Camp CUMCITO - City Union Misson's Camp In The Ozarks
Reaching Out
It takes many hands to make the camp operational -- from counselors to cooks, and each summer more than 250 volunteer for one-week or more. These volunteers are growing, maturing Christians and have participated regularly in a church for the preceding year. Counselors (and most other staff) are "on duty" 22 hours per day. To register as camp staff, send an email to: campworkers@cityunionmission.org. You will receive a reply with registration informaion, or call the camp office at 816-329-1425.
Low-income children throughout Kansas City benefit from the Mission's summer camps, Camp CUMCITO (City Union Mission Camp In The Ozarks) and Tot Lot. Each July, nearly 500 children, ages 4-16, spend a fun-packed week at camp, located near Warsaw, Missouri. Swimming, hiking, crafts, and cookouts fill the day, while Bible teaching, drama, songs, and campfires give kids new hope. Counselors surround the children with love and 
consistent discipline, teaching them about Jesus and a new life living for Him.
"Big Camp" is a sprawling campground complete with hiking trails, a swimming pool, and recreation hall for crafts, snack canteen, chapel, and mess hall. Prior to camp, the children receive a physical exam provided by volunteer doctors - sometimes the only annual physical exam for many of the children. Children pay a registration fee of $5 to reserve their place at camp while donors pay the remainder of the cost for a week of camp for underprivileged children. Over 150 volunteers staff the camp as counselors, cooks, nurses, recreation, and craft assistants, etc. Each child receives a week of love and consistent discipline, along with swimming, lake activities, 
campouts, hiking, Bible stories, dramas and sing-times, great food, and one-on-one counseling.
"Tot Lot" is a unique camp "in miniature" for children ages 4-6. Children find it very comfortable - most adults do not! The children bring no luggage, because their clothing and toiletries are provided for them. Boys and girls sleep in dormitories and play on a one-acre playground while counselors watch over them. For many of these children, the things many take for granted are a big surprise! Each day begins with a visit to the clothing closet where little ones pick out pretty dresses and matching shorts sets. A visit to the flagpole for "The Pledge of Allegiance," exercise time and breakfast follow. After "the toothbrush brigade," the kids flock to the giant playground until Bible story and song time. Following lunch and naptime, the afternoon is filled with pony rides, swimming, and tea parties. The day ends with supper, another story, and a quick shower before bedtime.
At both camps, the staff provides consistent love and discipline to children who may have no stability in their young lives. Dozens of children give their lives to Christ during chapel, at campfires, and during quiet times with staff. After camp, children receive follow-up visits, activity packets, and information about the Vanderberg Youth Center.
If you are interested in volunteering at camp, or if you would like camper information, please click here.
