More than 600 Pathfinders, parents, and staff set out for Pathfinder Fair in a brand new, yet familiar, location this year!

“Before Daniel Ortega left our conference he had made a connection with another gentleman named Roger McDougal, whose family owns the land here in Jasper––the former site of the old Laurelwood Academy. It’s been part of their mission to give back to Oregon Adventist youth,” shared Jackee Duvall, OC executive director for club ministries. “They invited us to come out and look at the property, and offered to let us use it at no cost, essentially saving us between $4,000-$6,000. We toured the property, and it was absolutely gorgeous. It’s a large property that runs along the river with a nursery and a farm where they grow vegetables, flowers, and fruits. They have a big pole barn that’s been remodeled that we could use as a venue, so there was a place for us to have food and do our indoor stuff. They also have a dorm where myself and our coordinators were able to stay. They were so helpful in preparing for us to come, and even though they offered everything at no cost we did decide to make a donation back to cover the cost of garbage, water, and electricity.”

For those who haven’t yet experienced it, Pathfinder fair is a highly anticipated annual event that brings together Pathfinder clubs from every corner of our conference territory for an end-of-the-Pathfinder-year celebration. Clubs showcase the things they have been working on throughout the previous year and host activities and honors for the other clubs. Other highlights included an obstacle course, stilts, bubbles, the Big Lake climbing wall, food booths, an awards ceremony, and the Master TLT investiture service. “I heard multiple times that this was probably one of the best Pathfinder fairs that our clubs had been to, and while we take that as a huge compliment that we did something right, I think the location was probably the biggest reason,” said Jackee. “I heard over and over again that it was so beautiful and peaceful, a place where the kids could spread out their activities. They were just at ease, and it flowed so well.”

Some eleven Pathfinder clubs were able to set up camp onsite for the weekend at no cost this year. “It’s been a wonderful connection,” said Jackee. “We’ll be heading back again in September for Pathfinder Camporee!”

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