By Lisa Stirtz, Volunteer Coordinator
Volunteer (noun): a person who freely offers to take part in an enterprise or undertake a task (Merriam-Webster)
The spirit of volunteerism is seen in so many characteristics. From being joyful and happy to help; to making work lighter for others. From jumping in at a moment’s notice; to loving and being passionate about the organization they are helping. Volunteers are the constant that help to keep camp going. The joy of volunteerism is a great thing to get to witness.
Retired Pastor Donna Durrette of Eagle, Neb. is a shining example of volunteerism. For the past three years, Donna has given her time to come and help out at camp. Her first experience with camp was bringing kids for confirmation camp. Through seeing the joy the children experienced as well as how their faith grew and changed at camp, Pastor Donna knew she wanted to be a part of our amazing mission.
“Volunteering is a good way to learn more about camp and helps your congregation understand the benefits to children.” Pastor Donna noted. “I can also see the work the staff does and how that makes a difference in camper’s lives.
Pastor Lance and Lora Ferguson of Raymond, Neb. started with camping at the Family Campground with their kids. Their daughters became Summer Ministry Team members, and Lora started attending the Unfinished Objects Retreat (UFO) and other retreats.
“We started this adventure in 1993, and it has grown and we have gotten more involved all the time,” stated Pastor Lance. Pastor Lance will be our camp Chaplain again this summer. Last summer, he helped the campers and summer staff grow in their faith each day. Lora is on the Quilt Auction team, getting quilts ready for auction, part of the team that made quilted wall hangings for Living Water Retreat House, and also helps with mailings. Pastor Lance shared, “It fills our bucket! We love the drive to camp. We are serving with great people and helping a place we care about A LOT. We love the jobs we do, and it definitely fills our bucket every time we go.”
It’s always a joy to have volunteers come to camp and to listen to the conversations they have with each other. Sometimes they even find they have connections with each other.
Interested in volunteering? Reach out to Lisa to find out more: LStirtz@NLOM.org or 402-944-2544.
