The Branch Magazine - Fall 2023

FALL 2023

“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing”

- John 15:5

by Dani Hatfield

Bridges allow us to travel to places we wouldn’t otherwise be able to reach.

Winter is not typically a time we encounter bridge construction, and yet we need your help to build a bridge this winter.

We need you to bridge the financial gap for more than 1,200 campers.

There’s a gap—for some campers a deep chasm— between what’s affordable for their family and what it actually costs Nebraska Lutheran Outdoor Ministries to provide a week of the safe, comprehensive, high-quality, faith-building camp experience our families trust us to provide.

“As always, excellent experience and growth with God,” Katie complimented after her middle schooler came home from camp this summer.

Dave, a first-time middle school camper parent agreed. “[My camper] and I loved the Western Town set up and common areas. You have an amazing camp!”

We have two amazing camps thanks to YOU!

It costs about $1,000 per camper to provide a week of safe, faith-building programming at Carol Joy Holling Camp. At Sullivan Hills Camp the cost is $700 per camper per week.

"This camp was so great for both our grandchildren and us. It provided bonding time and growing time with God!"

- KINnect Campers Kevin

& Cammy

We know that’s more than our campers’ families can afford. So, we ask that you, generous friends of camp, bridge the gap and subsidize the cost of each and every camper.

“Thank you so much for this opportunity,” an elementary camper parent shared with us. “I grew up going to church camp every summer through my congregation and the memories I made along with strengthening my walk in faith as a kid are priceless. I feel very blessed, and I know it’s because of the generosity of others that my girls can come to a camp centered around God’s word.”

For some, the $430 registration fee for a week at Carol Joy Holling Camp is still a hinderance. But we live into Jesus’ words in Mark chapter 10, verses 14: “Let the children come to me; do not stop them, for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs.”

Faith comes alive for God’s children—those 5 to 75—while they’re at camp.

“This camp was so great for both our grandchildren and us,” KINnect campers Kevin & Cammy shared. “It provided bonding time and growing time with God!”

We are incredibly thankful our generous friends continue to stand by our long-time promise that we will not turn away a camper for their family’s inability to pay the camp fee.

“We were able to send our sons to camp last year thanks to financial aid,” an elementary camper parent shared. “We are so thankful for this opportunity and the experience they had. They bring it up often and have a deepened trust in Jesus because of their time at camp.”

And we celebrate those who give so passionately to ensure the cost of attending Sullivan Hills Camp continues to be free!

However, none of this can continue to happen without your support.

This year, more than $223,000 in financial scholarships and discounts made camp possible for 1,287 campers.

And what about next year? The economic hardships facing camper families aren’t going away. We need to be prepared to support more campers.

We need YOU to build a bridge before the end of the year. Whether you can fill the gap and provide a $700 subsidy for a camper, provide a $430 full Campership, or provide a partial subsidy or Campership—every gift matters.

What bridge can you build?

Each and every gift makes it possible for God’s children of all ages to experience a faithbuilding experience at Carol Joy Holling and Sullivan Hills Camps.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for bringing Faith: Alive!

A CAMP CALLING:

Roger Maxon’s Career at NLOM

BY GERA SCHULTZ

Thirty-eight years ago, Roger and Terri Maxon listened as their pastor read a job description in church. It was a posting for Nebraska Lutheran Outdoor Ministries, and it outlined Roger’s professional experience as if it was written specifically for him. Roger and Terri weren’t the only ones who recognized this. After prayer and discussion, Roger applied and interviewed only to be disappointed a month later when he learned that he had been passed over for the opportunity.

It turns out that God’s plan was a little more complicated. Roger’s faith journey was just starting to evolve; he was finding more opportunities to serve and spending more time with other faithful people, including local pastors. Imagine his surprise when the opportunity at NLOM opened again two years later and Roger discovered that Pastor Mark Morgenstern had joined the team. Roger had met Mark when serving together on a Hunger Coordinator Trip. As things started to fall into place, including finishing up multiple construction projects and contracts, Roger and Terri moved their family to Carol Joy Holling Camp mid-summer.

