A Week That Moves Mountains: HFO’s Faith-Fueled Experience at Kids Across America Camp
There’s something incredibly powerful about watching someone step into a space where they’re not only seen but seen and loved as a child of God. That’s exactly what happens every summer when Hope for Opelousas takes students and staff to Kids Across America (KAA), a one-of-a-kind Christian sports camp nestled in Missouri’s vast Ozark Mountains.
For many of our kids, this trip marks the first time they’ve ever left Louisiana or Opelousas. Although KAA is a drastic change of scenery, it’s the energy, faith, and sense of purpose that leave a lifelong mark on everyone who steps onto the campgrounds.
“It’s a concentrated amount of love being poured into the kids,” shared Kristina Anderson, HFO’s Administrative Director. “You can feel the energy, the scriptures, the encouragement - it’s overwhelming in all the best ways.”
And quite literally, she means that. The moment the sun shows its face, campers wake up to gospel music playing through the intercom system to set the tone for a day filled with competitions, dancing, team activities, and faith-centered connection. Whether they go tubing on the lake, ziplining through the treetops, or studying scripture with cabinmates, every moment at KAA is infused with excitement and intention. More than fun, it’s formation.
A Camp that Moves The Whole Person
Alyssa Daggs, an HFO student, camper, and now KAA counselor, described it as “a hype spot” with more energy and heart than anywhere else she has been. “It’s a safe place. A fun place. A God-centered place where the love of Jesus is felt wherever you walk.”
At KAA, campers don’t just get told about leadership - they live it. Through daily responsibilities like cabin clean-up, Bible study, and group challenges, students learn the true meaning of teamwork, accountability, and what it looks like to be a part of a community united in one purpose wrapped in God’s unconditional love.
It’s also a service launching pad. Alyssa is one of several HFO students who, after attending camp, felt called to return as staff. “It was really the people at camp who made me want to come back and be there to help campers experience what I experienced,” she says. Working behind the scenes gave her a deeper understanding of ministry, mentorship, and the impact that intentional service can have on others.
More Than a Week - It’s a Ripple
Hope for Opelousas has been taking students and staff to KAA for over 14 years, and it continues to be one of the most anticipated experiences of the summer for everyone. “There’s already so much heart in Opelousas, but KAA brings a kind of focused, faith-filled energy that’s hard to replicate,” Kristina shared. “It surrounds the kids with an endless supply of excitement, love, and wholesome fun that sets them on track for a great summer and even better school year. It honestly fuels me for the rest of the year.”
The ripple doesn’t stop there. The lessons, energy, and friendships all come back with the kids and find their way into HFO’s after-school tutoring, Adventure Crew program, enrichment programs, and even the homes of our families. “Their joy and discipline are impossible to miss - they’re truly infectious,” Kristina says.
We’re grateful for the community that surrounds our HFO family with the love, faith, and encouragement they experience at KAA. This camp is more than a week's getaway - it’s a safe space for growth to take root and transformations to begin. The ripple effects are real, and we’re blessed to witness them unfold year after year.
To learn more about these epic journeys, visit https://www.hopeforopelousas.org/adventure.