An interview with George, Sandra and Austin Berbaum
Helping out at Calvary with the summer kid programs is such a priority for the Berbaum family (George, Sandra, and 10th grade son Austin), that they even take some of their vacation days to be a part of it!
They have been volunteering at Calvary’s summer fun activities for about 12 years. George explains, “We started doing this many years ago, and each year, as it builds up and develops, it becomes more fun and exciting to be a part of it. It’s a lot of fun to be around kids and now at church, when they see us, they ask if we’re coming again this year. The relationship and friendship with kids and their parents is another connection with Calvary as it helps to form bonds with the people here.”
Sandra agrees, saying “In additional to the relational aspect, I think it also allows us to focus on the missional aspect. One of the ways I look at this is instead of traveling to another place in the world to reach people, I think it can be done right here in the community. For some of the children coming, it may be the first time hearing about Jesus, and I can help out with that.”
A great reason a teenager would want to get involved, Austin points out, would be because “it’s a chance to help out in teaching the kids and normally we don’t get to do that very much – since we’re the ones being taught.”
What are some of the ways to help for people who prefer a more individual role or maybe one in the background? George explains, “There are so many ways to help out also in the background, such as prepping, 1st aid station, snacks stands, and water stations. You can be around and help, but don’t have to have contact with lots of children. But maybe you’ll be surprised and find out that working with kids isn’t all that crazy and in fact, is really rewarding!”
For more information about getting involved with this year’s summer outreach – KidFest – click here