How KP and Ryan Kuenast Continue to Partner with T Bar M Through Generosity
Since our beginning in 1981, T Bar M Camps & Retreats has been all about relationships. We desire to see life-change and God’s Truth practiced in our relationship with Him and our relationships with each other. Ryan and KP Kuenast have experienced life-change here at T Bar M, by serving as Coaches, Leadership, and now partnering with us!
For KP, T Bar M was a fixture of her childhood, starting at age five when she leapt into the world of Day Camp in 2004. Her summers were marked by adventure and spiritual growth, as she transitioned from Camper to Day Camp Coach to Sports Camp Coach and eventually the Sports Camp Leadership Team. Yet, becoming a Coach wasn’t always a clear path. KP remembers doubting herself, thinking she wasn’t as “cool” as the Coaches she looked up to. It took the encouragement from Will, her former youth pastor and then Day Camp Director, to convince her otherwise. This simple push led KP to become a Coach where she learned to selflessly serve and love others each day.
Not growing up as a Camper, Ryan’s story begins quite differently, but his life is forever changed by the Truth he experienced while serving at T Bar M. “College was a difficult time for my faith,” Ryan recalled, which left him feeling hesitant about the idea of serving as a camp counselor. Like KP, “I thought I wasn’t good enough.” It wasn’t until he picked up his sister from another summer camp that he felt like he should give it a try. The encouragement of friends and a memorable interview with Judah, his future Camp Director, led him to T Bar M, where he worked several summers, finding new life and joy in Jesus Christ. During that time, he was baptized - publicly proclaiming his new life in Christ and his understanding that God uses broken people to create something beautiful.
Though the two of them first crossed paths at T Bar M Sports Camp during training week, they did not work the same halves until the next year. After playing together as partners in the infamous Coaches’ Cup tournament, the rest was history. They started dating that summer and got married a few years later. Even now, they laugh with their friends about having “the best future Family Camp cabin” with their own kids someday (they might have some competition for that!).
After experiencing those bittersweet feelings we all feel when we reach our first summer away from Camp, Ryan and KP learned that some of the most meaningful ways to stay connected are through prayer and giving. Their generosity started with the desire to be faithful with what God has given them.
They both recall a sermon series done by their local church on 2 Corinthians 8-9. Their pastor focused on God’s heart in giving for the lost, giving for the city, and giving for the future. This led the Kuenasts to pray and consider giving to both their local church and to T Bar M.
“Giving isn’t just another line on the budget. It is an opportunity to pray, worship, and thank the Lord each month for His provision.”
For the Kuenasts, partnering with T Bar M serves as a reminder of the way God has used Camp in their lives, and a chance to pray for the ways He will continue to change lives for generations to come. They know that their gifts, though given humbly, are part of a larger story God is writing - one where future Coaches and Campers might encounter Jesus just as they did.
KP (Innergized - Take A Stand Camper, Take A Stand and Final Score Day Camp Coach, Dial’d In, Real Deal, Fired Up, Bonadife Sports Camp Coach and Leadership) and Ryan Kuenast (Dial’d In, Real Deal, Fired Up, Bonafide Sports Camp Coach and Leadership)
This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. - Psalm 118:24
"On Saturday, November 9th, 2024, T Bar M Camps & Retreats staff, trustees, and friends gathered at the old Cedar Theater in the Outback of our New Braunfels property. There, we celebrated the groundbreaking of our new Family Camp and retreat facilities on 20 recently added acres adjacent to Base Camp (formerly known as Sports Camp). It was an exciting day of anticipating and praying for all the Lord will do as He expands our territory.
It was my pleasure to welcome the crowd of 150 friends and family as we looked out over the freshly cut trees that had been cleared to make way for the new dining hall and maintenance facility that will be built in the first phase of construction.
I wasn’t sure whether this was a “four score and seven years ago…” or a “dearly beloved, we are gathered here today…” type of event. So, I went with what was on my heart. A day of thankfulness and Psalm 118 seemed to be a perfect narrative for the day. This psalm is an expression of faith and gratitude. I love the emphasis on each day as a gift and a chance to respond with joy and thanksgiving. It was a blessing to have so many there to support T Bar M’s next season as we marked that day as one of remembrance with a desire to be faithful and obedient to what the Lord is doing both in and through this ministry.
