Branson-based Kanakuk Kamps and its associated ministries are a multimillion-dollar global enterprise that includes the largest evangelical sports summer camp in the world. Since 1926, Kanakuk has hosted more than 500,000 campers and 50,000 staffers in Missouri and its many international locations.
The camp developed its Child Protection Plan in 2009, after one of its directors was arrested and charged with abusing children he’d met at camp and through related ministries. Ever since Pete Newman pleaded guilty to sexually abusing six boys, Kanakuk has touted itself as a leader in child safety, holding seminars across the nation.
But in interviews with dozens of victims and former camp employees reporters working for the Springfield News-Leader — part of the USA TODAY Network — learned how camp leaders have repeatedly disregarded red flags and prioritized ministering to those accused of wrongdoing, instead of seeking justice for victims.
