August Newsletter

The Lord appeared to him from far away. I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have continued my faithfulness to you.

Jeremiah 31:3

By Andrea Borvold

This is an amazing write up about our Kicking Bear Camps in a public newspaper!

It was a beautiful, sunny day in the northwest Minnesota as families gathered in Karlstad for the first-ever Kicking Bear Adventure Day. Hosted by Darvis and Tami Russell on their property, the event welcomed nearly 100 kids and parents for a full day of fun, faith, and outdoor adventure. The Russells partnered with Newfolden Evangelical Free Church (NEFC), the Kicking Bear Foundation, and a dedicated group of local volunteers to bring the free event to life.

Children had the chance to try a variety of hands-on activities, including archery, slingshots, BB guns, tomahawk throwing, fishing, an obstacle course, crafts, and Hayrides. For those eager to compete, there were foot races, wheelbarrow races, tug-of-war and even a marshmallow fight.

Though a tornado warning was issued in Kittson County that afternoon, organizers believe divine protection played a part, “Just as God parted the Red Sea,” said Tami Russell, “He split the storm that was on track to hit the event-it went north and south instead.”

The day ended with a powerful message from Ray Howell, Founding Servant of Kicking Bear Foundation. “I witnessed a community come together to make a positive impact on kids’ lives,” Howell shared. “Under the leadership of Tami and Darvis Russell, the Karlstad volunteer team was amazing!”

Howell spoke about God’s deep love for each child and adult in attendance, encouraging them with the reminder that God has a plan and a purpose for every life. The gospel was shared, prayers were offered, Bibles were handed out, and hearts were touched.

Kicking Bear is a national ministry that hosts Adventure Camps across the United States aiming to connect kids with the outdoors while sharing the hope and love of Christ. To learn more about their mission or to make a donation, visit www.kickingbear.org.

Organizers plan to bring the event back to Karlstad next year and will post updates on the NEFC Facebook page as plans unfold.

Mathew’s website! https://mathewsinc.com/

Also, check out Mission Archery at

https://missionarchery.com/

2025 KICKING BEAR CALENDAR GIVEAWAY

We have given away even more great prizes this month for the 2025 Kicking Bear Giveaway. Purchase your ticket/calendar now and have your number entered into July’s monthly drawing. The main drawing will be held on Friday, October 10th, live on our Kicking Bear YouTube channel. Our 50/50 Raffle is already over $6,600!! Our #1 seller is the Platinum Package ($125) that gets you into all drawings throughout the entire 2025 year. 100% of proceeds will go directly to the Kicking Bear Ministries and help us continue our mission. For more information or to purchase tickets please CLICK HERE (www.kickingbear.org).

Check out updates on our next events and catch pictures, videos and highlights of our past mission work on our social media platforms and website!!

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