I was reminded as we gathered to celebrate buildings, fields, and plans; it is really the people that are the difference at T Bar M—and that includes each of you! It has always been about relationships, our relationship with our Lord and our relationship with each other.
We have several battle cries around here, and I think they are appropriate to acknowledge as we move into this new chapter for T Bar M. Maybe “Don’t Waste Fun” or “Love God, Love Others” is permanently etched in your heart. Our heart’s desire as the Lord expands our territory is that these values and themes would not only be descriptive of our past but also would define the experience of all who come through our gates in the future. We are so thankful for this platform the Lord has used for 43 years of Christ-Centered Adventure.
At T Bar M, worship is a soundtrack that resonates deeply in our hearts, and this day was no different. We worshiped the Lord in song, ending with a heartfelt chorus of “Sanctuary.” The singing quickly turned to laughter as our skit characters, Jack Hammer and Allen Wrench, showed up to remind us about all the history of this place we call home.
The actual history was shared by Scott Turpin, a second-generation member of the founding family and current Trustee. He shared an inspiring reflection on all the Lord has accomplished in and through T Bar M. His thoughts on Proverbs 3:5-6 painted a picture of our desire to trust the Lord in this season and offered a realistic perspective on what it means for Him to “…make straight your paths.” (Hint: it’s not usually straight, but it’s always worth it)
We also heard from Randy Sims, a former Sports Camp Director and current pastor who partners with T Bar M by hosting Discover Camp. The memories he shared were both a reminder and a challenge to pray as the Lord continues to use T Bar M in the lives of families. He shared, “My greatest memories of this Holy Ground are watching families learn how to Love God and Love Others.”
John MacDonald, a former Camp Travis Coach and now T Bar M’s President (or as we like to call him, Head Guy), delivered a great charge from Deuteronomy 28. His message reminded us of our covenant relationship with God and His steadfast love and care as He continues to guide us through this season of growth. John’s encouragement finished with, “As we break the soil today, we declare this new property for the furthering of Christ’s Kingdom. May all who come in be blessed, and all who go out, be a blessing to others.”
The ceremony wrapped up with a sweet time of prayer as we all circled up—yes, in one, huge circle. We took plenty of pictures, of course, both formal and informal. We started with a group of family and friends representing every stage of T Bar M campers: The Turpin Family representing Family Camp, a few Alumni, Timothy Team, a Coach, and Campers of all ages. We’ll look back on this photo for years to come, remembering the day we declared, ‘Lord, this is YOUR day, and we want YOU to receive all the honor and glory for all that you will do with this new platform!’
As we prayed, we reflected on the core values that are the cornerstone of all we do. I invite you to join us as we continue to ask the Lord to use T Bar M Camps & Retreats to point people to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Will you pray with us:
As John 10:10 says, we desire the abundant life. Lord, help us embrace ‘Don’t Waste Fun’ and live joyfully for Your glory.
From Philippians and Colossians: Lord, help us walk in humility, valuing others above ourselves, so that we may serve our guests well. In all we do—whether in word or deed—help us do it all in Your name with grateful hearts. Guide us to be servant leaders as we live out this Christ-centered Adventure.
Lord, we desire to excel still more, practicing Your Truth in relationships and conduct. Help us grow in wisdom, stature, and in favor with You and with others.
Most of all, Lord, this is about Your Kingdom, by Your power, and for Your glory alone.
Amen.”
- Cole Adams, Senior Director of Development
- Together is better. A family that prays together, and plays together, stays together! The time at Family Camp sets a tone for when you get home. It reminds you of the importance of praying and playing together regularly.
- Make time to huddle. Pick a time … in the morning, just before bed, whenever is best for your family. Sit around the table without distractions to talk and listen and know one another.
- Don’t Waste Fun. In fact, weave fun into your rhythm of life.
