IGNITE!  What is it?

(Both Ignite 1 and Ignite 2 are full for 2025.  Please consider one of our overnight camps for teens.  You can find more information under our “Summer” tab above.)

Matthew 5:14-16 14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

Ignite 1 and 2 are full for Summer 2025. Please consider our camping programs found under the “Summer” tab above.

IGNITE! is a two-part program for young people ages 14-15 seeking to deepen their faith in Jesus and grow in leadership. The program is designed to use the camp setting to create experiences and opportunity for learning, service, and faith development.

Our hope is that the Ignite program participants will be engaged to develop skills and leadership abilities, to become more effective leaders in their corps (churches), as future camp staff members, and beyond.

To be considered for the Ignite program, participants should understand the following:

As a training and discipleship program, all program participants will be supervised by the Ignite program leader. The Ignite program leader will provide accountability, support, and guidance, as well as daily schedules, mentor time, and Bible studies to encourage continued growth throughout the summer. Ignite is a Bible based discipleship program following the life, teachings and example of Jesus Christ.

Just as Jesus was called the “Light of the World” so we are called to be lights that shine in this world. Come learn how your light can shine brighter and “glorify your Father in heaven”. At least 14? Apply now! (If you’re 13, take a look at our Sparks page.)

To apply, click on the green button to the left! (link will be live after Christmas)

Have questions or need additional info? Contact:

Camp Arnold Director – Jeff Potts: jeff.potts@usw.salvationarmy.org

Divisional Youth Specialist – Mackenzie McQuade: mackenzie.mcQuade@usw.salvationarmy.org

Program, Stipend & End of Summer Bonus Information

Ignite participants serve as volunteers, but to honor their time and commitment, a weekly stipend is provided.

Program Dates for 2025

  • Ignite 1: June 21 – July 18 (optional day for end of summer banquet August 9)
  • Ignite 2: June 21 – August 9
  • If you are unavailable for any days or weeks please mention this in your interview. If you must miss more than one week, you should not apply this year. 

Weekly Stipend

  • Each Ignite participant, level 1 and 2, receives a $60 stipend per week.
  • Ignite 1 Stipends are distributed in cash each week, with a required signature to confirm receipt
    • A completed W-9 form is required for all participants. Depending on total earnings, a 1099 form may be issued at the end of the year.
  • Ignite 2 Stipends are distributed via direct deposit.
    • Direct deposit set up before camp begins. The account can be in the participant’s or a parent/guardian’s name.
    • A completed W-9 form is required for all participants. Depending on total earnings, a 1099 form may be issued at the end of the year.

End-of-Summer Bonus

  • A bonus is available for participants who complete their full commitment to the Ignite Program:
  • Ignite 1: $100 bonus, Ignite 2: $200 bonus
  • Participants who miss up to one week but return for the final week will receive half the bonus. Absences must be approved in advance and may not be more than one week.
  • Those who do not return for the final week will not receive a bonus.

Post-Summer Assignments

  • Participants are encouraged to complete Post-Summer Assignments to continue their journey and growth.  (Assignments will be included in the Ignite Manual)
  • Upon completion of the Post-Summer Assignments participants will receive and additional $350 stipend.
  • Post-Summer Assignments must be completed by March 1st.

Future Participation

  • Successfully completing Ignite 1 will provide participants with early access to Ignite 2 applications.
  • Successfully completing Ignite 2 will provide participants with early access to Summer paid job positions.