Kicking Bear has been serving kids for the past three decades! As we plan for the future, we know Kicking Bear is able to impact many more generations through our Adventure Camps, One-on-One Mentorship programs, and Youth Hunts.
Thoughts from Ray
“God called me to start Kicking Bear to let every child know that no matter what they are going through, He has a plan for their life.
That was 27 years ago, and I can hardly believe how quickly the time has passed. Since then, thousands of kids, families, and communities have been impacted through Adventure Camps, one-on-one mentorship, and countless youth hunts. Most importantly, so many people have begun a relationship with Jesus Christ.
Even though I still feel 15 years old on the inside, I know I’m not getting any younger. My desire is for Kicking Bear to continue changing lives long after I’m gone. Over the next several years, our leadership team and I will be intentionally training, equipping, and passing our bows and arrows to the next generation of leaders so that Kicking Bear can impact generations to come.
God has provided Kicking Bear with an incredible servant leader in Krysta Howell. She is ready, passionate, and equipped to help lead this ministry into the future. For the past three years, she has been learning the day-to-day operations of Kicking Bear and has stepped into the vital role of Executive Director.
Krysta was first introduced to Kicking Bear ten years ago when her world had fallen apart. During a difficult season, Kicking Bear became a place where she and her children could both serve and be served. The story of how God brought her into this ministry is nothing short of remarkable. She brings a unique combination of education, leadership experience, and a deep passion for sharing God’s love.
Krysta holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting and Finance and has earned certificates in Servant Leadership from Dallas Theological Seminary and Nonprofit Leadership from Viterbo University. She has more than 25 years of ministry experience, has led teams in both ministry and professional settings, and has a heart devoted to helping others experience the love of Christ and the truth of God’s Word.
God has also surrounded Kicking Bear with a strong Board of Directors and leadership team who are committed to ensuring this ministry remains mission-focused, sustainable, and positioned for growth. These men and women are dedicated to helping Kicking Bear continue making a difference in the lives of children and families across the United States.
This ministry has never been about me, Ray Howell. It’s about the children whose lives can be changed for generations. It’s about the men and women who will rise up and say, “Yes, I’ll host a camp. Yes, I’ll become a Champion. Yes, I’ll serve as a leader. Yes, I’ll invest in a child’s life through mentorship.” Most of all, it’s about serving our Lord and Savior and sharing His love with a world that desperately needs Him.
So, I invite you to join me in ensuring that Kicking Bear continues to move forward for generations to come. Together, we can equip the next generation of leaders, reach more children, strengthen more communities, and continue sharing the hope of Jesus Christ across America.”
Blessings,
Ray Howell
Founding Servant
Kicking Bear Foundation
Our Impact
Youth Impacted Annual
Camps Hosted Annually
Years Serving
Partner Organizations
By God’s grace and through faithful partners, thousands of youth have encountered Christ through Kicking Bear.
Our Vision
Our vision for the next generation of Kicking Bear is to multiply this impact by equipping new leaders, expanding our nationwide presence, and creating sustainable systems that empower every local chapter to thrive
Our Mission remains the same
To share the love of Jesus Christ through outdoor adventures, mentorship, and relationship-building with youth across the nation.
Join the Mission
You can help expand Kicking Bear’s reach to impact more youth and families across the country.