LAFAYETTE PARISH, La. — While summer vacation often signals a break from school, hundreds of Lafayette Parish students spent their week discovering that learning can be exciting, meaningful, and filled with purpose. Through Camp Invention, children immersed themselves in hands-on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) activities that encouraged creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving while developing skills that could shape tomorrow’s leaders.
Scripture reminds us in Proverbs 22:6, “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.” Programs like Camp Invention provide opportunities for young people to uncover the gifts and talents God has placed within them while learning to use those abilities to serve others.
Bold Ideas Inspired by Compassion
For fourth-grade camper Asher Beebe, the highlight of the week wasn’t simply creating inventions—it was sharing the experience with friends while imagining ways to make the world a better place.
Inspired by growing concerns about pollution in the oceans, Asher designed a specialized backpack capable of collecting trash while protecting marine life. His invention would use sensors to distinguish between animals and debris, ensuring sea creatures remain safe while waste is removed.
His concern for God’s creation reflects the biblical calling found in Genesis 2:15, where humanity is entrusted with caring for the earth. Asher’s creativity demonstrates that even at a young age, children can become faithful stewards by seeking solutions that protect the environment and preserve life.
Mentors Helping Students Discover Their Calling
Camp counselor Marleigh Auzenne understands how powerful encouragement can be. Aspiring to pursue a career in pharmacy, she chose to spend her summer helping children explore their own interests in science and technology.
By investing her time in the next generation, Auzenne reflects the principle found in 1 Thessalonians 5:11, “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up.” Her leadership reminds students that every discovery begins with curiosity and every future career begins with someone willing to believe in their potential.
Leader-in-training Fletcher Champagne echoed that same message, explaining that one of the most rewarding moments is watching children complete their first invention and realize they are capable of achieving something they once thought impossible. Those moments of confidence often become the foundation for lifelong dreams.
A Community Investing in the Future
This summer, Camp Invention expanded to five locations across Lafayette Parish, allowing hundreds more students to participate thanks to generous scholarship support from Louisiana Blue, Love Our Schools, MacLaff, Inc., Pinhook Foundation, The Stuller Family Foundation, and Moncus Foundation.
Their investment reflects the truth of Galatians 6:9, encouraging believers not to grow weary in doing good, knowing that faithful acts of generosity produce lasting fruit. By removing financial barriers, these organizations helped ensure that more children could develop their talents, build confidence, and prepare for future opportunities.
As these young inventors return home with new ideas and greater confidence, they also carry the reminder that God has uniquely gifted each of them with abilities that can bless their communities and impact the world for generations to come.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the minds You have created and the unique gifts You have placed within every child. Bless the students, counselors, volunteers, families, and community partners who made Camp Invention possible. Continue to inspire these young learners to use their creativity, wisdom, and compassion to serve others and care for Your creation. Raise up future scientists, engineers, healthcare professionals, teachers, and leaders who will honor You through their work. May they always remember that every good gift comes from You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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