The birth of SWOKE happened in February of 2019 while Sean Laudeman and Brian Geeding were chaperoning an 8th grade trip to Camp Joy. They were sipping coffee after going to bed at 2:00 am, on the first of three nights.
Thirteen 8th grade boys, that they shared a cabin with, wanted to do an exercise circuit every half hour for as long as they could last. Sean and Brian were “convinced” to be a part of the circuit. Legend has it that Sean and Brian outlasted the boys.
This may have been the start of the name and idea of SWOKE, but the real start happened when Sean and Brian met in 2014. Brian was Youth Minister for St. Mary Parish while Sean taught junior high religion at St. Mary School.
Their friendship and chemistry were cemented by realizing that they both shared the personality trait of being childlike adults, while also desiring the deep dive into the spiritual world. They both yearned for a world more authentic, joy-filled and present. These personality traits were in line with the desires of most children, whether they could name it or not.
After selling out two years of summer camp in 2019 and 2020 Sean and Brian knew they were meant to take this dream to the next level. Their mission was to fight for and advocate for the well-being of kids at all costs. They received their Ohio Non-Profit Status and then their Federal Non-Profit Status (501c3).
SWOKE believes it can be a way forward for how schools and parishes look at youth ministry. SWOKE is the bridge between education and spirituality.
Come walk with us. It is certain to be an adventure. We will find what we are seeking, together.
