Beloved and Beyond is an absolute blessing not only to our camper but to our family! I can trust that my child is in good hands, being loved on and accepted just as she is and my husband and I can get some much-needed respite during her time at camp. Camp is what we look forward to all year!
Beloved and Beyond is one of the best camps that I have been to! It encompasses all aspects of ministry reaching so many different types of people. They reach parents, middle school, high school, and college students while also getting to serve people ages 7-60 with disabilities. They get to teach their volunteers about Jesus while actively teaching them how to be the hands of feet of Jesus to the campers with special needs. I got to experience the hope, holistic love, and grace of Jesus like I have never experienced any where before!
This Summer Camp is awesome! Coming to camp two years ago changed my life. This camp cares for its campers, volunteers, and staff so well. Each camper has a trained one on one buddy along with 2 trained staff over each cabin. The support staff have a positive impact on each person they come in contact with. The food here is above almost all camp food I have ever had. Truly remarkable place!
Beloved & Beyond truly is a special organization and I am grateful for the positive impact it has had on my family. I highly recommend this nonprofit to anyone looking to make a difference in the lives of others and to those seeking a meaningful and rewarding volunteer experience.
Both of my sons have volunteered several times at Camp Beloved & Beyond, and the impact it has had on our family is truly immeasurable. This organization has provided them with an incredible opportunity to not only serve their community, but to also grow as compassionate leaders. Each session they participate in leaves a lasting impression on them, helping them to strengthen their spiritual growth.
I am continually impressed by the facility and organization of the camp. The environment created is one that fosters connection, growth, and fun for all campers. Glen and his team are incredibly responsive, making the entire experience seamless and enjoyable.
I am thrilled to see the program expanding and we are eager for our boys to continue their volunteer work with Camp Beloved & Beyond.
Just today my son, Camp (12), was telling me "I had so much fun last summer at camp". After trying to send Camp to a "typical" summer camp experience, and it not working, we were SO grateful when we found Beloved + Beyond! The summer camp experience is something we have always dreamed our kids would have, and without B+B, that dream would not be a reality. The 1:1 buddies Camp has had the past 2 summers have made a huge impact on him - not only his faith, but his confidence in himself. He felt so LOVED at camp, and that is not an easy thing for him to feel quickly. We frequently look at his book of photos from the summer, and reflect on all the fun activities (he loves the pool, the slide, horseback riding, fishing, talent show, archery), and also on his cabinmates. There is never a lack of stories! His younger sister is coming next summer as a "sibling camper", and I can't wait for all my neurotypical kids to catch the vision for this amazing place and be able to serve. 10/10 recommend to anyone who wants to impact special needs kiddos AND their families! Because it truly is such a gift for us as parents too.
I bring a group of 20 students each summer to volunteer at Camp Beloved and Beyond. They get to experience what it means to be the hands and feet of Jesus in tangible ways, begin to see themselves as part of the community of people with special needs, and to see people with special needs as part of THEIR community. Additionally, my students always bring back wonderful stories of how they were encouraged and energized by the work they do as volunteers, with most of them coming to understand what Jesus meant when He said that "whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant" (Mk. 10:43) and to truly put the needs of others ahead of their own (Phi. 2:3), loving them as themselves (Mk. 12:31). We absolutely love coming to serve at Camp every year!
I have never been a place where the presence of the Lord is so evident. Every staff member, volunteer, and camper leaves changed! Beloved and Beyond is incredible and being part of it has changed my life.
What an amazing experience! Watching God’s work right before your eyes will change you. I heard it said many times last week, “camp changes lives” and it is true. I am a testament to that. I walked into an opportunity not knowing what to expect and what I got was an abundance of love, joy, and God’s GLORY! Beloved and Beyond is an amazing place for campers to go and learn about Jesus and be loved and love others back. I loved my experience and I will be back.
