Encouraging Words - Share the EXCITEMENT!

David and Anne Trufant are providing a wonderful service to families by offering summer camping opportunities to their children.  Each year they establish an outstanding summer staff who assist in the development of the young people intellectually, socially, and spiritually.  One of our sons was a staff member.  He confirmed the excellence of this summer camp from a counselor's perspective as well as the campers' perspective from those he assisted.  We would recommend the camp very highly.
      Love, Scott and Kimberly Hahn

[My time at the camps] was fun and rewarding for me personally, what with... the breathtakingly beautiful scenery of the camp (which is nestled in the foothills of Pisgah National Forest in Western North Carolina)... and the camp staff, especially the warm and wonderful Catholic couple who own and operate it, Dave and Anne Trufant...  I should also mention that I had a huge time whitewater rafting with the kids, but that's a story for another time...
      Patrick Madrid, Envoy Magazine, vol 9.4

I can always rely on my memories of camp to provide direction in times of uncertainty or composure in the face of chaos. I have made it through 4 years of medical school, an internship, a residency, begun fatherhood, and continue to be the best husband I can. I believe a large part of who I am developed from camp experiences. I thank you and Anne for allowing me the opportunity to serve as a counselor. - SS

With each letter and phone call my daughters spiritual growth and increased self-confidence has been heart-warmingly apparent. Camp Kahdalea gives my girls the emotional strength and sense of responsibility that I pray for them to know…You have created a camp life that reinforces all that makes a healthy foundation for future life choices. And as my daughters face the challenges ahead I have no doubt that they will often reflect upon their camp experiences to make smart decision. I sincerely thank you for the depth of love and Christianity that is Camp Kahdalea.. LB

Our son is still talking about all of his camp experiences. He really liked his counselors. They both seem like really great people. Thanks again for making his camp experience so wonderful. DA

Our son talked nonstop for 10 hours on the way back home and we still hear new stories each time we get together! He learned a lot, built some strong friendships and deepened his love and appreciation for the mountains and God’s creation. JB

I overheard the following declaration by my daughter while driving her and her friends last week: "All I know is I want to go to college in North Carolina. I don’t know if it’s the weather or what. But I just feel so good about myself when I’m there." I’m sure the weather is part of it. But I’m also sure of the "or what". Thank you so much for creating a place for my child to feel good about herself. AM

Every summer when we pick up our son he has grown and expanded as a person and for that we are very grateful. It also reinforces the concept of camp and especially the wilderness aspects of Chosatonga. From the comradeship to the physical challenges Chosatonga has provided our son with experiences that will last a lifetime. DP

Both of our daughters had another wonderful summer. They always come home refreshed, happy energetic and full of delightful stories. Thanks for giving my girls sweet memories to keep forever! PP

Our son came home changed because of the wonderful counselors he was around and the positive experience of being at a Christian camp. We got many wonderful and insightful letters to us during the summer from his counselors. We are so pleased that you choose your counselors with discretion. Our son was greatly influenced by them and the goals they were setting for their lives. Our son came home with a better attitude and more grownup.  JC

Our son was so camp-sick when he got home. All he talked about was how much fun he had and all the new things that he did. I cannot tell you what a difference this is for him! CS

My son has truly grown. Although, we know he still has more to grow! Camp Chosatonga and you have added to our son’s growth, more than I can say. Thank you for being there for my son. MD

I am so sad as I leave this place. I have made lifelong friendships you cannot find anywhere else. It is a feeling you can only understand if you have experienced it. AS

Some of my favorite memories and the best friends were made last summer. Just last week I was trying to explain to someone about my camp friends. It simply cannot be done. They wanted to know how I could possibly be best friends with someone I only knew for a few weeks during the summer and who lives hundreds of miles away. I guess it’s hard for someone who’s never experienced a friendship like that to understand. JM

Still, not a day goes by that one of them isn’t mentioning someone or something that happened at camp. They sing the songs, they tell stories - all overflowing with fond memories. CT

I want to thank you for such an awesome summer. It truly was the best of my life. I learned so much - about myself, other people, the Lord. Not to mention all of the outdoor skills. One of the big things I learned about myself this summer is that I can do anything I want to. JB

We just got the camp application for next year and it prompted me to do what I’ve meant to do all summer - write to you. My son had a wonderful time; he said it was the best experience of his life. AF

The friendships I made, the self confidence that I gained, the strengthened faith I gained, and the fun I had are such precious gifts to bring home. My whole outlook on life has become more positive. RR

[My son] loved camp this summer! I feel it really helped him in his growth in caring for others. His counselor was wonderful. BJ

Now that I am home I realize the things I missed such as T.V. and Junk Food are not very important at all. What is more important is the loving atmosphere at camp and all the sweet people around me. LB

[My daughter’s] experience at Kahdalea has profoundly effected her. She has grown from the friendships she developed. She has continued to examine her values and direction and is working to strengthen her faith in God. SB

We look forward to many wonderful camp experiences with you and your great staff. I cannot tell you how grateful I am to know he is safe, happy and having a great time with Christian loving people. J&BC

These camps had, and continue to have, a lasting impact on me. Aside from the cliffs, the rocks, the lengthy hikes into the forests, the whitewater, and the awesomeness of God’s creation, there were a couple of men who really influenced me and "set the example." AC