About The Need
It’s pure and simple, everyone needs an occasional day of fun, with nothing else on the plate… just a mind-clearing day of fun.
Our clergy and other ministry workers are under more pressure today than ever before. Their mental strain is endless. They often struggle to find time for personal fun and encouragement with no strings attached. Well known author Dr. Archibald Hart once said, “I don’t know of any other vocation that is more hazardous than that of a pastor.” He made that statement in part because our clergy today are being pushed unknowingly down the road toward burnout!
Focus On The Family recently aired a broadcast in which the topic of discussion was how we as a church have applauded the out of balance lifestyle of our ministers for years. We expect them to be "on" 24/7 with little to no personal margins. Yet whenever the inevitable consequences occur from living that out of balance life, we quickly kick them to the curb. These things are happening right now. Unfortunately most of us barely realize how the daily strain of ministry can be all-consuming.
About Our History
The idea and motivation for us to provide an unencumbered day of recreation was born in January of 2009. It began after a local pastor was invited by a friend to a spontaneous day of adventure out of his office. His experience lasted only about 4 or 5 hours, yet proved to be a tremendous time of personal renewal. Almost immediately thereafter, the idea of formally hosting a program for other ministry workers was brought up, discussed, and prayed over.
Over the next several weeks and months we pursued the concept, and spent time interviewing and questioning others in ministry about our plans. The overwhelming response was that this concept was much needed and long overdue. The next several steps happened quickly, and by the month of April we were fine tuning our program. We incorporated as a federally recognized non-profit organization in June of 2009, and today we continually seek to find new and creative ways to invigorate and renew the hearts of the servants of God.
About Our Goals
Our top ten goals are simple:
1 - To provide a brief oasis to anyone in full or part time ministry
2 - To facilitate these moments of oasis in an environment where there are no strings attached, and people are comfortable enough to be themselves
3 - To proactively combat the spiritual fatigue associated with those in ministry positions
4 - To host an individual or small group two to three times per year to an afternoon, day, or weekend retreat outside the realms of their congregation or organization
5 - To show through our program, visible, positive results in the spirit and effectiveness of one's ministry
6 - To remind the supporters of these individuals that the constant outpouring of their leaders occasionally needs refilling
7 - To encourage their supporters to continually invest in the overall well-being of their staff
8 - To promote an awareness that we all need a break from time to time, and to invest now in someone’s life to prevent them from dealing with a breakdown later
9 - To act as a resource for counseling organizations, and assist them with temporary diversions that promote healthy recoveries
10 - To follow the example of Jesus, as he would regularly take a break from his ministry to recharge and ultimately accomplish more for his kingdom
About Our Director
Andy Bowersox is a professional real estate developer. He is a married father of three, and has long been known as a generous, fun loving, and adventurous friend. He is gifted at reaching others with encouragement and facilitating unique experiences for them.
For many years he has felt that someday God may additionally lead him into some sort of unique ministry or outreach. That time came during the winter of 2008-2009. In the midst of a national recession and slow moving real estate market, it seemed he had lots of free time to invite others on the various types of fun excursions he is known for. One of those day trips included his children’s pastor from their home church. (Please see “Our History” section). Upon the encouragement of this pastor, Andy has willingly accepted the position of our initial director. He considers it a true blessing and privilege to provide for and host this program.
About Our Support
We operate on a donation basis only. While we do not charge a set fee for our offerings, we offer gift certificates to any of our locations and activities for a recommended donation of $295. Our program is meant to be used as a gift of appreciation for someone you love. For that reason we do not take requests from an individual seeking to personally benefit.
If you would like to help us expand our efforts, please contact us today.
About Our Schedule and Availability
Currently we are able to offer our program about two to three days per week. We understand there is a certain value to being able to access our program last minute; however we suggest that you contact us as early as possible if you would like to plan a day for someone.
