Published: June 20, 2009 02:17 pm      

Goshen students working at faith-based camps

This summer, a record number of Goshen College students — 33 — will participate in the college’s three inquiry programs. Of those students, 10 will participate in the Camping Inquiry Program, where they will work at Christian-based summer camps throughout the country to develop leadership skills and grow in their faith.

Two Goshen residents are among the participants.

Krista Kaufman, a sophomore social work major from Goshen, is working at Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp in Divide, Colo. Kaufman, daughter of Rodney and Jeanine Kaufman, is a 2008 graduate of Goshen High School and attends East Goshen Mennonite Church.

Laura Schlabach, a junior communication and environmental science double major from Goshen, is working at Drift Creek Camp in Lincoln City, Ore. Schlabach, daughter of Jay and Tina Schlabach, is a 2006 graduate of Bethany Christian Schools and attends Waterford Mennonite Church.

Now in its eighth year, CIP is a collaborative effort by Goshen College, students’ home congregations and the host camps.

With the help of endowments, CIP enables students to participate in a leadership internship and receive a $1,500 scholarship toward their return to college in the fall and a $500 summer stipend.

Goshen College has had a total of 57 students take part in CIP since it began in 2002. CIP grew from a donor couple’s (Larry and Janet Newswanger) life-long interest in camping.