Compassion DAY Camp

Kids Beat the Desert Heat with a “Cool” Twist at Compassion Day Camp
In true Arizona style, summer camp is getting a cool twist. North Scottsdale United Methodist Church (NSUMC) will host Compassion Day Camp June 22–26, 2026, where children will explore yoga, science, gardening, and service projects—along with a daily special snow-themed surprise designed to bring extra fun to the desert heat.
This year’s camp will also include a special mission partnership with the Paiute Family Resource Center in South Scottsdale, where campers will participate in a diaper collection project supporting local families with young children—proving that even while enjoying some “cool” summer fun, kids can warm hearts through generosity.
Families can choose the camp experience that best fits their schedule:
Morning Camp | 8:30–11:30 AM | $50
A lively morning filled with yoga, mindfulness activities, nature exploration, and creative play designed to help kids build resilience and emotional awareness—plus a few refreshing surprises along the way.
Full-Day Camp | 8:30 AM–5:30 PM | $250
An expanded experience that includes all morning activities plus science experiments, physical education, gardening, meditation, and hands-on mission projects—along with extra time for the camp’s special “cool-down” activities.
Throughout the week, campers will enjoy an enriching variety of activities including yoga, self-regulation exercises, Godly Play scripture storytelling, crafts, music, science, and gardening. Programs are led by NSUMC’s dedicated volunteer team, trained Godly Play educators, and a professional yoga instructor, creating a safe, nurturing, and inspiring environment for every child—where learning, laughter, and a little frosty fun go hand in hand.
At the heart of the week is the Diaper Mission Project, where campers are encouraged to donate diapers or contribute $20 to benefit the Paiute Family Resource Center. The project teaches children that even small acts of generosity can make a powerful impact—reminding them that compassion can spread just as quickly as a summer snowstorm of kindness.
“Compassion Day Camp encourages kids to live out simple but powerful ‘I Can’ statements,” said Rev. Christopher Wurpts, Lead Pastor at NSUMC. “I can share my gifts. I can be brave. I can give my all. I can pray. I can hope. These are the kinds of truths that help children discover their inner strength and learn how to use it to bless others.”
Children will explore new skills—from science and gardening to breathing techniques, crafts, games, and yoga—while discovering that compassion and courage can grow together. And in the middle of a Scottsdale summer, they may even experience a little unexpected “snow day” magic.