My story with this ministry began in 2008 when I met camp directors, Glen and Laura Elder. What drew me to camp was its message of fun, love, and acceptance to the special needs community, but what keeps me involved is the camp culture created by the leadership team that truly changes the lives of all involved. I co-lead a team of volunteers from Tennessee to serve a term each summer, and during the remainder of the year, we pray, fundraise, and spread the love for Beloved and Beyond. As an adult leader, watching teens serve selflessly is an amazing opportunity, but equally important is witnessing the transformation of teens and young adults as they grow in God’s love. I encourage anyone who is considering a ministry/mission service opportunity to become a part of the camp experience at Beloved and Beyond. Camp changes lives - mine included!
This year, 2024, will the the 18th consecutive year my son James (31-YO) has attended Camp with Glen, Laura and their amazing, dedicated team. My son has a dual diagnosis of autism and epilepsy, and is also highly allergic to gluten and dairy. Every aspect of Camp runs smoothly and a priority is always on safety. I am a mom who is divorced, then widowed. In 2006, I had not had any kind of vacation in 15 years. When James was a 3rd year camper, I felt so comfortable with Glen, Laura and the team, that I thought, "Maybe I could actually go on a vacation!" I did. I flew with my eldest son to the Pacific Northwest for the first time and we spent 4 glorious days visiting my daughter and family. My healing had started to begin.
What happens at Camp? The incredible 'cheer line' when campers arrive at the entrance to is the most welcoming and exciting event one can ever imagine. The cabins and facilities are top-notch, as are the cabin moms and dads who lovingly oversee the campers. Since my son has dietary restrictions, all his delicious meals are prepared gluten-free and dairy free. I never have to worry he is going to eat something that he shouldn't.
The activities, too numerous to mention, are tailored to the fact that God loves them unconditionally, and campers are shown acceptance, incredible fun, and socialization, all in the great outdoors—and indoors too. My son loves horseback riding, swimming, the zipline, the BIG Swing, crafts, and the dance party. In addition, he has sung in the talent show every year. There is a spiritual component called the Cross Carry, which is touching and prayerful. In closing, if you are a single parent, married couple or grandparent with responsibilities for a special needs loved one, I can highly recommend and assure you that Beloved and Beyond Camp is the gem of a Camp for which you've been looking.
Sincerely, Liz Searcy
I can’t express how inspiring it is to see the amazing young men and women dedicate a week of their summer to be love to a special kid! It’s humbling to witness how much they do, how much they care, and how much they are willing to sacrifice their own desires for others!
Camp Beloved and Beyond has been the highlight of our summer for the last 3 years. As a parent of 2 kids with special needs, I often feel overwhelmed by the responsibility and very alone, having few people in my life who can truly understand and support me. But when I am there at camp, I feel that burden lifted. I get to see my son and daughter experience activities and friendship, unlike anything at home. And I personally am surrounded by others who encourage me and even teach me better ways to love and engage with my own children.
Camp Beloved and Beyond is the only camp we've ever known that can truly meet your child where they are and create a camp experience that blesses them individually, with such special one-on-one attention. In addition, this camp provides a wonderful enriching opportunity for not just the campers, but the volunteers as well. Everyone is blessed by being there!
Our kids' favorite thing about being at camp is meeting their buddy and having a friend who shows them personal attention all week long. They only see that buddy for a few short days, but they talk about them for the rest of the year. It's one of the few times they feel truly seen, loved, and cheered for; they leave camp with a new sense of courage and self-worth that carries on throughout the year.
If you're worried about sending your child to camp, wondering if they will be able to care for their needs and protect them. Don't! The volunteers at this camp go above and beyond to treat each camper with respect, care for them individually, and protect them from harm. They are loved very well!
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My son has been at a camp run by the Elders for many year. The first year I took him, I cried all the way home, so grateful for someone to love and care for my son and give us a break. He had a great time! They never had to call me! When the Elders opened Beloved and Beyond, of course we were quick to sign up and trust them so much. They love Jesus, love to train others to work with special needs kids, love to give parents a break, and love my son. Thank you for the opportunity for my son to go to camp!
Beloved and Beyond is like Heaven on earth- getting to see people through the eyes of Jesus, build relationships in the most authentic ways, and getting to be known and celebrated for who God created us to be. I have learned so much through this ministry and the people the make it what it is. I am forever thankful for the Lord's provision and faithfulness shown to Beloved and Beyond. It has truly changed my life.
