This morning I took a pre-dawn walk around Avon Park.  The first thing that strikes me about the ministry here is the opportunity the camp has seized to be a ministry to senior citizens.

The camp has a bevy of mobile homes, RV spaces, ranchers and apartment options for snow birds fleeing south.  Even though it is early October I can remember two years this week ago freezing in central Ohio as the chill had already descended, last year we fared better in Cape May with cool nights and warm days.  Yesterday I stepped off the plane here and it was in the mid-80’s.  I can see why people would migrate to a place like Avon Park for the winter months.  The ministry down here has done a good job providing options for those who want to make the trip.

Behind the camp facility is Oaks Retirement Villiage.  Until very recently it was a ministry of World Gospel Mission and many of the residents there support the camp meeting here.  As I walked the grounds of the Oaks this morning I could see where this would also be a very enticing option for retirees.  With the economic crunch the new owners it is rumored will be offering short and long term rental options along with purchase opportunities.  Avon Park Camp also offers rental options for a series of apartments they own.  I hope to tour them when we look under the hood in tomorrow morning’s session with the Avon Park leadership.

The buildings here are block, low maintenance structures and are well kept.  There is quite a crew out here this morning swapping stories and taking their morning walks.  It seems a vital place even during their off season.

Avon Park is unique in its winter program and temperate climate but it worth noting they are doing a lot of things to minister to the population of the area and taking advantage of their surroundings.