Seeds of Purpose Camp - July 2025
- Jared Harbison
- Aug 15
- 2 min read
Dear Friends and Supporters,
This summer, The Overflow hosted our Seeds of Purpose Camp, a week-long experience designed to help middle school boys discover their identity, develop life skills, and grow in faith. Your generosity made this possible — and the seeds planted are already beginning to sprout in their lives!
From the first day, the boys learned that just like seeds need good soil to grow, our hearts and minds need truth, discipline, and encouragement to flourish. Guided by the themes Inward (Identity & Character), Outward (Working Together & Gratitude), and Upward (Faith & Scripture), each day offered hands-on experiences that tied directly to STEM and faith-building lessons.
What They Learned
Rooted in Identity
Through the Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13) and the DISC personality tool, the boys discovered how God uniquely designed them — and how understanding themselves helps them make wise choices, work better with others, and live out their purpose with confidence.
The Power of Teamwork
Visits to farms — including a bee farm, chicken farm, goat dairy, and berry fields— taught the boys how cooperation, shared responsibility, and hard work keep a community thriving. They learned from nature that small contributions, when multiplied, can make a big difference.
Persistence & Skillfulness
Proverbs 22:29 reminded campers that skill and dedication open doors. In STEM workshops, they designed seed starters and grow boxes, learning that growth takes patience, planning, and consistent care.
Honoring Creation & Gratitude
From tending animals to harvesting berries, the boys saw firsthand the beauty and order in God’s creation. They learned that caring for the earth is both a privilege and a responsibility.
Building on a Strong Foundation
Through Matthew 7:24-25, the boys discussed how to make choices that last — building their lives on the “rock” of faith and good values so they can withstand life’s storms.
The week wrapped up exploring Linville Caverns, riding the Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster in Banner Elk, and even learning to make pizza!!
Because of you, these young men now carry tools to know themselves, work together, and grow in faith. The seeds planted at camp will bear fruit for years to come — in their families, schools, and communities.
We are already planning workshops and events this fall. Your continued support is needed and greatly appreciated!
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the following community champions who helped make summer camp possible.
Program Sponsors
Perry’s Berry’s – For blueberry picking and education.
FunFrolic Farm – For fun with goats and learning about cheese making.
Sweet Betsy Bee Farm – For teaching the importance of pollinators.
Browning Family Farm – For helping our kids dig into farm life.
Food Lion – For supporting food needs.
Talley Bryan Foundation – For believing in our mission and investing in our youth.
River of Life Church – Van Ministry – For helping us get where we needed to go, safely and reliably.
Friends, Family, and Volunteers - For ensuring the camp was a great success and free of charge for the program participants!
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you to everyone who partnered together to make this possible!
Jared & The Overflow Board
