Carlos Medley
Rachel Taylor
Carlos Medley
Carlos Medley
Rachel Taylor
Carlos Medley
Carlos Medley
Rachel Taylor
When Patmos Chapel Church in Apopka, Fla., launched the 2026 “Kids at the Well Summer Camp,” more than 160 campers registered for the seven-week program from June 8 to July 24, 2026. “The enormous influx of students took the staff by surprise,” said Rachel Taylor, camp director, who also serves as the church’s children’s ministries pastor. “We had to add staff, add compacity, and start a wait list. Our registration doubled last year’s total,” said Taylor.
Hosted at Patmos Church’s Well Activity Center, the event attracted campers from 17 cities and towns around central Florida. Three children came all the way from Coral Springs (more than 200 miles south of Apopka); one came from the Ocala area (about 80 miles north).
Estimates show that only 60% of the children came from Seventh-day Adventist homes, and 40% came from families who are not Adventist. “This year our camp truly became an outreach project. We really made a breakthrough in reaching kids in our community, and making an impact,” said Taylor.
Cutting Edge Curriculum
Staffed with certified teachers, the seven-week camp targeted campers aged 4-14, and featured an expanded curriculum, including leadership training, entrepreneurship, graphic design, computer programming, robotics, social media readiness, and traditional math and science. “We want to help students prepare their websites and improve their social media presence,” reiterated Taylor. “These are skills our kids will need later in life as they pursue their education and start their professional life.”
Students also built and programmed robots, worked with Lego-based engineering activities, and participated in hands-on technology learning designed to prepare them for a rapidly evolving digital world.
The emphasis in technology continues a direction the camp began exploring in previous years. In 2025, the camp introduced students to Ozobots — small programmable robots that help teach coding, sequencing, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills through interactive play. The program was designed to make technology approachable for younger students, while blending education with creativity and teamwork.
Now, with a dedicated computer lab and expanded curriculum, organizers say the camp is taking another major step forward. To support this initiative, the camp launched a first-rate computer lab, with 17 computers provided by AdventHealth. “If the need arises, we can access more computers,” said Taylor.
Getting Physical
But, technology is only part of the experience. Taylor said physical activity remains a central component of the camp’s philosophy, with each week featuring a highlighted sport such as badminton, volleyball, basketball, or soccer. “Physical activity is important for the campers,” said Taylor. “It’s one factor in building good health.”
Staff members from AdventHealth are also expected to speak with students throughout the summer about nutrition, wellness, and healthy lifestyle habits.
Alongside academics and athletics, the camp offers field trips, creative arts activities, Ninja Warrior-style games, and faith-centered programming designed to create a safe and positive environment for children during the summer months. “Every week [has activities] designed to keep campers active, engaged, and excited to show up each day,” said Taylor.
Mealtime
Another popular feature of the camp is the gourmet lunches the campers receive every day. Chef Arturo Bello, perhaps one of the most popular staffers, makes sure that the meals are healthy and nutritious. With campers coming from all parts of central Florida, the mealtime offers a wonderful opportunity for the campers to meet new friends.
Starting in 2024, the Kids at the Well Summer Camp was born out of a desire to provide a biblically-based educational experience for children. A group of educators envisioned a learning experience that included athletics, Bible, and STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) courses. Registration fees provide financial support, along with a grant and donations from church members.
These resources help provide scholarships for families that can’t afford the fees. Along with registration fees, several organizations, such as AdventHealth and Orange County Public Schools, provide a wide variety of supplies and equipment for the camp.
“Parents can feel confident knowing their children are spending the summer in a safe, positive, Christian environment, where they are cared for by nurturing leaders. Our goal is to give children an unforgettable summer packed with joy, a stronger faith in God, and memories they will carry with them for years to come,” said Taylor.
Southeastern | August 2026
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