Another unforgettable year of Camp Vohokase is in the books! For nine incredible days, young men from across the country challenged themselves, built lifelong friendships, served others, and continued their journey toward becoming Responsible, Ethical, Accountable Leaders (R.E.A.L.). None of this would be possible without the unwavering support of our volunteers, partners, donors, and families who make this life-changing experience possible.
Wednesday: Kicking Off with Brotherhood
Camp officially kicked off with our upperclassmen—juniors, seniors, and counselors—coming together for an evening of fun at Sure Shot. Friendly competition filled the air as campers challenged one another in pool, ping pong, and arcade games, creating the perfect opportunity for returning campers to reconnect while welcoming our alumni counselors, Jalen Granberry of Hammond, Indiana, and Anton Scurry Jr. of New Bedford, Massachusetts, back into the camp experience. The group then headed to Buffalo Wild Wings for a fundraiser benefiting the Light Foundation. While the food and service were excellent, the highlight of the evening was undoubtedly watching several campers bravely take on the restaurant’s famous Blazin’ wings challenge. Their reactions had everyone laughing and created memories that will be talked about long after camp ends, setting the tone for an unforgettable week ahead.
Thursday: Welcome to Camp
Thursday marked the arrival of our freshmen and sophomores, and from the moment they stepped off the bus, camp was in full swing. The day was filled with classic Camp Vohokase traditions, including the Name Game, Egg Toss, and an intense dodgeball tournament that ended with the Flames and Striking Fast battling to a hard-fought tie. As evening approached, our upperclassmen led the underclassmen on a walk to the pond, creating opportunities to build trust, friendships, and brotherhood. After a great dinner together, Light Foundation founder Matt Light welcomed everyone with the first fireside chat of the week, setting the stage for the days ahead.
Friday: Building Skills That Last
Friday was all about hard work and personal growth. Campers completed this year’s camp service project by helping build chairs that will be used around the campfire for years to come. They also participated in engaging financial literacy and life skills sessions led by Joey and our incredible partners at Twelve Points Academy, learning valuable lessons that extend well beyond camp. The evening brought more time at the pond, another great meal, and an inspiring fireside chat led by Troy, encouraging campers to continue leading with character and purpose.
Saturday: Serving the Community 
Giving back has always been a cornerstone of Camp Vohokase. Saturday morning, campers partnered with Hooked on Fishing to serve families throughout the Greenville community. Whether baiting hooks, helping young anglers reel in fish, or simply encouraging others, our campers demonstrated what servant leadership looks like. Later, they returned to Twelve Points Academy for an interactive case study that challenged them to apply the financial lessons they had learned. Campers also worked alongside Bill Light to build char cloth boxes before finishing the day with one of the week’s most anticipated competitions—a pizza-making showdown to earn another team flame. The evening concluded with an outstanding fireside chat led by junior counselor Anton.
Sunday: Faith, Adventure, and Inspiration
Sunday began with an uplifting service led by Matt Light’s cousin, Micah, who shared an encouraging message that resonated with campers and staff alike. The rest of the day was packed with adventure as campers enjoyed paintball and dirt biking before gathering for a special fireside presentation from retired U.S. Army Master Sergeant Kevin Holland. His stories of leadership, resilience, and service left a lasting impression on everyone in attendance.
Monday: Learning Beyond the Classroom 
Education and service took center stage on Monday. Campers visited Eldora Speedway for their first career exploration tour, gaining insight into the many careers that keep one of America’s most iconic racing venues operating. After returning to camp, they completed another meaningful community service project before ending the evening with a powerful fireside discussion led by Army medic and former 75th Ranger Regiment member Zach Conaway, whose experiences emphasized courage, teamwork, and accountability.
Tuesday into Wednesday: The Overnight Leadership Challenge
Tuesday focused on preparation for one of Camp Vohokase’s signature traditions—the 12-Hour Overnight Leadership Challenge. Led by our former military cadre and counselors, campers faced a series of demanding physical and mental challenges throughout the night. Every obstacle requires communication, trust, integrity, perseverance, and accountability. Time after time, these young men rose to the occasion, proving not only their resilience but also their commitment to supporting one another. After completing the challenge Wednesday morning, everyone earned a well-deserved opportunity to rest and enjoy some Maid Rites before heading to Poeppelman Materials & Pepcon Concrete for the final career tour of the week. Ben Poeppelman provided campers with valuable insight into careers within the construction and concrete industries. That evening, our senior class led one final fireside chat before everyone turned in early to prepare for graduation.
Thursday: Celebrating a Remarkable Journey
The final full day of camp was packed with excitement and celebration. Campers spent more time riding dirt bikes around the track before visiting Foundation friend Howie’s home for a safe and memorable shooting experience with AR-style rifles under close supervision. As the evening arrived, everyone gathered for the Camp Vohokase Graduation Ceremony. Families, staff, and supporters celebrated another successful year with a delicious rib dinner, heartfelt speeches, recognition of camper’s accomplishments, and the ringing of the bell tower—a cherished Camp Vohokase tradition symbolizing growth, perseverance, and the completion of another incredible journey. The celebration ended with delicious cake, a movie under the stars, and one final night together before campers departed for home the following morning.
Looking Back 
Camp Vohokase is much more than nine days in the woods—it is a place where young men discover their potential, strengthen their character, serve others, and form lifelong bonds built on trust, accountability, and shared experiences. As Camp Vohokase 2026 comes to a close, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to every volunteer, counselor, community partner, guest speaker, donor, family member, and supporter who invested their time, talents, and resources to make this experience possible. A special thank-you goes to Susie Light, Marilyn Light, and Mimi Jakubczyk for preparing food in-house and keeping campers and staff fueled with delicious meals, amazing snacks, and delightful desserts throughout the week. Your generosity, dedication, and belief in our mission continue to create life-changing opportunities that help shape the next generation of leaders. We are incredibly grateful for your support and are already looking forward to all that Camp Vohokase 2027 has in store.
