Youth camps are an important part of my history and my present. Without my years of experience as a camper and as staff, I would not be nearly as cool as I am today! I started attending Michigan Youth Camps as a junior high camper in 1996 and went every summer through senior high. It was the highlight of my year! Special memories, lifelong friendships, strong character development and spiritual growth were only some of the benefits. I may not actually 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳 all my memories from 1996, but I know past-me loved every minute of it! Attending camps also set me on a path to attending Graceland University, where I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communications: Publication Design. While attending college and after, I began learning what it means to be a camp counselor and leader, and how to create the safe, fun, unique, and welcoming environment for youth that I was blessed with as a kid. I know firsthand the staff involved with Michigan Youth Camps are passionate about facilitating an impactful experience for campers every year.

I have been on staff at four different camps by age-group, and I must say, Junior Camp is my favorite! (Not only because it’s the camp with the earliest bedtime.) Having the opportunity to direct Blue Water Junior Camp allows me to continue doing something important in my community, and to start building the foundation for our youngest campers as they continue their journey through youth camps. I look forward to meeting and getting to know campers this summer!