Dear Partner,
This months "Where Are They Now" letter goes by twelve years and takes us to Colorado, and ultimately Kenya, Africa. Exciting to see the work of HYC going beyond just a summer. Thank you Max Tustin for sharing your heart for ministry with us and giving us a chance to help you along the way. I hope you are encouraged as you read this letter with the impact your prayers and finances are making.
Dear Friends,
Hello! My name is Max Tustin, I served on staff during the summers of 2012 and 2013. I LOVED my time at Hiawatha. As a camper, it was at Hiawatha that the Lord really got a hold of my heart, convicting me to follow Him not just half-heartedly, but with my whole self. I have so many fond memories of camp, from the infamous blob, to Hoppy's unforgettable donuts, to the (always slightly terrifying) counselor hunt.
During my time at Hiawatha, I worked in the kitchen, on maintenance, and as a counselor. These experiences played a huge role in my desire to create safe space for youth, even leading me to become a classroom teacher! I have taught music in western Colorado for the last 6 years and have absolutely loved it. As an encouragement for all current staff, I just want to say thank you for all the sacrifices you have made to make camp happen, and take heart in knowing that no matter your role, you are making a HUGE Kingdom-impact through this ministry.
About two years ago, my wife (who is also a teacher and summer camp enthusiast) and I felt the Lord calling us to teach overseas. In our search, we came across an amazing boarding school in Kenya called "Rift Valley Academy" (or RVA). RVA exists to enable missionary families to bring the gospel to the most unreached regions of Africa by providing their children with a safe, nurturing environment where they can learn and grow. Getting to see the school first hand, we instantly thought of our experiences at summer camp, and the rich opportunities that come from life-on-life discipleship (you can find out more about RVA here). We will be moving to Kenya in July of this year to serve as teachers at RVA. If you have any questions or interest in partnering with us through prayer or monthly giving, please feel free to reach out to us at mctustin21@gmail.com, or you can donate directly here.
Thank you for all you have done to make Hiawatha possible. I am so thankful for the impact of this camp and the ways the Lord has used it to so richly bless my life. It is my prayer that this blessing will continue on to bless many more in our coming ministry at RVA.
Sincerely,
Max Tustin