Volunteers Urgently Needed for Storm Cleanup at Camp Barnabas in Barry County

BARRY COUNTY, Mo. – Summer camp for people with special needs and especially in special need of it at the moment has a GINORMOUS mess to clean up after the weather this week put it in the ground. Purdy, Missouri, is where Camp Barnabas ended up in its foundation after the storm system moved through Tuesday evening in its aftermath.

The storm’s destruction of the camps is immense. Dozens of trees were brought down, some even striking cabins and other structures. Leaves and branches blanketed the grounds, and while cleanup crews have already been dispatched, how much harm is going to be inflicted will take an army of workers. There was no loss of life, even though the camp doesn’t have much time to waste because there are already people beginning to arrive as early as next month.

Camp. Barn. abas has brought joy, growth, and home. with generation after generation of special needs and chronically ill campers and families. Dozens of families and campers roll into the campground every summer only to be met with experiences most simply can’t find elsewhere. Else. With this mission of service and community so ingrained in its very existence, it’s little wonder that the camp has come to depend on the public’s support.

Camp directors further elaborate that they require short-notice volunteers to clean up after a storm and would greatly appreciate some notice from any volunteer who can donate an hour or two, or a group of any kind, such as a church group, business, or civic club. Volunteer-staffed personnel are especially encouraged to volunteer on chainsawing trees down, fixing houses, and driving heavy equipment, but somehow, in practice, there does indeed exist some material a non-trained volunteer can do. Volunteers can help with everything from raking and trash-pulling out to helping with cabin damage assessment. Volunteer hours can help the camp in its on-time opening and safely so.

Volunteer work is being led by Facilities Director Cody Porter. Porter was quick to note, though, all that other devastation caused by the storm aside, there’s still the heart of the camp remaining and with a little help, Camp Barnabas can be opened to its campers in weeks, not months. “It’s a monster task, but with the hand and heart of our community, we know that we’ll be able to ride this one out,” Porter said.

If you’re able to help, you’re encouraged to reach out directly to Cody Porter. He can be contacted via email at [email protected] or by phone at 417-499-7687. Whether you’re interested in helping for a day, a weekend, or regularly, all efforts are appreciated.

It is a great chance for service clubs, high school clubs, youth groups, and young adults to get some volunteer hours or even just a great thing to do for someone.

Local businesses that own equipment or individuals that have volunteer hours to share that they could contribute would be great. Any type of help people can provide will be welcomed at the camp. They navigate on chainsaws and work gloves, but lend a hand with meal planning and serve as an emotional support group to aid in coordinating volunteers. The pressure is building. Camper arrivals over weeks made procrastination impossible. Staff crossed their fingers but know what needs to occur realistically. Salvage cabin repair, safely removing dead trees, brush clearing on main trails, and assembling sites are among the different work that must be done prior to reopening for business safely at camp.

Camp Barnabas never was a camp that was short on grit and kindness. Now they’re counting on the people to pay that back and be there when it counts. When that type of moment happens, even the small acts of kindness limb pulling, porch sweeping, or just driving by to offer encouragement are what get us through.

So if you’re in or around Barry County and are looking for a way to support a good cause, consider joining the cleanup crew at Camp Barnabas. It’s more than just cleaning up after a storm – it’s helping rebuild a place where joy, hope, and courage thrive. With your help, this summer’s campers can still look forward to an unforgettable experience.

Want to get dirty and be an adventurer? Wear the gloves, bring friends, and become part of something great. Camp Barnabas awaits open arms and plenty to do.