We realized years ago that our annual conference had grown into a three-generation event, and we responded to the needs of our growing families by providing an outrageously fun experience while weaving in stories and activities aimed at stirring a child’s heart for faith and generosity. Our hope is two-fold: for friendships that are forged within GenNext to carry and deepen year after year of participation, and for the virtues and Scriptures that are modeled at GenNext to reinforce the lessons already taught at home.
In past years, students have gone kayaking and snorkeling, taken cooking classes, visited a rodeo and aquarium, and worked in teams to problem-solve their way out of “escape rooms.” They have also prepared and hosted a birthday party for children living in a homeless shelter. We take care to provide age-appropriate activities. Counselors share their personal testimonies and teach from a Bible study. Our older students will attend a few of The Gathering’s main sessions. We also invite some of our speakers to address the youth on various topics as well.
Groups
To provide the best activities and learning environments for our children at all stages of their lives, we offer four age groups, based on where our children are in school when they arrive in September.
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Schedule
The GenNext schedule perfectly complements the main Gathering schedule, allowing adults to attend their selected sessions and classes while also giving families some free time together.
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Staff
Our pool of counselors is drawn from a selective, 8-month leadership training program for young Christian adults, called The Forge. They are vetted, trained, experienced, and eager to pour into the lives of the students. The leaders of GenNext have a wonderful history with the Forge.
Highlights from GenNext
Frequently Asked Questions
What age do my kids have to be to attend the GenNext program?
We would love to have your fully potty-trained 3-year-olds and up. Our program is divided into four age groups with activities that are geared toward that age. Once they graduate high school, we would love for them to attend the adult conference with you.
What's the typical schedule each day for the Gennext program?
GenNext runs alongside the adult conference's timing but we do very different activities. From animal adventures to thrill rides and engaging speakers to water parks, we do it all while you enjoy the event at the hotel. We do take the students off-property to enjoy all the town has to offer.
Do my kids have to stay in the program all day long or can they come and go?
Since we leave the property, we prefer them to stay with us all day so they don't miss anything. However, you can work with the GenNext team if you would like them to return early or arrive late.
Will my kids be going through similar content as the adult conference?
We always attempt to add content from the adult conference into the GenNext program. Some years are we are able to add in more speakers and simulations while in other years we spend a larger portion out and about. For our older kids, we incorporate as many the young-adult-friendly authors and speakers as possible.