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This ministry continues to change my life. It's true that Beloved and Beyond is a camp ministry for people with special needs, but it is also so much more. Whether you are a volunteer, camper, family member, staff member, board member or stranger to this organization, you cannot deny the love and joy of Christ that contagiously spreads to all those who are a part of this experience. It is a reminder of the purpose we have in life- individual weeks of the summer that are full of acceptance, selflessness, Christ-like love, and truly the most incredible and impactful people I have ever met. It is an honor to serve the Lord and these amazing people in this capacity. I have learned so much about the Lord's love and what it means to be a servant. I would not trade my time, prayers and experience with the camp for anything!
Loving, Christ-centered camp that lives the definition of service to children and families with special needs!
Beloved and Beyond holds a special place in my heart. My twin daughters have attended summer camp for over ten years. One as a camper and one as a volunteer. It is an amazing place of inclusion, happiness, independence, camaraderie, and love. It is a place filled of faith and blessings.
Each of my daughters, in their own way, have returned each summer with heartfelt stories of amazing experiences. Swimming, zip line, big swing, fishing, and horse back riding are some of their favorite activities.
Glen and Laura Elder have successfully grown a ministry of love and devotion. They spend endless hours making camp THE best experience for each camper, no matter the special ability. The extra thought they put into their team and their team of volunteers does not go unnoticed. These young men and women walk away with a new understanding, a new faith and a new determination to make the world a better place. I know this because my daughter who volunteered was moved to continue working with those specially abled as an adult.I know the same can be said for many volunteers who have dedicated their summer to these kids.
Trust is the word I would use to sum up Beloved and Beyond. We continue to send our daughter because we trust their leadership and vision.
I love Beloved and Beyond! I have volunteered with them for two years now, and it has been life changing, and you come out with so many new best friends!
I wish I could give them 55 stars. Beloved and Beyond has become family. Their love for our son, Tyler, is like none other. Tyler has gone from a camper to working summers on the BEyond Team. They have helped him get out of his comfort zone. We are so thankful for this group.
I’ve been a camper for 16 years and this group of people are THE BEST EVER! The love of Jesus is shared everywhere! Camp changes lives❤️❤️❤️
Hi, my name is Kate Miller and I have had the privilege of having my life and seeing other lives be changed at Beloved and Beyond over this past summer. This is a place that I have never seen before. It naturally welcomes all people, cares for their wants and needs while embracing fun and shared experiences all to help people understand the gospel. From what I saw all summer long, people step into our camp, meet our people and fall in love with it all. The love and joy you feel and see at Beloved and Beyond is unique and unlike most places. This is truly my favorite place on earth, because of the people and the experiences.
This camp has been one of the best experience that our kids have had, sibling week really changed their lives. Our daughter loved all the team and activities and for sure she will be back. We are so grateful with Glen and the crew for making this happen. Beloved and Beyond is an amazing experience and my kids just cant stop watching the videos of the camp. Thanks again for all your hardwork
Beloved and Beyond is a blessing to my whole family. Not only do I have a camper but my other daughter has been a volunteer and on staff the past 2 summers. The campers have the opportunity to experience community, make lasting friendships and memories. My camper has learned that other people can care for her as well as I can!. When she goes to camp I have no worries of her needs being met. This camp has also ministered to my daughter that is a volunteer. It has shaped her life and opened her eyes to the love in this community, so much so that she wants a career in the Special Needs community. Camp also allows my husband and I to recharge and do some of the "normal" things in life. Laura and Glen Elder are the heart of Beloved and Beyond and have committed their lives to making a happy place for kids and young adults to enjoy life centered around God.
