Letter from Peter Bloom, CCI/Canada Ambassador
May 2010
CCI Canada began through the initiative of two Ontario camps, Pioneer and Teen Ranch. Becoming involved with Pioneer Camp in the early sixties, I became very much aware of CCI as the Pioneer office served as the headquarters for CCI Canada. Joining the Pioneer full time staff in 1974, I was keen to participate in CCI realizing its value to the camping ministry in Canada. In retirement I was asked by the board in 2003 to become the Ambassador because of my longtime involvement with the Canadian and International organization.
1. What are my duties as Ambassador?
My tasks as the Ambassador for CCI are for the most part a continuance of the goals I’ve always held as a priority while directing camp. Through my contact with other leaders in camping at events planned by CCI, I benefited immensely on a personal level and in knowledge gained in every area of camping. I’ve just continued to encourage others to make involvement in CCI a priority. I look forward to attending regional and national conferences and the opportunity they afford to interact with others and attend sessions that address the unique challenges that face leaders in camping today. I see my role as an encourager to fuel a passion for this ministry while offering vision and insight from a long-term perspective.
2. What is the Latin American Exchange project and what is my involvement?
CCI has partnered with countries internationally to give support and encouragement in the development of Christian camping throughout the world. Canada has had the privilege of working together with Latin America. I have been involved in these exchange programs for many years and as CCI Ambassador have been asked to coordinate this program.
3. What is the benefit of a project like this?
This summer we have four Latin directors visiting and participating in several Ontario camps for a three-week period. They benefit from observing how camps operate in our country and discern how they might implement similar programs in their own situations. It is always a delight to host these men and women who demonstrate such commitment to their calling and are so eager to gain new ideas.
A number of directors from Canada have been invited to participate in conferences in Latin America. We have each returned with a renewed sense of vision as we have observed their passion for Christ and their tremendous vision for Christian camping.
Although not officially partnered with Australia, we have developed an exchange program between our two countries that has similarly been mutually beneficial. Both Canadian and Australian directors’ tours are planned for 2011. I highly recommend participation in these exciting tours. We have so much to gain from their creative leadership in camping and their desire to serve God effectively. We cover our own transportation costs while the host country offers hospitality in accommodation and planned events throughout the tour.
4. How can you be a resource to our member camps?
I’m willing to be of help in any way I can. Besides connecting at CCI events, I’m available by phone should anyone want to chat about concerns and challenges they face in their camping environment. If I’m not able to help, I’ll try to connect them with the right resource. I have acted as consultant with directors and their boards in several camps across the country as they have worked through the process of envisioning new directions. This has been an opportunity to introduce non-member camps to the tremendous resources available through CCI membership.
Blessings,
Peter