​​​Honoring Camp David: Our Mentors, Our History, Our Foundation

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​Hello everyone! If you’re new here, welcome to our Camp Community! We’re thrilled to have you join us. For those wondering about the foundation of our work through Camp David International, here’s a glimpse into the legacy we honor:

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• Our Mission: For 22 years, Camp David has been dedicated to serving the children of prisoners.

• Our Home: They are located in Hesston, Kansas, on a beautiful 61-acre property.

• Whom We Serve: The ministry reaches at-risk children, including foster kids and their families, providing them with the support and love they need.

• Support & Service: As a non-profit, volunteer-based ministry, they rely on the generosity of individuals who believe in this work. We encourage those moved by this mission to learn more about how to volunteer or support their global efforts.

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The Genesis of the Vision (2001–2003)

​The story began in 2001 with a single word—"Camp"—that the founders, Ben and Grace Smith, felt God speak to them after a season of prayer. For two years, they studied how to serve "children at risk," officially establishing Camp David of the Ozarks (CDO) in 2003. Their heart was specifically for the children of prisoners, a group often left behind by society.

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The Backbone of Camp Growth: Philosophy & Programs

​At Camp Growth, we recognize that our structural integrity comes from the years of curriculum and ideas pioneered by Ben and Grace. They are the backbone of our operation.

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• The Birthday Bash for the Boys: A day dedicated to honoring each boy individually, affirming their worth in the eyes of God.

• Princess Day for the Girls: A transformative experience teaching young girls their identity as daughters of the Most High King.

• The "What About It" Curriculum: We utilize the material they refined over decades—now used globally in four languages—to provide a consistent foundation for growth.

• The Philosophy of Fun & Faith: Our goal is to mirror their heart and compassion, ensuring every child has fun while building character and deepening their relationship with the Lord.

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Foundations & Global Expansion (2004–2021)​

• The First Harvest (2004): Launched with 18 children on a family farm in Rolla, Missouri.

• Decade of Flourishing: Grew to serve nearly 225 campers annually with permanent cabins and a Year-Round Mentoring Program.

• Going Global (2017–2019): Ben and Grace expanded internationally, training new leaders and launching camps in Uganda, the Dominican Republic, Southeast Asia, Kenya, and Guatemala.

• The Season of Testing: In 2021, they faced a difficult transition in Missouri, leading them to release their original location and trust God for a new path.

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The Kansas Miracle & Modern Impact (2022–Present)

​The Lord’s provision was revealed while Ben and Grace were in Chico, California, leading them to Hesston, Kansas.

• Debt-Free Victory: On December 20, 2022, God provided the funds to purchase the Cross Wind Camp and Conference Center 100% debt-free.

• Recent Milestones: * Liberia Launch: In 2025, they successfully opened a camp in Liberia, Africa, making a difference for 139 children of prisoners.

  • Equine Therapy: The Rock'n'H Ranch provides year-round healing for the broken through equine therapy.

  • Total Reach: They now oversee 12 camps across 6 nations and 6 states.

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Our Vow of Stewardship

Ben Smith and Grace have been mentors to me, and their 22+ years of faithful service have set a standard we strive to follow. At Camp Growth, we are committed to carrying that legacy forward and offering every child the same hope. While names may change, the ideas, philosophy, and heart behind this work remain an enduring part of the legacy of Camp David.

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The 2029 Legacy Commitment

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"A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children's children..." — Proverbs 13:22 (KJV)

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As we look toward our 2029 milestone, Camp Growth is committed to establishing a Legacy Endowment to honor Ben and Grace Smith's 25 years of service. This fund ensures that the seeds they planted in Missouri and Kansas continue to bear fruit through our outreach here in California. We are not just building a camp; we are sustaining a legacy of hope for the children of prisoners.

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Scriptural Foundation

"And they that shall be of thee shall build the old waste places: thou shalt raise up the foundations of many generations..."

— Isaiah 58:12

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"A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children's children..."

— Proverbs 13:22