I love Summer camp!!!!I went to Summer camp last Summer and it was the highlight of the year!!!!And I can't wait to go again!!!!I have been looking forward to it all year round!!!!I'm very excited that it's finally right around the corner and I will be even more excited when I go! This Summer camp is more fun then the one I went to when I was a kid!!!!Ya'll should go!!!!-Peyton
It all started with my son (at the time he was a freshman in high school) serving at camp as a Buddy. He came home after that week of serving, saying "that was the Best Week Ever!" And then my other son, a grade below him, said he wanted to go the next summer.... and so it began... This continued on for our boys and then our daughter, serving in Be Krew when she was old enough, then as a Buddy as she got older. The summer of 2018, the Lord gave me the honor and privilege of serving as a Cabin Parent and that is when God showed me how very special Camp was, and that I was all in! I came back again that summer as a Cabin Parent and new that Special Needs Ministry was exactly where the Lord wanted me. I have had the privilege of returning to camp over and over again and am now on the Advisory Board. Camp for my kiddos was a place where they could uninhibitedly love these campers and be blessed by the love the campers showed them in a way they never imagined. It has changed their lives in ways we could have never dreamt. It has given them so many other opportunities to love on, speak into, and encourage this incredible group of individuals. My kids have also realized the importance of loving all people, right where they are, just as they are, whomever they are!
Because of Glen & Laura Elder and their vision and mission for Special Needs individuals and Camp life, my family's life will forever be changed and for the BETTER. And because of them, and this ministry, I have continued to serve this Amazing community of individuals at Camp as well as in other areas of my local community. Beloved and Beyond is a place of Belonging for any and all. To God Be the Glory for all that He is doing in and through this camp and beyond.
This ministry changed me forever by bringing me back to Jesus in the hardest and darkest parts of my life. I was struggling and searching for answers, swimming in grief and confusion. I volunteered at camp with the Elders for the first time, and the Lord spoke through Laura directly to me. I realized my need for my Savior and just how loved I am by Him. After that first summer, I couldn't get enough of camp. Once you experience Beloved and Beyond, you just keep coming back. I live in Arizona and I continually serve in this ministry because that's how life-changing camp is. I continue to learn more about the Lord and how to love others better every time I go. Working at camp has instilled a passion in me to serve people with special needs. Beloved and Beyond is growing the Kingdom of God by spreading His Goods News, which is ultimately our calling as believers. Come to camp!!!!
-Rebecca Ballard (Narnia)
Our special needs son has attended Beloved and Beyond Summer Camps as well as their Winter Respite Camp. He loves it and looks forward to it every year! Our daughter has volunteered there as a counselor and tells us how well it is run. We know the founders personally and trust them not only with our children, but with our donations as well. We have given to Beloved and Beyond knowing that they are good stewards of the money we send. I trust their leadership and direction of the ministry.
It’s difficult writing a brief review about something as life-changing as Beloved and Beyond ... but everyone needs to know what a special place it is. Our daughter has been going to this camp since it started and went to the camp that was previously operated by the directors. While it is hard trusting anyone with a special needs child, we have never had any reservations with Glen and Laura. The camp is extremely well run and benefits everyone – from the campers to the volunteers. The entire operation is a true reflection of the love of Christ. We are all excited they have purchased a dedicated facility and hope everyone will contribute to the success of the camp with their prayers, contribution and service.
There are no words to adequately express how amazing this camp is. So many people tried to tell us, but it truly cannot be comprehended until you pick your child up after a week at B&B. We had EVERY possible reason NOT to send our son, but we breathed in and trusted God and man - were we blown away.
Not only did our non-verbal, wheelchair-bound, terminally-ill son have the BEST possible time at camp with his incredible buddy, cabin leaders, on-staff nurse, and SO many other friends he met at camp, but Mom and Dad got some well-deserved respite knowing that he was BEYOND loved and cared for.
As parents, we have never had a night alone since our son was born, 9 years of caring for, carrying, feeding, and listening for someone to breathe all night can be a lot. This is not a complaint, just a fact - that this special needs life can be perpetually exhausting. We love our boy to the moon and back, and now we are BLESSED to have found a place we can completely trust with his care and needs while caring for our marriage as well. B&B, you have found a camper and family supporter for LIFE!!! Thank you for loving our boy and these amazing campers SO well. May God bless all of you involved as you have BEYOND blessed our family.
My daughter had an incredible experience at Beloved and Beyond Camp! This camp is the highlight of her year and also provides a much needed respite for parents and caregivers.