- Add to your family. There are still amazing College Students living for Jesus … at T Bar M they are grafted into your family for a week of great impact (on the kids AND the parents)
- Timely Reset. Your annual reset doesn’t have to happen in January. Pick a week in the summer for your family’s time to look back and reflect as well as make goals and look forward to the rest of the year.
- Goodnight Goodies are always a good idea. Topping off the day together with warm cookies and milk is a special treat (and the cookies are good too!)
- Let your kids see you be silly. Dress up for the theme night, let the belly laugh come, go all in at the kickball game, even if you whiff. Kids need to see you play … and well, you need to play.
- Welcome Home! As alumni, we can’t WAIT for you to come “home” to Camp as a family! Show your family the place that had such an impact on your life.
- God is writing amazing stories. Gather with other adults to hear what God is doing and how He is carrying them through the hard. It is quite a gift to hear and share these stories.
- God is good, all the time. He just is. Take a week to get away and be reminded of that very Truth.
"There is an old rustic camp in Spicewood, TX where “Breakfast at Rio Grande” ignites a flood of nostalgic feel goods buried deep in our bones… I’m talking about a little place called Camp Travis.
If we’re counting (and we always do) it’s been almost 24 years since my first summer as a Travis Camper. I was thirteen and thirsty for attention, affection and the appeal of the world. And in the midst of those cravings, Camp Travis became a little taste of heaven on earth, better than anything this world had to offer. I still remember the moment God called me to abandon the lifestyle I was chasing to follow Him. After lights out that night, I called my Coach over to my bed and whispered to her, “I won’t ever be the same again.” And I wasn’t.
As a Coach, I watched this same story unfold in the lives of my Campers, and as I got to be a part of it, my heart beat faster and harder, as if it was in sync with the very heart of God. I knew there was something about this Camp thing I was created for.
Years passed, and just when I thought Camp had disappeared in my rear view mirror, God made my way back through the Camp Travis gate and down the dirt road for one last summer in the Rio. It was the most fun I’ve ever had, and the icing on the honey bun cake was when the Programs guy smiled and asked me for a cup of yogurt. A couple of months later, on the Rio porch, he asked me to marry him.
Together, we’ve been at this Camp thing since then, traveling Texas with Discover and making the shift from Sports to Base Camp. But after two years of working on Facilities, we’re ready to get back to the nitty gritty of camp life!
“So I said, ‘What about breakfast at Rio Grande?!”
We’re humbled and grateful God is making our way back through the gates of Camp Travis with the big ole gift of stewarding such a sacred place and people for his namesake, this time, with our three boys in tow. We are so excited for them to get a taste!
As we reflect on the story God has been writing, we are in awe of the redeeming notes throughout it. It’s a story that boasts of God’s faithfulness amidst our failures, testifying of Christ alone. And to that, we are filled with joy!
Hoop Diggity and Andele Andele!!"
- Kara Overby
On October 7th, 2024, we gathered for the 3rd Annual T Bar M Classic - and what a day it was! With over 90 golfers coming together to enjoy some friendly competition and support a cause close to our hearts, the energy was high at Kissing Tree Golf Club.
Thanks to the generosity of our players, sponsors, and donors, an incredible $93,000 for our Campership Fund. These funds will make it possible for even more kids to experience the life-changing impact of Camp: A place where they’ll grow in their faith, deepen friendships, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
From the moment our golfers hit the course to the final putt, the atmosphere was filled with camaraderie, laughter, and a shared purpose. Teams teed off and had some fun along the journey with holes featuring a ball launcher, skit clothes, and a hole-in-one contest. There were plenty of moments that reminded us that while golf is fun, this tournament is about so much more.
We have the privilege of serving with our time, our talent, and our treasures. All are given to us by God to invest in His Kingdom. To our players and sponsors, thank you for serving T Bar M Campers with all three.
Time: Busy lives and busy schedules often present challenges to gathering, so thank you for spending the day with us on the course.
Talent: Thank you for connecting us to those who joined The Classic and for connecting us to families who may benefit from Scholarships.
Treasure: You helped raise $93,000 for the Camper Scholarship Fund in one day! Your treasures will go directly to helping send a child to Camp who would not be able to come without your support.