At camp, Roger and Terri raised their three children, Eva, Nate, and Leah. The Maxon kids ate, played, learned with the campers, and treated the counselors like family. As they grew, they took on different roles at camp. At various times through the last 36 years, the whole Maxon family served at camp in some capacity.

Roger’s role at NLOM made use of all of his previous experience and education. From automotive mechanics to natural resources and wildlife management and all the maintenance and construction in between, Roger’s handiwork can be seen on all 320 acres and in every structure at Carol Joy Holling Camp, as well as many places at Sullivan Hills Camp.

Roger’s impact at camp stretches far beyond the inanimate objects. His leadership of the Buildings and Grounds team, mentorship of Summer Ministry Team members, relationship with volunteers and donors, and vision for renovations and new construction and how they can shape and grow the ministry have

created long-lasting opportunities for staff, volunteers, campers, and guests to live out their faith in these sacred spaces.

As Roger prepares for the next step on his journey, we thank him for commitment to serve here at Nebraska Lutheran Outdoor Ministries. We hope that he can look back at the place and the people and see the impact he’s had. We know that God has more in store for him.

We will be celebrating Roger! Join us for his retirement party on January 14, 2024 at Carol Joy Holling Conference & Retreat Center.

Bold Leap of Faith Makes Camp Possible for All

By Trish Haniszewski

“I like to give while I am still living to see the impact it is making on children’s lives. I love the way NLOM builds a relationship with their donors, responsibly manages their finances, and relays the results of their gifts back to donors like me.”

- Millie Howe

Millie Howe has a big heart for children.

As a young child, Millie and her family escaped World War II by fleeing their home in Latvia and coming to Lincoln, Nebraska. After living through that experience, Millie has responded with gratitude by living her life caring for others to give them opportunities.

She worked for many years as a leader for Girl Scouts, so she knows the impact a camp experience can have on a child. That’s why she’s so connected with Nebraska Lutheran Outdoor Ministries (NLOM).

Trish Haniszewski, NLOM Development Officer, met Millie a number of years ago and quickly became intrigued by her amazing story.

“She has become such an incredible friend with a huge heart —not only to camp, but to me personally,” Trish shared. “I enjoy our visits and sharing the news of what her generosity is making possible with our summer camp program and our campers.”

Millie has a strong passion for youth who have the greatest need for a meaningful life-changing camp experience. Through this passion, she worked with Trish to establish a gift of appreciated stock to send 50 children from Lincoln to Carol Joy Holling Camp each year.

“Building this program around Millie’s focus to best serve the youth of her community is our priority,” Trish confirmed.

Thanks to the generous support of many donors like Millie, NLOM has been able to expand its outreach to campers who come from a wide variety of backgrounds and life circumstances.

“Seeing these campers develop a relationship with God in the Christian atmosphere of camp is a pretty special thing,” Trish added.

“I’m just so happy to support their ministry,” Millie said. “I like to give while I am still living to see the impact it is making on children’s lives. I love the way NLOM builds a relationship with their donors, responsibly manages their finances, and relays the results of their gifts back to donors like me.”

This summer, Millie was able to visit Carol Joy Holling Camp to see the impact of her gift first-hand.

“What an amazing staff and beautiful camp,” she commented afterward. “I witnessed the planting of seeds of Christian love in the lives of so many young campers—some who have never prayed together. The happy faces and the chatter amongst the campers were such memorable experiences for this senior citizen. Thank you for giving me a beautiful day!”

We are very grateful for the wonderful partnerships in the community who continue to help us bring Faith: Alive!

Outdoor Education at Carol Joy Holling Camp

By Dennis Pope

How is your connection? No, we are not asking about your cellular connection. We are asking about your connection to the natural world and to the communities of people around us.

Camp has long been a place set apart—a place where all are welcome to stop, pause, and reflect as we seek the deeper connections that bring us value and meaning in our lives.

