SIDEWAYS SUNLIGHT
Lighting the Way: Sideways Sunlight Ministry's Impact
From six volunteers to thirty in four years, Sideways Sunlight Ministry (SSM) delivers spiritual and emotional support to approximately 60 at-risk youth in Athens ages 5-18.
Sideways Sunlight has partnered with Camp Grace to increase and expand the spiritual guidance and exposure the kids receive.
Program Reach
Camp Grace Impact:
57 youth attended summer camp
33 participants in November recharge weekend
33 scheduled for January recharge weekend
Monthly craft nights engaging mothers in supportive community
Building Community
Current initiatives that extend beyond the kids to the mothers/family:
Monthly craft nights connecting mothers
6 new participants in December
Creating safe space for support conversations
Real Impact, Real Lives
Ryan’s Story
Ryan, a middle school student who tragically lost his brother to gun violence, spent years wrestling with grief and questioning why God would allow such a heartbreaking loss. His journey toward healing began at Camp Grace, where, for the first time, he experienced a sense of peace and spiritual connection. Surrounded by support and encouragement, Ryan was able to open his heart and process his pain. In a powerful moment of clarity, he shared, “I finally feel like God is real,” marking a turning point in his journey of faith and healing.
