By Carlos Medley, Communications Director of Patmos Chapel Seventh-day Adventist Church
In Summary:
Enrollment at Patmos Chapel Seventh-day Adventist Church's Kids at the Well summer camp has more than doubled from last year, prompting organizers to add staff and create a waiting list. The seven-week program offers campers hands-on experiences in robotics, computer programming, entrepreneurship, graphic design, and athletics while emphasizing faith, leadership, and healthy living. Camp leaders say the goal is to equip children with practical skills, strong character, and lasting memories in a safe, Christ-centered environment.
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When Patmos Chapel Seventh-day Adventist Church, in Apopka, launched the 2026 Kids at the Well summer camp, more than 160 campers registered for the seven-week program (June 8 to July 24). The enormous influx of students took the staff by surprise, says Camp Director Rachel Taylor, who also serves as the Children’s Ministry Pastor. “We had to add staff, add capacity, and start a wait list. Our registration doubled last year’s total.”
Related: Kids at the Well Summer Camp expands technology, leadership programs with new computer lab.
Hosted at Patmos Church’s Well Activity Center, at 110 Athletes Row, Apopka, the event attracted campers from 17 cities and towns in Orange, Seminole, and Lake counties, and points beyond. Three children came all the way from Coral Springs (more than 200 miles south of Apopka), and one came from the Ocala area (about 80 miles north). “This year, our camp truly became an outreach project. We really made a breakthrough in reaching kids in our community, reaching into the community and making an impact.” Taylor said.
Cutting Edge Curriculum
Staffed with certified teachers, the camp attracted 4-14-year-olds and featured an expanded curriculum including leadership training, entrepreneurship, graphic design, computer programming, robotics, and social media readiness, along with traditional math and science. “We want to help students prepare their websites and improve their social media presence,” Taylor reiterated. “These are skills our kids will need later in life as they pursue their education and start their professional life.”
Students also built and programmed robots, worked with Lego-based engineering activities, and participated in hands-on technology learning designed to prepare them for a rapidly evolving digital world.
The technology push continues a direction the camp began exploring in earlier years. In 2025, the camp introduced students to Ozobots — small programmable robots that help teach coding, sequencing, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills through interactive play. The program was designed to make technology approachable for younger students while blending education with creativity and teamwork.
Now, with a dedicated computer lab and expanded curriculum, organizers say the camp is taking another major step forward. To support this initiative, the camp launches a first-rate computer lab, with 17 computers provided by AdventHealth. “If the need arises, we can access more computers,” Taylor said.
Getting Physical
But technology is only part of the experience. Taylor said physical activity remains a central component of the camp’s philosophy, with each week featuring a highlighted sport such as badminton, volleyball, basketball, or soccer. “Physical activity is important for the campers,” Taylor said. “It’s one factor in building good health.”
Staff members from AdventHealth will to speak with students throughout the summer about nutrition, wellness, and healthy lifestyle habits.
Alongside academics and athletics, the camp will continue offering field trips, creative arts activities, Ninja Warrior-style games, and faith-centered programming designed to create a safe and positive environment for children during the summer months. “From field trips and sports, creative arts, and Ninja warrior games, every week is designed to keep campers active, engaged, and excited to show up each day,” Taylor said.
Meal Time
One very popular feature of the camp is the gourmet lunches they receive every day. Chef Arturo Bello ensures the meals are healthy and nutritious. Bello is perhaps one of the most popular staffers. With kids coming from all parts of Central Florida, the mealtime offers a wonderful chance for the campers to meet new friends.
Starting in 2024, the Kids at the Well summer camp was born out of a desire to provide a biblically-based educational experience for children. A group of educators envisioned a learning experience that included athletics, bible, and STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) courses. Registration fees provide financial support, along with a grant and donations from church members.
These resources help the camp to provide scholarships for families that can’t afford the fees. In addition to the fees, several organizations, such as AdventistHealth and Orange County Public Schools, provide a wide variety of supplies and equipment for the camp.
“Parents can feel confident knowing their children are spending the summer in a safe, positive, Christian environment where they are cared for by nurturing leaders. Our goal is to give children an unforgettable summer packed with joy, a stronger faith in God, and memories they will carry with them for years to come. ”
Key Points:
- More than 160 children enrolled in the seven-week Kids at the Well summer camp, doubling last year's participation.
- Campers come from 17 cities and towns across Orange, Seminole, and Lake counties, with some traveling from as far away as Coral Springs and Ocala.
- The expanded curriculum includes robotics, coding, graphic design, entrepreneurship, leadership training, and computer programming.
- AdventHealth donated 17 computers to help establish a new computer lab, while healthcare professionals provide wellness and nutrition education.
- Athletics, creative arts, field trips, faith-based programming, and daily chef-prepared lunches round out the camp experience.
