How many readers ever attended summer camp as kid? Whether through the Scouts, YMCA program, or a church youth group, those fond memories from camp last a lifetime. Children today need these experiences, too, perhaps now more than ever. With skyrocketing costs, summer camp is out of reach for many families now. That’s why we’re excited to share a new Ventec partnership with Pine Valley Camp. 

Pine Valley is a faith-based retreat just north of Pittsburgh in Ellwood City. Camp director Matt recently sat down with Ventec owner Larry Vensel to explain how their program operates. 

For the last 25 years, Pine Valley has worked with economically disadvantage youth from urban areas. The camp serves as a ministry by hosting age-appropriate programs for children ages 6-15. Campers are identified through partnerships with other ministries and outreach programs around the Pittsburgh area. Most of the children come from broken homes filled with despair. Camper organizers seek to change the narrative by instilling hope and love into the lives of participants. In fact, Pine Valley’s motto is “rebuilding broken lives through Jesus Christ.”

By bringing campers into a natural setting, they experience week-long adventures filled with fun camp activities and caring adults. Many learn how to swim and ride a horse for the first time. Their core values of faith, family, and fun align well with Ventec’s to honor God and balance work with family. 

Campers’ families pay a nominal registration fee for children to attend. Then, if they qualify, campers will also receive scholarships to cover the full cost of summer camp. For many of the kids who come to Pine Valley, these scholarships make a camp experience financially possible. Donations from the business community generously fund these scholarships. Businesses have also funded camp facilities and many other improvement projects. 

Pine Valley has operated mainly as a summer camp. However, throughout the year, staff make calls to campers to keep tabs on them, providing ministry even from far away. In recent years, organizers have also begun expanding efforts to bring some of the campers back in the winter months. They are currently beginning fundraising efforts to replace the dining hall. 

All of the staff at Ventec understand the importance of serving their community. For Larry, operating Ventec to be a good neighbor just comes with the territory owning a business. Since its beginning, he has sought to support a variety of charities, particularly ones that speak to his Christian values. That’s why Ventec is proud to support Pine Valley’s mission and invites other business owners to consider supporting this special camp as well.

For more information, visit the Pine Valley Camp web site (pinevalleycamp.org) or call Ventec (what the heck?) at 412-793-0661.