The Renee Smajstrla Memorial Fund

The Renee Smajstrla Memorial Fund was established in loving memory of Renee Smajstrla — a joyful, spirited young girl whose bright life was tragically cut short in the Guadalupe River flood on July 4, 2025. She was just 8 years old.

At the time, Renee was doing what she loved most: spending her days at Camp Mystic, surrounded by friends, faith, and the beauty of nature. 

She was truly living her best life.

To honor Renee’s vibrant spirit and her deep love for camp, her parents, Calvin and Catherine Smajstrla, created this fund to give other children the opportunity to experience the same joy, community, and spiritual growth that defined her time at Christian camp.

The fund is dedicated to helping children across Texas attend faith-based camps and retreat programs that nurture their hearts, minds, and faith.  Areas of focus include:

• Providing financial assistance to camps 
• Funding scholarships for campers 
• Supporting leadership development programs 
• Enhancing camp facilities 
• Fostering spiritual growth, community, and outdoor education
   

Renee’s light continues to shine through the children who, because of this fund, will experience the same life-changing moments she treasured.

We invite you to carry forward Renee’s legacy by supporting her fund. Your generosity will give other children the chance to feel the same joy and wonder that lit up her life — ensuring her spirit continues to touch hearts for years to come.