Events like the T Bar M Classic are only possible because of the amazing support from sponsors, players, and everyone who believes in the impact of a week at Camp. Your participation doesn’t just make the day a success - it makes Camp possible for so many kids who otherwise wouldn’t have the chance to come. If you would like to continue supporting Camper Scholarships or know someone who would, find out more here.
Special shoutout to our title sponsor, Keith Wing Custom Builders, and all the incredible teams who made this event one to remember. Your generosity and enthusiasm have made a tangible impact, and we can’t thank you enough for partnering with us in this mission. Check out all our amazing sponsors here.
As we wrap up another successful T Bar M Classic, we’re already looking forward to next year’s tournament. Until then, we celebrate the amazing results of this year and the countless lives that will be changed because of it.
Thank you for making the 3rd Annual T Bar M Classic one for the books!
Where Love and Camp Meet: The Impact of the Campership Fund
At T Bar M, we believe every kid should experience the fun, growth, and deeper faith that Camp brings. Thanks to our Campership Fund, made possible by generous Donors, Campers who might not otherwise have the chance are able to come, play, and experience God in powerful ways.
Life-Changing Moments at Camp
Each scholarship opens the door for Campers to dive into a week filled with new friendships, fun, and Jesus. As one Base Camper shared, “I love that I get to grow my faith in God. Thank you for getting me to Camp!” It’s not just about the activities - it’s about hearts being shaped for eternity.
Another Camper expressed, “My favorite thing was Trail Guide because I got close to God and learned memory verses.” Whether it’s learning about Jesus or conquering the blob, Camp is full of moments that last far beyond their time with us.
Community that Transforms
At Camp Travis, the impact goes even deeper. One Camper shared, “At Camp, I learned and grew to walk the way Jesus did, to not live for things of this world.” Here, it’s all about the community - believers coming together, encouraging one another, and building lifelong relationships rooted in faith.
For many, T Bar M becomes a second home. One Camper reflected, “Camp Travis truly is like home to me.” That sense of belonging and spiritual growth is what makes T Bar M special: Campers leave different than they came, carrying the love of Christ with them.
Your Gift, Their Growth
Thanks to the Campership Fund, stories like these happen every summer. A Camper shared, “No matter how broken you are in life, my Father will pick me up and help shape me to be a citizen of heaven.” That’s the kind of transformation your generosity makes possible!
If you want to be part of this life-changing impact, consider supporting the Campership Fund here or learn more about The Classic, one of the events that helps make camp possible for so many
Earning point in FUAGNEM February is a lot easier than you think ... applying the rhythms of our summers or years at T Bar M into our everyday life.
We sit and eat with our friends.
We strive to huddle up as a family at the end of a day, even if it’s only to talk through hard things.
We take our neighbors trash can in.
We for sure eat at Chick-fil-A. (Surely that’s the yellow meal)
We text each other encouraging things … sometimes.
We find ourselves telling our kids about how we used to have 12 kids that cleaned cabins.
We get excited when we see our own kid apply to Work Crew or to be a Coach.
We tell others about what God is doing in our lives and listen as they do the same.
And if it's not those things... it’s time to grab those camo pants, cue the Mission Impossible music and start.
It will make your days better and help YOUR team win. (Motivator: Looks like the Alphas have the lead now!)
Download this score sheet. Tape it to your fridge, put it in your car, place it in the middle of the table. Use these categories to have high connection, silly moments and fun with your friends, roommates, and family. Simply keep a tally mark of each time you do one of the tasks, tally it up, and send it to alumni@tbarm.org by February 29th (yep, we have an extra day to "Don't Waste Fun" this year).
The WINNER of this Alumni Competition plus the Summer 2024 Summer Theme will be announced on March 1st.
I know, you can't wait. Me Either
- Kelli Boyd + Your T Bar M Family
The Timothy Team has arrived home from Maui!
