Some summer camps have advanced basketweaving and moccasin making, which is cool, we guess.  But we always like doing “camp stuff” a little differently.  We decided that if Camp Vineyard was going to have classes, they should be things that would make you say “Neat!”  So, we created a few of these Neat! Groups for Illuminate.  We want every camper to pick two of the following groups to be a part of:

4 Chords and the Truth – Did you know that pretty much every pop or worship song of the last 40 years has the same 4 chords?  If you’re a beginner to intermediate guitar player, and you want to learn a few new tunes to take back home, this is a great opportunity to hang out with your fellow musicians and learn some new things.  Bring your own guitar (preferably acoustic, but electrics are cool, we just don’t have room for amps).

So the Apocalypse Happened.  Now What? – Want to learn some for-real survival techniques from someone who really knows their stuff?  Adam Lewis, our own special blend of Bear Grylls and Chuck Norris, will teach you things like survival kit construction, basic trapping, mental survival, and more.  If you’re an outdoorsy type, come learn some really cool stuff that could save your life.

Big Questions about Life, The Universe, and Everything – We all have questions about God, about faith, and about what we’re supposed to be doing with our lives.  Life can get complicated quickly, and we have so many different messages clamoring to get our attention.  Sorting through the noise requires us to ask questions, and that’s what this group is about.  If you have big questions, we have a couple of pastors with some wisdom that can help you out.

Mad Science and Grocery Store Rocketry – Wernher von Braun designed a 363-foot tall rocket that took men to the moon and inspired the world.  We’ve designed a 2-liter rocket car that will make you laugh, and be a stupid amount of fun.  Whether you’re a nerd (like Jon) or just love making something cool, this is the group for you.  You and a friend will work together to follow the plan to build, style, and launch your very own rocket car, powered by items you’d find in a grocery store.  (Don’t worry, parents, it’s safe.  Still, we have to say it: Don’t try this one at home.)

Fine Art, High Fashion, and Duct Tape – Were you coming to camp expecting to do basketweaving and moccasin making?  Are you a creative type that loves to make neat stuff?  Ever wonder if there are uses for duct tape besides attaching your little brother to the wall?  If you answered yes to any of the above, you’ll love this group.  Make a wallet, make some art, make whatever you want out of the Duct Tape we’ll provide.  One rule, though: If your little brother is at camp with you, you can’t stick him to the wall.

How to sign up
Visit the Neat! Groups Sign Up page, and follow the easy instructions to pick your 2 favorite groups!  Be sure to get your choices in before June 20th!