Under a bright October sky, friends, donors, and partners of Nebraska Lutheran Outdoor Ministries gathered at Carol Joy Holling Camp to celebrate an exciting milestone—the groundbreaking for the CL and Rachel Werner Crystal Springs Lake renovation.
The afternoon was filled with joy and gratitude as water splashed the soil and shovels turned the earth, symbolizing not just the start of construction, but the beginning of a new chapter in the ministry’s story.
NLOM Executive Director Jason Gerdes welcomed guests and described the $2.7 million project as “historic” for both the ministry and the people we serve. “For more than 40 years, Crystal Springs Lake has been central to the camp experience,” he said. “This project will not only restore the lake but also make it more accessible, sustainable, and welcoming for everyone.”
Jason recognized the project’s lead supporters, including CL and Rachel Werner and the CL Werner Foundation, Sid Dillon, and the Nebraska Environmental Trust; and project partners JEO Consulting Group and Yost Excavating.
“Our connection with the Werners began years ago through their support of our programs for people with physical, intellectual, and developmental disabilities,” Jason shared. “Their generosity continues to make a lasting impact—and we are honored to rename our lake as the CL and Rachel Werner Crystal Springs Lake.”
Jacob Spilker, NLOM’s Director of Development, shared remarks on behalf of Rachel Werner, President and Sustaining Board Member of the CL Werner Foundation. “The Foundation is honored to contribute to the revitalization of a space that holds such meaning for the camp and its community,” Rachel wrote. “We are especially proud to support efforts that make lake access inclusive for campers of all abilities. Everyone deserves the opportunity to experience the joy and freedom of being on the water.”
For decades, the lake has been central to the camp experience. It is home to canoeing adventures, moments of quiet prayer, and hands-on learning for thousands of students each year.
It’s where campers experience the beauty of creation and where sixth graders from Papillion La Vista Community Schools explore ecosystems each fall.
Matt Hilderbrand, Director of Curriculum and Elementary Education for the district, highlighted the impact of the partnership: “Outdoor education is a rite of passage in PLCS, and Carol Joy Holling Camp is an excellent facility for our staff and student experience. This program provides many students their first meaningful experience with natural spaces. Regardless of their family’s circumstances, all students have access to these unique learning opportunities.”
Tami Lewis-Ahrendt, President of the NLOM Board of Directors, reflected on the lake’s history and long-standing role in camp life. “This lake has been an integral part of camp since it was first built by volunteers and staff in 1982,” she said. “For decades, we’ve watched it slowly fill with silt and knew the time would come to act. Through the Sustaining Sacred Spaces Campaign, and with generous partners like the CL Werner Foundation, that vision is now being realized.”
Rev. Greg Berger, Assistant to the Bishop for the Nebraska Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, offered a blessing over the project, asking for God’s continued guidance and gratitude for all who made the work possible.
Following remarks, project leaders and partners gathered for a ceremonial groundbreaking and a symbolic “dewatering” moment, celebrating the project’s official start.
Construction is scheduled through 2025, with the restored lake expected to reopen in time for the 2026 summer camp season.
Once complete, CL and Rachel Werner Crystal Springs Lake will once again be a thriving space for recreation, education, and ministry.
“This project is a testament to the faithfulness and generosity of our community,” Jacob emphasized. “Your belief in this ministry and in God’s work here ensures that Faith: Alive! will continue to ripple through every camper, every student, and every guest who experiences this sacred place.”
We give thanks for every person, foundation, and congregation who helped make this dream a reality—and for the bright future that lies ahead.
