FLORAL JAM 2026
Event Information
Here’s an event preview from the Floral Jam Directors:
Floral Jam is a spring youth retreat at Suncrest Camp for students in 6th–12th grade, happening May 15-17 in Rochester, PA. This weekend is all about creating space to slow down, connect, and encounter Jesus in a real and personal way. With our theme for the weekend is “Death is Defeated,” our heart is that students would experience the freedom, hope, and new life that comes from Him. Through worship, sessions, and intentional cabin time, we’re believing for moments that truly stick—where students feel seen, known, and changed by the presence of God. Floral Jam is directed by Alyssa Roppa alongside camp president Tyler Puharic, who carries the same heart that has made Suncrest Camp feel like home for so many over the years. It’s also just a really fun, joy-filled weekend. Think late-night hangs, snack shack hang outs, team games like Flower Power Relay and Cabin Clash, and lots of laughter with new and old friends. There’s something special about being at camp—getting away from the normal routine, being surrounded by people who care, and just getting to be yourself. Whether it’s your first time or you’ve been coming for years, Floral Jam is a weekend to reset, be refreshed, and leave feeling encouraged, connected, and on fire for what God is doing in your life.
First time at a Suncrest weekend retreat? Here’s what to expect.
From Friday evening to Sunday morning, campers will have an awesome time with both old or new friends. From big crazy games unlike anything you could experience elsewhere to conversations around a bonfire, there are plenty of chances to have a fun-filled weekend that you’ll remember for years!
During both worship services and cabin times, youth will learn about the one true God who created them, loves them, and sent His son Jesus so that they may be saved.
Friday, May 15th - Sunday, May 17th
Friday Check-In/Drop-Off | 6:00pm
Sunday Pick-Up | 12:30pm
Both drop-off/pick-up are in The Tab, the big gray building you’ll see when you pull into camp.
For youth currently in Grades 6th - 12th
Cost: $90
Get the 2026 floral jam Shirt!
The only way to get a shirt is to register before Tuesday, April 28th!
No other Floral Jam
shirts will be available afterwards.
Camp Directors
alyssa roppa
Alyssa is married, a mom of four amazing kids, and a licensed foster parent. Her first experience at Suncrest Camp was around 2004 as a camper, and she attended every year through graduation. Camp quickly became something she was deeply passionate about—something she looked forward to every single summer. Alyssa has attended ministry school and has served in a variety of youth-focused roles over the years, investing in and discipling the next generation. It was at Suncrest Camp that Alyssa encountered Jesus for the very first time, and she has continued to be transformed by His presence there time and time again. Her heart is to create a space where students can experience that same life-changing encounter. Her prayer is that every student would have a personal encounter with Jesus through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit—one that transforms their life and sets them on fire for Christ.
tyler puharic
Tyler is the Assistant Pastor at Girard Alliance Church. Tyler has been at Suncrest for many years, as he grew up in Beaver County, and he married his wife, Amy, at our camp! Tyler first gave his life to Jesus at Suncrest Camp, and has since happily served as a counselor, director, and speaker. He loves to plan big, crazy, awesome weeks of camp that are full of fun, and focused on Jesus!
Camp Speaker
Sam hutchison
youth pastor at Greenville alliance church
Sam is serving as the Youth Pastor at Greenville Alliance Church in Greenville, PA. He grew up in Beaver Falls, PA where he also attended and graduated from Geneva College with a degree in Student Ministry. Sam attended Suncrest Camp as a kid all the way up to high school. He accepted Jesus at Suncrest Camp in Jr High. He has served camp as counselor, director, worker, cook (for a day) and speaker!
Sam and his wife, Maggie, have two daughters. Sam likes pretty much all sports, especially ones where he can cheer for Pittsburgh. He loves to walk with his family and try new foods! Feel free to come and chat with Sam when you see him at camp!
Here’s what your camper will need to have packed.
Bible/Notebook
We keep some free Bibles on hand, so please let us know if you don’t have one.
Clothes and shoes that you can run around in
We recommend a second pair of shoes in case one gets wet.
Please pack some extra clothes for either wet/messy games.
Cash for Snack Shack (Optional)
We recommend $10 per camper for a weekend retreat.
Bedding for Twin Mattress (Sheets/Blankets/Sleeping Bag) and Pillow
It can get cold at night, so please pack an extra blanket and hoodie.
Toiletries and Bath Towel(s)
Prescription Medications
Please put in a Ziploc bag, and label with camper name and parent’s phone number.
For safety reasons, campers are not allowed to keep medication on them/in their belongings. However, counselors can access medications at any time of day.
Reusable Water Bottle
If possible, please put camper’s name on the water bottle.
Umbrella/Rain boots
While not a necessity, these can be nice to have.
Note about Weather/Camp Conditions:
Please be aware that Suncrest does not have cooling/heating. This has not been a problem for us, but please be prepared. Please pack extra socks, sweatpants, hoodie, shoes - just in case anything gets wet.
Schedule
Frequently Asked Questions
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We proactively focus on your child’s safety, and recruit our volunteers churches and ministries that we know well. All Floral Jam Cabin Counselors will be a minimum of 18 years of age, but often many older adults are serving as well.
All volunteers have all required background checks/clearances according to PA state law. -
At preteen/teen ages, we give our campers some free time (within certain public areas) and the ability to go to their cabin on their own for rest. However, campers are still closely supervised throughout the day, and we encourage group activities. We have clear boundaries of where campers may be depending on time/camp activity.
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Absolutely! While we highly recommend they join us for the whole weekend - we know some years that just won’t work. We can make accommodations, we just need to know ahead of time. Please email us at info@suncrestcamp.com
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Email us at info@suncrestcamp.com put Floral Jam Question in the subject line, and we’ll forward it along!
