Camp Connection Fosters Healing, Hope, and Connection for Children and Families Impacted by Foster Care and Adoption

Southern Christian Services for Children and Youth, Inc. (SCSCY) proudly hosted Camp Connection, a weekend retreat designed to create a safe, nurturing, and fun environment where children and families impacted by foster care and adoption experience connection, healing, and hope.

Guided by the principles of Trust-Based Relational Intervention® (TBRI), Camp Connection focuses on strengthening relationships, empowering caregivers, and equipping children with emotional and social tools to thrive. Through intentional interaction, shared activities, and moments of reflection, families experience the power of trust and belonging.

                “Camp Connection reflects the heart of who we are at Southern Christian Services,” said Jamie Himes, President and CEO. “We believe every child deserves to feel seen, safe, and valued - and this camp is one of the ways we help make that possible. It’s about creating space for healing and joy while strengthening the bonds that help families flourish.”

Throughout the weekend, campers and their families participated in a variety of activities designed to build connection and resilience, including the Crash & Bump regulation exercise, a family canvas art project, games, arts and crafts, scrapbooking, swimming, ropes course, and more. Each activity was intentionally designed to help children express themselves, learn self-regulation, and experience joy through teamwork and creativity.

                “Every activity at Camp Connection has a purpose,” shared Kelsey Neeley, Camp Director. “Whether it’s a playful game or a quiet art project, we aim to foster trust, build connection, and strengthen the sense of community for families navigating the unique challenges of foster care and adoption.”

Families left the weekend renewed, equipped with practical tools rooted in TBRI principles, and connected to a supportive network of peers, volunteers, and community resources.

                One foster parent reflected, “Camp Connection isn’t just a weekend - it’s a reminder that healing happens through relationship, and that God’s love shows up in the simple moments of laughter, trust, and connection.”

                A Buddy volunteer added, “It was incredible to see the transformation in just a few days. These kids reminded us all what resilience and hope truly look like.”

Camp Connection’s Goals Include:

                1.           Cultivating Connection – Building trust-based relationships through shared experiences and intentional interaction.

                2.           Promoting Healing – Supporting felt-safety, empowerment, and resilience for children who have experienced trauma.

                3.           Equipping Families – Offering caregivers TBRI-informed tools and strategies.

                4.           Empowering Children – Encouraging voice, choice, and skill-building through fun, structured activities.

                5.           Strengthening Community – Creating a network of ongoing support for families beyond camp.

                6.           Reflecting Christ’s Love – Demonstrating compassion, grace, and unconditional acceptance for every participant.

A special thank you to Hardy & Associates Architect PLLC, Biloxi Regional Medical Board and Mississippi Department of Child Protection Services for being a sponsor. As well as our volunteers from Baptist Children's Village, Hope Village, Choices, CASA of South Mississippi, Harrison County Youth Court, and Mississippi Department of Child Protection Services.

Camp Connection continues to be a cornerstone of SCSCY’s mission to strengthen families and provide transformative experiences for Mississippi’s most vulnerable youth.