholarships, the Arnold Fund ensures that Mahoning Valley is able to further their capacity and reach.

If you are interested in summer camp at Mahoning Valley, it’s the time to inquire!  Registration is now open for the summer camp sessions.  If you would like to support Mahoning Valley and the campers, we encourage you to consider a donation to the Harvey M. Arnold, Jr. & R. Genevieve McGhee Arnold Memorial Fund.  A donation to this fund is invested, providing funds to campers forever.  For further information on donating or the Rush County Community Foundation’s work, visit our website at www.rushcountyfoundation.org, our office at 117 N. Main St., Rushville, or call (765) 938-1177.