UAW members volunteer at GUMI Camp

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GUMI Camp USA recently welcomed volunteers from the UAW Local 2250, Wentzville, Missouri, for three days of hard work at the camp’s Cedar Creek retreat. A group of GM workers/UAW members has been coming for at least 10 years, except during Covid-19 travel restrictions, to serve through construction, infrastructure, or landscaping projects. 

The group became acquainted with GUMI Camp USA founder Tim Hadler, who is a singer/songwriter in Branson and Nashville, through his regular musical performances at the VFW in Hawk Point, Missouri. He often shares his vision for the camp along with his music, and they wanted to help provide a peaceful place for veterans to heal from trauma and connect with resources. “It’s something we really look forward to, a meaningful way to contribute,” said president Steve Newell of UAW Local 2250. Several of the group are also military veterans themselves. 

On this trip, a big project involved working to clear the way for White River Electric Cooperative to extend power lines through the property, a huge step toward being able to build additional lodging and facilities for veteran clients to relax or meet with counseling staff. The group also worked on completing the stone memorial wall, a key feature of the camp garden, so volunteer gardeners Fritz and Linda Oeser can continue their work of creating a beautiful and relaxing spot. The extended power lines will also enable irrigation facilities for the garden. 

Other volunteers on hand to help with the workdays included Hadler’s wife, Angie, and her crew of helpers serving lunch; and USMC Veteran Tim Hamilton, who introduced the group to “Tiger,” a 28-year-old horse who provides valuable equine companionship to camp clients.  

A big force behind all these projects has been Branson entrepreneur Paul Bluto, whose generous donation funded the property’s second well, another key to the continued development of camp facilities. Bluto’s background includes skilled trade work and UAW affiliation as well, and he visited the camp while the volunteers were at work to share his appreciation and see the progress.  

The Hadlers are thankful for the UAW Local 2250 and other volunteers, including area students and clubs, as well as the “Rock Stars” who help fund road improvements to access more of the property, and many other examples of God’s provision for the camp. Visit https://gumicampusa.com/ to arrange a visit or learn how to access the program for a veteran; as well as how your group can get involved to help this beautiful spot in the Ozarks provide even more opportunities for healing and wholeness.