By Kelley Hope, Camp Hanover, Mechanicsville, Virginia
Each spring and fall for one week, a group of mostly older adults gather at a place one typically associates with youth: a summer camp. But instead of canoeing and campfire songs, they come to work, volunteering their time and skills to tackle items on the host facility’s to-do list, bridging generations through service and shared purpose.
Mariners in Mission is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization composed mainly of retired Presbyterians across the U.S. Members range in age from the 40s into the 90s.
“Even the oldest among us still have much to give to others,” shared Manella Calhoun, a co-coordinator of the group.
That spirit of giving creates meaningful connections between generations—campers who benefit from improved facilities and volunteers who find joy in leaving a legacy.
Mariners collaborate with the host organization to determine the week’s projects. Typical jobs include construction, repairs, painting, and sewing. The skills or expertise of the week’s volunteers determine the specific projects they take on.
The Mariners’ Fall 2025 work week was held September 7-12 at Camp Gilmont in Gilmer, Texas. Fourteen volunteers framed bathroom additions to an existing building, replaced a cabin’s stairs, stained a bridge, and updated a safety perimeter around the zipline. They also made quilts from camp t-shirts to be auctioned at an upcoming fundraiser.
“It was such a blessing and a privilege to welcome Mariners in Mission to Gilmont,” said executive director Jennifer Rigoulot. “We are grateful for their skilled partnership in our ministry and for their hand in cultivating this safe, sacred space.”
In April 2024, the Mariners made their second visit to Virginia’s Camp Hanover with 11 volunteers. There, they repaired benches and built tables at two fire circles, made new cabin signs, and built gates to complete a new garden fence. They also hemmed curtains for cabins, small touches that make campers feel at home.
Many Mariner volunteers have been involved for fifteen or more years, with some participating since the 1980s. Over the years, they have become good friends and see the work weeks as a kind of family reunion.
“We relish the opportunity to travel the country in service together,” Manella emphasized.
These gatherings are more than work; they are moments of fellowship that model lifelong service for younger generations.
When not working, volunteers share morning watch, evening vespers, and puzzles and games like Mexican Train Dominoes. They also explore the local area, deepening their sense of community.
Join the Mariners’ Upcoming Work Week
April 12-18, 2026
Holston Camp & Retreat Center
Banner Elk, NC
Participants often drive to their work sites so they can bring the tools and equipment they use during the week. Volunteer Kendall, who lives in Iowa, shared that his commute to Virginia was 17 hours each direction, a testament to the commitment that bridges miles and generations alike.
“Adult children sometimes transport their folks to the work site; sometimes they stay and work too,” added Manella.
The host facility provides housing at no cost in exchange for the work the volunteers provide. They also provide any building materials needed, such as lumber. The Mariners either purchase meals from the facility or prepare their own meals if a kitchen is available.
Mariners in Mission welcomes new members for their spring 2026 work week in North Carolina. For more information about joining, email Manella.
Recent Mariners’ Work Sites
Kelley Hope enjoys sharing stories through words and visuals. She serves as organizational administrator for POAMN and communication specialist for Camp Hanover.
This article originally appeared in the 2026 Older Adult Ministry Resource Guide.