LifeCampUSA: Uncommon Grit Foundation Grantee Spotlight
The relationship between a father and son is special. As boys grow into men, this relationship illuminates the path into adulthood. Sons look to their fathers as models for how to go about each day and all the triumphs and challenges life inevitably presents.
Unfortunately, many fathers have lost their lives while serving in the United States military and law enforcement, leaving their sons to navigate life without them. That’s where LifeCampUSA comes in.
LifeCampUSA began with a dream of creating a program for sons of fallen heroes. In this program, 10 young men spend one week adventuring in the remote outdoors, building community with one another, and bonding over their shared loss. Throughout the week, they receive guidance from 10 hand-selected mentors—a team of Christian men from different vocations, including military and law enforcement. The young men spend time learning about Bible-based lessons, team building, and survival skills while experiencing mentorship, adventure activities, and campfires.
Upon returning home from LifeCampUSA, participants are equipped with experiential learning outcomes, long-lasting relationships, and a resilient mindset. This life-changing mentorship continues for 12 months through LifeCareUSA, where LifeCampers are regularly contacted and continually encouraged.
The impact of this experience is powerful. After a law enforcement accident took his father’s life, a young man named Wyatt felt increasingly isolated from his peers and community. After attending LifeCamp, his perspective shifted.
“I am no longer ashamed of my journey. I’m proud to be me. I don’t feel so alone. Meeting more kids like me was helpful," Wyatt shared.
No one will ever fill their father's shoes, but sons benefit from the relationships they build while on their healing journey. LifeCampUSA helps to make this possible.
“A father’s legacy inevitably shapes the life of their son. The tragic loss through combat or PTSD and suicide is no different and often leads a son to that same tragedy," said Daniel Craig, director of LifeCareUSA at LifeCampUSA. "When men step up to mentor, these sons witness a different legacy that leads to life and honor as a man in today’s world.”
Families are selected on a first-come, first-served basis via an online application at LifeCampUSA.org. The organization encourages family members and loved ones of any young man aged 11-14 who has lost their father as a result of their military or first responder service (including PTSD and suicide).
To learn more about LifeCampUSA, visit lifecampusa.org.