BEACHREACH HITS HIGH-WATER MARK
Baptist and Reflector
The 2026 version of BeachReach was marked by record-high participation, with more than 2,000 students and leaders taking part. The unique ministry takes place in Panama City Beach, Fla., where Baptist Collegiate Ministry and church based college ministry students utilize simple acts of kindness to share the gospel with “spring breakers.” Thousands of gospel conversations are sparked through acts of service — such as free shuttle rides — along with other evangelistic methods.
2026 BeachReach totals from March 5-27:
- Passengers transported through BeachReach’s free shuttle service – 25,421
- Professions of faith and spiritual decisions made among spring breakers – 863
- Gospel conversations sparked through BeachReach’s acts of service and evangelism – 15,002
- Individuals prayed with, throughout the three-week BeachReach ministry – 19,953
- Record-setting number of students and leaders participating this year – 2,000-plus
From all over the state
This year’s BeachReach ministry event had a record-high 2,000-plus participants. The group included 294 students and leaders from the state of Tennessee, who represented nine different colleges, universities and church based collegiate ministries from the state:
- Belle Air Baptist
- Middle Tenn. State University
- University of Memphis
- University of Tenn.-Knoxville
- East Tenn. State University
- Tenn. Tech University
- University of Tenn.-Chattanooga
- University of Tenn.-Martin
- Vanderbilt University
BCM students pose for a photo in Panama City, Fla., during 2026 BeachReach. The students were among the group of 2,000-plus who served this year as part of the three-week evangelism event hosted by Baptist Collegiate Ministry. Beach Reach provides opportunities for students to share the gospel with “spring breakers” by offering free shuttle rides, free meals and other activities. This year’s Beach Reach opened the door for nearly 500 professions of faith.
