Updated: Nov. 7

Representatives from Camp War Eagle in Rogers, Arkansas, will be on Washburn’s campus to table in Memorial Union and speak to students about summer positions Wednesday, Nov. 7 to Friday, Nov. 9. The camp is a Christian sports and adventure camp attended by children from under-served communities, minority and impoverished families.

“When the kids come to camp, it’s like they’re seeing Disney World for the first time,” said Assistant Program Director Kate Heidenreich. “It’s a huge joy to be able to impact the kids and their families, and they’re so thankful as well.”

Camp War Eagle operates all year through summer camp and after school programs, both of which Heidenreich works with. More than 550 staff members are hired by Camp War Eagle to make up the team that provides services for over 6,000 kids between the ages of 7 and 17. Many of the kids’ families stay involved with Camp War Eagle for multiple years.

“The reason why these families come back for 12 or more years is because of the staff,” said Heidenreich. “The staff are the most important part of camp.”

This is one of the reasons Camp War Eagle is coming to Washburn’s campus. Representatives visit multiple college campuses across Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri and Oklahoma to find students who want to spend their summer at Camp War Eagle.

“We’re looking for students who want to get paid to play,” said Heidenreich. “The students we hire love the Lord, love kids and love having fun.”

Abby Stenzel, sophomore kinesiology major, spent most of last summer as a floater at Camp War Eagle. This position included nannying for permanent staff, doing office work and serving where and when needed for campers and staff alike.

“I love the sports-related aspect of camp,” Stenzel said. “The Christian values that Camp War Eagle holds are important to me, so I really enjoyed that aspect. We had themed special events, sports competitions, crafts, music and more. There’s something for everyone.”

Camp War Eagle is a great opportunity for students to experience personal and professional growth.

“Students who spend their summers at Camp War Eagle learn people skills and team work and gain experience working with kids,” Heidenreich said. “No matter their major or desired profession, staff have a chance to develop skillsets that they will carry with them into their careers.”

Stenzel said last summer helped her step outside of her comfort zone.  

“I learned how to be more independent and got to meet so many new people, who I still keep in touch with,” Stenzel said. “I found another family in the people I met at Camp War Eagle.”

This is one aspect that Heidenreich also enjoys about Camp War Eagle.

“It’s a blast. The students we hire all come from one general region and group of states, so it’s easy for them to continue the friendships they develop over the summer,” Heidenreich said.

Stenzel encourages those who love children to apply. She shared some insight as to why students should apply for a summer position at Camp War Eagle.

“You get to show Christ’s love to kids who don’t always get experiences like this. It’s a good way to impact the next generation while doing stuff you love,” Stenzel said. 

The Camp War Eagle representatives will also be at The Peak for Washburn’s Christian Challenge at 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 8 at 1930 SW Gage Blvd. 

“We like to attend a campus ministry event to not only tell the students there more about camp, but worship together as well,” Heidenreich said. “We get to know the students a little more there and are able to connect with the ones who have an interest in spending their summer with us at Camp War Eagle.”

Heidenreich will be one of the representatives from Camp War Eagle to come to Washburn’s campus this week. They will be conducting noncommittal interviews from 9 a.m to 3 p.m Wednesday. Nov. 7 through Friday, Nov. 9. You can sign up for an interview at their table or on cwestaff.com. If you have any interest in a paid summer position or any questions about Camp War Eagle, feel free to stop by as well.

Updated information: Camp War Eagle is located in Rogers, Arkansas.