KAIO 2026 THEME
REGISTRATION
Registration Fees
Early BirdBest Value
Deadline: May 31, 2026
$200
Late Registration
Deadline: June 14, 2026
$240
Refund Policy
No refunds after June 16, 2026
What's Included
Housing
On-campus accommodations
All Meals
Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks
All Sessions & Activities
Worship, seminars, and small groups
Location: Illinois Wesleyan University
110-112 E Beecher St, Bloomington, IL 61701
Parking: Complimentary on-site
NOTE FOR YOUTH LEADERS
While there is no separate leader track, leaders are welcome to join worship, seminars, and meals. Small groups are reserved for students and their KAIO counselors. We kindly ask leaders to entrust their students to their small groups during the conference.
SCHEDULE
July 20-23, 2026
Monday
July 20
Tuesday
July 21
Wednesday
July 22
Thursday
July 23
* Schedule is subject to change. All times are in Central Time (CT).
PARTICIPANT GUIDELINES
Behavioral Expectations
- •Respect Others: Treat everyone with kindness and consideration, including fellow students, leaders, and retreat staff.
- •Respect Property: Take care of all facilities, equipment, and personal belongings. Do not damage or misuse property.
- •Respect the Schedule: Follow the conference schedule by fully participating in all planned activities and staying engaged.
- •Cell Phone Policy: Allowed but discouraged during sessions.
Consequences for Misbehavior
- Verbal warning
- Loss of privileges
- Parent contact
- Dismissal
Zero Tolerance
Drugs, alcohol, vaping devices, or weapons result in immediate removal.
Packing Checklist
- Bible
- Notebook & writing utensils
- Sleeping bag & pillow
- Towel & toiletries
- Modest, appropriate clothing
- Extra shoes (for weather)
- Warm layers (indoor A/C runs cool)
SPEAKERS
Rev. KJ Kim
Senior Pastor, Covenant Fellowship Church
Pastor KJ served as an associate pastor at Covenant Fellowship Church for 13 years before stepping into the role of senior pastor in 2021. He earned a B.A. in Math Education from the University of Illinois and an M.Div. from Covenant Theological Seminary. Before entering ministry, he worked as a middle school math teacher and is now an ordained Teaching Elder in the PCA. Pastor KJ and his wife Susie have four children.
Edwin Lee
Ruling Elder, Covenant Fellowship Church
Eddie serves as a ruling elder at Covenant Fellowship Church and brings nearly 15 years of experience in youth ministry, along with a heart for raising up the next generation. He studied Accountancy and Finance at the University of Illinois and currently works as Assistant Director of Information Solutions for the University of Illinois System. Eddie and his wife live in Champaign with their three children.
TBD
Speaker
Additional speaker information coming soon.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Students entering grades 7-13 are welcome to register.
Yes! Lodging and meals are included, though there is no dedicated leader programming.
No, but we encourage carpooling with your church or nearby churches.
Yes! A separate food bar is available. Please note allergies on your registration form.
Housing, all meals, and full access to worship, seminars, and student small groups.
Refund requests must be submitted before June 16, 2026. No refunds after this date.
Yes, but phones are discouraged during sessions to help students stay present.
There are no volunteer opportunities available at this time.
Have more questions? Contact us at kaioconference@gmail.com