BELOVED AND BEYOND definitely goes above and beyond for each individual camper they serve. Directors, board, and staff work hand in hand to give their campers the most positive and loving experience. Emily has made long term friends not only with other campers, but with buddies and staff. Her buddy from her very first camp stay still in touch with each other. It has been an encouraging time. To quote my Emily, ‘this camp changed my life’. She is definitely “better because of an Elder!”
Beloved and Beyond offers an amazing experience, not only to the campers but to the volunteers. This past week I was a volunteer in the same cabin as a camper who hasn't walked in over 10 years. She was able to do the zip line, giant swing, ride horses, and do so much more which was made possible through the camp and the staff. For volunteers, we get to go through devotionals after hours that give us time to share and grow closer to each other and to the Lord. The cabin leaders we are blessed with make the space safe and welcoming and easy to share. Im so thankful that I get to return to camp every year and see the lives that Christ uses it to change.
I loved going to Camp Beloved and Beyond this year. I got to be best friends for a week with a really cool guy named Scott. Scott is amazing, he can’t talk much, but communicates in so many amazing ways. Taking care of him taught me to be responsible and patient. He enjoyed everything that we did at camp. We did a giant swing, giant zip line, rode horses, played in the pool, and many other memorable activities. Taken care of by his mom for his whole 50 years of life, has made him very attached to her. When I told him it was the last day of camp, and he was going to see his mom, he jumped up and down and repeated over and over, “Mama! Mama!”. Seeing her again, he showed her all of the pictures in his scrapbook. He taught me that love is not just a feeling, but a choice. When I chose to love Scott, he really loved hanging out with me, and I really connected with him and got to learn his language. Helping at camp was not all just taking care of one person though. I got to know all of the campers very well, and after the campers went to bed, we would have an amazing devotional with the other volunteers in the cabin. I got to know the volunteers and staffers deeply, creating friendships that will last a long time.
I had a great time at Beloved, but more importantly, my camper did. I learned to love him as an action and a choice, because God loves him and the other campers. The staff were amazing, and so was the fellowship of my cabin. All in all, I had a great week learning about God and spreading His love to the campers. Looking forward to next year!
This summer will be my fourth summer volunteering with Beloved and Beyond and I truly believe the camp has changed my life for the better along with every other volunteer, camper, and staff member that has experienced this camp. I have heard many campers say that this camp is their favorite part of the year, it is wonderful to see their joy at being there throughout the week! In a world where these children and adults are sometimes excluded, Beloved and Beyond is a place that they can truly experience the love of Jesus that he desires for them to know. Laura and Glen Elder are amazing and this camp is a true work of God!
We can't even put in to words how amazing the entire team is at Beloved and Beyond camp! Our 22 year old daughter has been attending camp with the Elders since she was about 11 and it is her favorite place!! Our other 2 daughters have also attended camp as siblings and as volunteers and it is life changing for them too. This is truly a place where the special needs community can feel loved and share unique indoor and outdoor experiences with others! I highly recommend Beloved and Beyond camp.
Our daughter loves this camp! It provides her with an amazing experience that she keeps within her all year long. The staff and volunteers involved are both well trained and selfless workers. They demonstrate deep compassion and share the love of Christ. She forms a bond with them that lasts past camp and shows their authentic love. Beloved and Beyond is a great opportunity for a person with special abilities to have a real camp adventure in a safe and loving environment.
We have had the privilege of volunteering with the staff of this organization for 7 years. Our 2 sons found a passion for befriending and caring about kids and adults with special needs through volunteering as one on one buddies to campers and then working on staff under the directors Glen and Laura Elder. We have made so many friends in this community and are incredibly blessed to be a part.
Beloved and Beyond, the absolute hands down best camp experience for campers with all special abilities. They have the most amazing staff and volunteers who love and care for their campers all with a passion for creating relationships, community and respect for those in their care. From the time I pick her up my daughter can talk only about when she gets to go back to her vacation camp.
