Making a monthly donation has been a great opportunity to
maintain my commitment to Cedarkirk, share my gratitude
for the impact it has had on my life, and invest in its future.
Cedarkirk is my favorite place, and has been for 20 years now. My Cedarkirk story began as a Senior High Leadership (SHL) camper during the summers of 2005-2007, continuing as a Counselor in 2009 and 2010, and then as a Unit Coordinator in 2011.
My experience in SHL was transformative. Spending two weeks in such a special place, surrounded by strangers who became lifelong friends, was incredible. I enjoyed time with the junior campers, leading worship and song times. I also loved playing knockout, the dishroom singalongs and the deep conversations that come more naturally at camp, where the distractions of the “real world” aren’t so loud.
Being a counselor brought even deeper fulfillment. I felt a deep community with the other members of staff, and was immensely grateful for time to focus on the campers and my faith. Cedarkirk provided a sense of assurance, safety, and belonging that was invaluable during my high school and college years.
I’m also thankful that Cedarkirk has been a family affair. My brother, Kyle, and sister, Claire, were both campers. Claire continued to serve as a counselor, UC, and in the Discernment Through Service program. I love that it’s a place of wonderful memories for all of us that we continue to share.
In February 2024, I welcomed my first son, Chip, who has been the greatest blessing. Though we now live farther from Cedarkirk, I hope to be able to share it with him so he can also experience the peace and joy I’ve treasured there. I think of my time at Cedarkirk often and want to ensure it continues as part of Chip’s childhood and for generations beyond that.
Making a monthly donation has been a great opportunity to maintain my commitment to Cedarkirk, share my gratitude for the impact it has had on my life, and invest in its future. Since I don’t have to remember to make a donation each year, I can focus on remembering the blessings of camp instead. Thank you, Cedarkirk!