Wellington friends support junior youth camp
The Regional Bahá’í Council of the North Island has shared the article below, highlighting the loving generosity that flowed through the Wellington cluster in support of a recent junior youth camp in Paraparaumu. Faced with a camp whose costs far exceeded the annual cluster budget, the friends responded with unity, clarity of purpose, and sacrificial giving.
The Wellington Cluster rises to the occasion
A beautiful example of the spirit of collaboration and sacrificial giving has emerged in the Wellington cluster as friends rallied to support the upcoming junior youth camp. The cost of the camp was nearly four times greater than the annual cluster budget—yet, through unity of vision and action, the friends rose magnificently to meet the need.
A call went out through the Local Spiritual Assemblies and cluster coordinators, inviting the community to sponsor junior youth to attend the camp. Being specific about the needs—whether funding for meals, transport, or sponsorships—the appeal became more tangible and heartfelt. Within just a few weeks, the entire cost of the camp was covered, and contributions even exceeded the target. Truly, the means are present within the community; it is often a matter of tapping into them with clarity of purpose and trust in the power of spiritual principles.
The Wellington Cluster Junior Youth Camp, took place on 19 September, brought together 42 junior youth from across the Lower North Island, accompanied by 18 animators—many of whom were not animating just six months ago. The rapid growth of this vibrant movement among young people is a source of great joy and inspiration. In the lead up to the camp, friends were encouraged to donate via an online pledge form perhaps by covering the cost of a meal or a day of camp—helping to create a direct sense of connection between their acts of service and the uplifting experiences unfolding at the camp.
The treasurer of the Wellington Local Spiritual Assembly who is charged with looking after the flow of funds in the cluster shared “that a call was made for funds to cover the cost of the junior youth camp and individuals, friends serving in nuclei, Assemblies, all donated money and displayed generosity”; as a result there was no need to draw on the regional or national fund.
The generosity, unity, and enthusiasm demonstrated in this effort are a shining example of what can be achieved when hearts are moved by love for the Cause and by the desire to nurture the next generation of builders of unity.
