January 15, 2026

Over the weekend, seven families enjoyed a weekend getaway at Hidden Acres in New Hamburg, ON: our first Family Camp of 2026! Being away from schedules and appointments created space for connection and rest and we saw so many smiles and heard so much laughter and joy.

At Family Camp, we ate delicious food; had an outstanding game time with Herb; watched a comedy juggling act; took a horse drawn wagon ride; made arts and crafts; sledded; scavenger hunted; and enjoyed a Saturday afternoon café. Mike Mackneer from Parkwood Gardens Community Church in Guelph, Ontario, ans Chad Pilon from Hamilton, Ontario led us in thoughtful prayer and worship each day.

Watch our Family Camp Recap Video to get a glimpse of what the weekend looked like.

Here’s what I learned this weekend: Family Camp offers something that is hard to find anywhere else.

Family Camp is a place where parents don’t need to explain their circumstances, where everybody is welcomed as they are, and where families are surrounded by people who simply get it. Over the weekend, we had the opportunity to meaningfully support families so they could slow down, rest, and reset together.

I also had the chance to spend time with parents and caregivers, and many shared how important this time away is, especially for families in seasons of waiting. Some are waiting for services to begin. Others are navigating long stretches with limited or inconsistent support.

While Family Camp doesn’t remove those realities, it does offer a break. It’s a chance to breathe, to be supported, and to feel less alone.

Moments like this don’t happen by accident. Family Camp is made possible through the care, planning, and commitment of staff and volunteers across Karis. From preparation to presence, and all the work behind the scenes, the efforts of many create experiences that families carry with them long after the weekend ends.

As we look ahead, there are more opportunities coming up to be part of Family Camp:

  • Galilee Bible Camp, Renfrew, ON | February 20–22
  • Muskoka Bible Centre, Huntsville, ON | February 27–March 1
  • New Song Church, Windsor, ON | April 24–25
  • Joy Bible Camp, Bancroft, ON | July 13–17
  • Elim Lodge, Lakehurst, ON | August 24–28

If you know a family or are a part of a family with a member with a disability, you are invited to join us at an upcoming Family Camp. Or, if you’re curious to see Family Camp in action, consider coming as a volunteer and serving alongside others.

To learn more about Family Camp or to register, visit www.karis.org/familycamp.

Family Camp remains one of the clearest expressions of how Karis lives out our values of valuing people, serving others, fostering belonging, and celebrating gifts.

I am confident you’ll find a place of rest, be renewed, and changed.

Thank you for being part of the work that makes this possible.

Bryan Gillmore, Organizational and Spiritual Life Specialist