By Dani Hatfield, Director of Marketing
On a bright, breezy spring afternoon, more than 75 people gathered at Sullivan Hills Camp to celebrate the reclamation of Filsinger Pond.
Families, campers, donors, and community members filled the camp on May 2 for a day that was equal parts celebration and homecoming. During Camp Preview Day, laughter echoed across the grounds as campers roasted s’mores, created arts and crafts, paddled across the water in kayaks and paddle boats, and jumped into lively games of Gaga Ball. For many, it was a first
glimpse of camp. For others, it was a joyful return.
And at the center of it all was the pond—once again filled with water, life, and possibility.
“This has restored this ministry in such a special way,” shared Jason Gerdes, Executive Director. “People will gather around this
space for recreation, relaxation, and connection with creation and with their Creator, for generations to come.”
Just a few years ago, that future was uncertain. Due to erosion, the pond could no longer retain water and had become unusable. What followed was one of the most ambitious projects within the Sustaining Sacred Spaces Campaign: reshaping, lining, and restoring the pond so it could serve campers for years to come.
For those who know Sullivan Hills Camp well, the transformation is deeply meaningful.
“For the last several years, the pond really wasn’t usable. It’s great to see boats back on the water, kids enjoying it again, and fish in the pond.” - Zac Christensen, Site Manager
That restoration means more than just a beautiful landscape—it opens the door to experiences that shape camp in lasting ways. “This adds hours of programming that many campers haven’t experienced before,” said
Korey Breutzmann, Director of Programs. “Now we’re able to bring back kayaking, paddle boating, fishing, and even lakeside worship in a really meaningful way.”
For partners and supporters, the impact goes even deeper.
“It’s not just about the work or the water,” shared Jena Hansen of the Thomas D. Buckley Trust. “It’s about the opportunities this creates for generations of campers—to build confidence, grow in faith, and make memories that last a lifetime.”
The celebration itself reflected that spirit of community and joy. Guests enjoyed barbecue from Jimmy L’s BBQ and refreshing drinks from The Well Specialty Drinks, with blue raspberry lemonade quickly becoming a favorite.
Conversations lingered. Kids explored. Old memories were shared while new ones were being made.
As the water returns to Filsinger Pond, so too does a renewed sense of possibility. This sacred space will once again be a place where campers encounter creation, build friendships, and grow in faith.