Beloved and Beyond staff and volunteers treat all campers equally and allow them the opportunity to truly experience every aspect of camp. Every camper, every ability is given an opportunity to participate in all activities (zip line, giant swing, ropes courses, horses, etc.), the entire staff is patient and kind and take pride in providing all campers with the perfect camp experience. Most of all, this staff takes pride in spreading the hope and love of Jesus Christ to our kiddos with special abilities. Each camper is treated as an equal and they lift up and pour into every camper so that when they leave they feel not only the love of the Beloved and Beyond staff but the love of Jesus Christ and in turn know how valuable and awesomely made they are. I would recommend Beloved and Beyond to anyone looking for a safe, fun and inclusive camp experience for their child.
This place is awesome. The staff and leaders are caring, well trained and very capable. They love their campers and each other so well. It’s the best thing about summer.
Hi, my name is Justin. I have been a camper for a few years now. I can honestly say you will not find any other place that has so much compassion for the disability community. Beloved and Beyond is truly a life changing place. They have helped shape me into the man that I am today. Everyone, from the staff to the volunteers genuinely care about each other. Your child will truly love it. They will leave with a new perspective about themselves and the world around them just like I did. My advice is get signed up immediately. You will not regret it.
This is an EXCELLENT camp! Glen and Laura truly LOVE our "kiddos"! We have been with them for many years and they are the only camp we use. The receiving line for our campers at check in makes me cry every time. ALL of those camp helpers and buddies being there because they WANT to be there is incredible. I can't tell you how many times THEY thanked US for allowing our son to go to camp! It is the other way around as well!! They keep our campers busy, safe, loved and share God through out the campers' stay! I recommend them every chance I get (after I have registered ;) and will continue to as long as they have a camp for our special needs children and adults. God Bless Glen and Laura and all those who make my son's camping experience AWESOME!
Camp Beloved and Beyond has been amazing for me the past 10+ years I have been going. It has helped me come out of my shell and showed me the love and support I needed. The staff and Volunteer Buddies have been amazing and showed me that even though I am disabled I can still do things just sometimes differently. They don’t treat me any different and that means sooo much to me because a lot of people do. I see everyone at camp as my best friends and family. I don’t feel like a outcast when I am with them or even talking to them. I highly recommend this camp to everyone.
I volunteered as a nurse in the Beloved & Beyond clinic in the summer of 2021. The staff provided exceptional care for the campers and staff. The clinic staff and volunteers cared for some high acuity campers safely and with skill. They minimized disruptions to camp activities when providing care and really helped the campers to have a wonderful week! All of the staff and volunteers were amazing and I cannot speak highly enough of the leadership! ! The love that they have for campers is evident in their actions. They share the love of GOD with children, teens and adults with disabilities. The Beloved & Beyond team says that camp changes lives and it certainly does! The outpouring of love from leadership, staff, and volunteers impacts every single person at camp in the deepest way. The Beloved & Beyond team is truly spectacular!!
THiS CAMP! THESE PEOPLE! WoW! I cannot brag enough about this ministry! Beloved and Beyond is changing and shaping the hearts of campers and teen volunteers and the families that love them. All four of my teenagers have served with Laura and Glen Elder and are forever changed by them and the beauty that happens at this special camp. After our children volunteered, they came home with a renewed sense of love and grace for others and that has rippled to others. We are beyond thankful that this precious camp not only serves campers, but models joy and service to the teen volunteers who attend! We are humbled to support this ministry and its beautiful love for others.
B&B is an incredible organization that loves and serves people with different abilities. They are by far the best camp for individuals with special needs in Texas- the leadership is amazing, the staff is trained so well, and everyone goes above and beyond to make sure campers have the best week possible. I’ve never had a bad experience here and I can’t wait to send my kiddos to volunteer someday. Camp Beloved is amazing!!!
Beloved and Beyond is an amazing experience for all participants. It is well organized, the volunteers are well trained and the staff is always on hand to help. This ministry allows young teens to older adults the opportunity to learn about and care for the campers. The campers range in age from children to young adults and bring joy and life to all the volunteers! This ministry exhibits true "love in action" with creative ways they allow the campers to engage in activities that all campers think of when attending a summer camp. The campers have diagnoses which include intellectual impairment, autism, Down Syndrome, and genetic diagnoses. The true love of Christ is palpable. This is owed to Glen and Laura Elder, and their family, who planned, fought and prayed for this ministry for years. Never have I seen a ministry more truly exhibit the love of Christ!!