From left, Noble REMC’s Touchstone Energy campers Grant Lake, Austin Schuman and Bryce Millhouse.

Bucket trucks, zip lines and rowboats are what students will remember from their time spent at Touchstone Energy Camp this summer.

Noble REMC sponsored three students —Bryce Millhouse and Austin Schuman, both from Avilla Elementary School, and Grant Lake from St. Mary’s Catholic School — to travel to Camp Tecumseh in Brookston, Indiana, for four days of fun in June. The three joined more than 130 other students at the unique camp.

Students entering seventh grade this fall were eligible to attend, and applications were judged anonymously to select the participants.

Campers enjoyed traditional outdoor camp activities, such as horseback riding, swimming, campfires and rock climbing. In addition to these activities, campers learned about the environment, electrical safety practices and the cooperative business model.

“Touchstone Energy Camp provides immeasurable benefits to both our community and our cooperative,” Noble REMC CEO Ron Raypole said. “We’re glad to support our youth at this camp.”

But don’t take our word for it. Hear about the experience straight from the campers:

“Thank you for sending me to Touchstone Energy Camp. I had so much fun zip lining, riding horses, rock climbing and swimming. My favorite thing was to go up in the bucket truck. I have always wanted to go up in one, but I never got the chance before camp. My brother, Cole, is looking forward to applying next year. Thank you very much!” — Grant Lake

“What I liked about camp was meeting new friends and going out on the rowboat. I thought the counselor was very nice. Since I had hurt my foot three days before going to camp, he took me out in the rowboat so I could also enjoy the canoe outing. I also enjoyed learning new things like building a three-phase electrical pole.” — Austin Schuman

“Touchstone Energy Camp was so much more fun than I could ever have imagined. I had my first experiences with zip lining and kayaking. I made some really good friends with kids and camp counselors. Each day was full of fun activities, and we learned a lot about electricity and safety. I even got to climb a utility pole! I hope that more people will get to have the same opportunity that I did in the years to come. Thank you, Noble REMC!” — Bryce Millhouse