The trip, themed "Our Role as Muslims on Earth" was organized by the New Dimensions Community Services and was the second in its annual winter camp series.

Participants appreciated the well-organized program, which offered a blend of Islamic teaching through creative lectures, discussions and fun activities. Both young and old had an opportunity to try sledding, archery, hiking, horseback riding, as well as roast marshmallows, and visit the observatory.

Organizers used opportunities to infuse Islam into the activities; in a hike in the fresh air, they held up twigs and leaves and reminded the attendees of when the Muslims were boycotted by Makkah’s pagan population and had to eat nothing but leaves.

The three days increased the sense of bonding as the campers shared cabins, set up tables for meals, prayed together, and participated in discussions and activities which reinforced teamwork.

Organizers reminded the attendees that if we are united for a common purpose, we can achieve our goals by taking turns being both leaders and followers – a lesson that can be applied to our "ummah" or worldwide Muslim community as well.

Sixth graders Shazia Parekh and Noorhan Rahmatullah were pleasantly surprised and pleased with the lectures that were also given.

"The lectures were not taught in a monotonous routine and were not boring sessions, where they just talk," they said.

Adults had stimulating discussions on parenting and human interactions.

New Dimensions Community Services is a non-profit organization comprised of a small group of individuals dedicated to revive the Muslim ummah in shaping its next generation. Although its main focus is a full-time Islamic school with strong academics and a strong Islamic, Qur’anic and Arabic program, New Dimensions organizes numerous community activities such as this winter camp.