The second half of our trip to Maui was full of lots of work & even more fun! We spent a few more days on the farm, turning trimmings of their plants into new ones that will beautify new housing developments for families displaced as a result of the August fires. With an eventual plant total of around 1,500, it was incredibly rewarding to see the products of our hard work on this project begin to be delivered to the farm’s church partner. We also spent more time at the distribution center unpacking, processing, and organizing shipping containers full of new donations. A few of us were able to lead high schoolers in a nursing program through team-building games.
We also left plenty of time for rest & play, spending most of our evenings watching the sunset from the beach. On Sunday, we went back to Hope Chapel to join our friends for worship & teaching. We were also able to eat our lunch there, supporting their youth ministry in sending their students to camp this summer! On Sunday afternoon, we did some souvenir shopping, played beach volleyball, and spent hours in the ocean with Hope Chapel’s young adult ministry. Monday was our last day on the island, and we spent the day on a boat tour snorkeling and whale watching.
Each night we spent the last moments of the evening discussing the moments of that day where we saw God move. Between our work on the farm, conversations at the distribution center, moments of wonder at God’s creation, and more, it was clear that God met each one of us in a unique way on our trip. Through our service, hard work, fun, and fellowship, God used our time in Maui not only to bring hope, healing, and the light of Christ into a dark situation, but to draw near to each of us. We are so, so thankful for all of the prayers, planning, and financial support that made our time in Maui possible!!
Love God, Love Others,
Claire + The Timothy Team
Timothy Team 28 Says Hello From Maui!
Over the past few days on the island, our team has been blessed with a variety of opportunities to serve the people of Maui.
We’ve been staying and working on a family-operated farm that produces bananas, coconuts, guavas, lilikoi (passionfruit), avocados, and more. The property is a busy place full of family members, interns, guests, rams, sheep, chickens, and cats. Along with a few other projects around the farm, we’ve spent most of our time over the past few days planting ferns, parrot beak heliconias, coconuts, and paikas in portable bags to be distributed to some of the farm’s ministry partners. Eventually, these bags will be replanted in new housing developments for families displaced by the devastating fires in August of last year. Our final count came out to around 900 plants, and it was so exciting to see the Lord use the work of our many hands to bring forth life & beauty that will long outlast our short stay on the island.
On Wednesday night, we spent time with the young adults of Hope Chapel Church, joining them for worship and leading them in a few of our favorite team building games. It was so much fun to befriend some of our peers here on the island and share some of what we do every day in New Braunfels with them.
On Thursday, we were able to send a group to serve at a distribution center organizing boxes full of food, bedding, and personal care products for those in need as a result of the fires. It was so exciting to be able to serve those families in such a tangible way.
We’ve been blessed to hear from a few of our friends here that our work has been an answered prayer for them, and we’re so excited to see what else God has in store for us in our remaining time on Maui!!
We are so thankful for all of the prayers and support of our friends, family, and the T Bar M community. This trip couldn’t have happened without you!
- Claire + Timothy Team 28
It's a good family to be a part of. A really good one.
As 270 plus alumni gathered two Saturdays ago to pray for and support Jen and Cole Adams before Layne's Celebration of Life service, we could not deny the JOY that was in that room. Even in the midst of hard things, there was a joy and peace that only comes from Christ. Glen Stern said years ago, "There is going to be a room in heaven that's a bit louder and tighter than the others. People are going to wonder who is in there. 'Oh, that's the T Bar M Family', they will say."
The family that we are a part of began when we walked through the gates of T Bar M, stood in a circle at Training Camp, hauled rocks with a new friend during Hi Hos, shared our stories with one another, prayed for the campers we longed to know Jesus, and laughed, cried, and encouraged one another for the weeks or years we served our Father together.
Those are the days, weeks, years that shaped us each in some way, and we want to put into action what God did and continues to do in us.
So, let's do it ... the whole month of February! Let's connect, let's laugh, let's impact our hearts, homes and communities. And let's see who wins at it all ... Alphas or Omegas!
Check out all the details of FUAGNEM February: How to connect others, how to compete for your team (ALPHA or OMEGA), and how to follow and add to the excitement here at T Bar M.
A few of our young professional Alumni in Austin have created a video to get YOU Fired Up.