Winter Camps – an Investment in the lives of Children and Parents
Parent-Child Winter Camps – A Strategic Focus
Ends of The Earth Cycling has been generous in providing Missio Link International Foundation a grant for ski equipment at Alpinis. Thank you!! The location of Alpinis Leadership Center, right next to the ski slopes, has made it possible to develop Alpinis, an adventure with purpose — family-focused camps designed to foster reconnection, rediscovery, and recharging, away from the busyness of daily life. Our vision is to facilitate the formation of Christian values and character, equipping the younger generation in Romania through gospel-centered camp and outdoor programs, leadership training, conferences, and retreats. Alpinis is more than a building — it is a place that cultivates an environment where people are encouraged, equipped, and encounter God. Whether winter or summer, we see how time spent together – away from the busyness of daily life – creates space for reconnection, rediscovery, and recharging.
In this year’s winter camp, parents were not merely spectators of their children’s experiences – they were active participants. Many reconnected with skiing themselves, alongside their kids, cheering them on through every stage. For some, it was even a first: the first time on skis, sharing the same excitement and joy as their children.
The Alpiniș Cup – Celebrating Growth and Perseverance
A highlight of the ski camp was the Alpiniș Cup – a friendly competition on levels of expertise. It was more than just a race: it was a celebration of courage and progress. The pre-race jitters, the cheers from the sidelines, and the applause at the finish line created unforgettable memories – for both kids and their parents. The purpose of the competition was to raise money for a ping-pong table for the girls at Deborah House.
Skiing – A Context for Growth and Witness
For us, skiing is more than a sport. On the slopes, we learn essential life lessons: how to get back up after falling, how to be patient with ourselves, how to celebrate the success of others. Each day becomes an opportunity to reflect, to have meaningful conversations, and to live out Christian values in a natural and relational way.
The Equipment – a Valuable Resource for Families
With the support received from Ends of the Earth Cycling, we were able to equip our ALC location with ski gear specifically for the children and families who attend our camps. Access to this equipment has removed one of the major financial and logistical barriers for many families – allowing more children to participate, including those from less privileged backgrounds.
Yet beyond the practical value, this gear has become a tool through which we build something far more meaningful: relationships. Relationships between children and parents, between participants and leaders, and ultimately, between people and God.
Continuity Across Seasons – A Growing Community
Our connection with families doesn’t melt away with the snow. Last summer, during the “Our Story” camp, we focused on emotional and relational growth, guided by a Christian psychotherapist. This continuity – across seasons, themes, and generations – is building a strong, healthy community, anchored in clear values while also meeting an important need: parenting models and the gospel.
Encouraging Feedback That Fuels Our Mission
,,The Alpinis ski camp was the perfect setting for our family to become friends with skiing.
The stunning scenery, the convenient location of the lodge, and all the facilities for gearing up made the whole ski prep process smooth—even for a family with three kids.
We had heard that skiing with kids can be a challenge, but for us, the camp’s organization and logistics made it anything but difficult. Having access to equipment, your hands-on support on the slopes, and the friendly, well-matched instructors for the kids made the whole learning process easy and very enjoyable for them.’’– Ileana
,,Our girl, Maia, who is usually very cautious and not particularly athletic, left absolutely thrilled with how well she did on the slopes, and so did we. The fact that we had equipment available at the lodge was very practical and extremely helpful.’’ – Simona
This is just one of many heartfelt testimonials we’ve received from camp participants. With every camp, we’re reminded how a simple sport can become fertile ground for character development, strengthening family bonds, and authentically living out our faith.
Thank You, Ends of the Earth Cycling!
We are deeply thankful for your partnership and support. Your investment has been – and continues to be – an investment in people’s lives. Thank you for choosing to journey with us to the ends of the earth… and into the hearts of the children and families climbing together toward the heights of growth and faith.