By allowing the time, facilities, staffing, and space, our hope is that the outdoor education programs we offer help those we serve connect and grow in their understanding of both our natural environment and with the community groups we associate with.

We know there is value in pausing at the night sky, in hearing the joyful singing of a song bird, or observing the subtle clues in the changing of the season.

We also recognize that there is meaning in having fun with our teams, families, and groups; that growing together in trust and cooperation only helps deepen the bonds of our teams and communities.

The options and choices of outdoor education activities at Carol Joy Holling Center vary greatly.

Some school groups choose to come for multiple days and get their hands dirty while exploring the lake, prairie, and forest.

Some athletic teams choose to take their skills to the next level on our high ropes team challenge course.

Youth groups enjoy working together as a group as they work to complete the activities on the low ropes course.

Some family groups want to provide a fun experience while watching different generations have fun together and ride a zip line.

Some businesses simply want to provide a fun bonding experience while walking the beautiful camp property with our geocaching program.

Although there are many differences in the options of what a group might choose, we hope the result is always the same: a greater connection to their environment, communities, and world.

What outdoor adventure would you like to have? Reach out to Dennis at DPope@NLOM.org or 402-944-2544 to schedule your time to connect.

An (un) qual Experience SUMMER CAMP WAS

By Gera Schultz

When adults drive into Carol Joy Holling Camp or Sullivan Hills Camp, they marvel at God’s beauty, soak in the atmosphere of peace, and look forward to fellowship.

What do our campers see? Do they see a world of opportunities? Are they thinking about the fun they’ll have with their friends, old and new?

They probably don’t think much about faith, but at Nebraska Lutheran Outdoor Ministries, we do.

This summer almost 1,300 campers, young, old, and everyone in between, participated in programs designed to engage them physically, mentally, and faithfully.

Every activity, from the opening big group games to S’morgasbord (a campfire celebration with music, skits, and...s’mores), offers the opportunity to move their bodies, make new friends, learn and practice social skills, and live out their faith.

Jessica, mom of an elementary camper says “Our daughter connects to God through the songs and worships at camp. Her favorite songs are ‘Sanctuary’ and ‘Radical God’.”

And of course, every song is taught with movement so campers can worship with their whole bodies!

This year, our campers learned about how we are loved from beginning to end by the Holy Trinity. Revelation 22:13 says: “I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end.”

When a camper enters any of our sacred spaces, they feel welcome and loved. They know they belong and each moment at camp is crafted to bring their faith alive.

Landen’s mom came to Carol Joy Holling Camp as a child, and at his first summer at camp Landen “learned a lot about heaven and God’s love.”

When campers first arrive at camp, they might be a little reserved and closed off. The Summer Ministry Team is trained to lead discussions and activities that put campers at ease, encouraging conversation and involvement.

You may look a photo and see campers with dirty faces and sticky hands, our team sees God’s children with hearts full of love and belonging.

Naomi says, “My camper really opened up about sharing his feelings about God and Jesus as camp went on! By the end he was volunteering to pray and answering questions in Bible study!” What a great reminder of the power of studying and worshiping together.

Now that the bunks have been cleaned and the equipment has been stored, we look ahead and prepare to welcome campers back, reflecting on the laughter and stories from this year as we lean into God’s plan for 2024.

It’s all thanks to you. Your continuous generosity brings faith alive at camp.

Camp by the Numbers

1,287 Campers

44 Summer Ministry Team members

318 Trail Rides

101 Camperships $26,037 in Camperships

4,767 Sno Kones Served

215 Mud Hikes

1,463 Marshmallows Roasted

70 Bibles Gifted

Our Summer Staff are SUPERpeople

By Dani Hatfield

For 10 weeks this past summer, 44 young adults traded their backpacks, laptops, and busy class schedules to become super heroes for 1,287 campers.

Some still carried backpacks, but they were filled with Bible study materials, a first-aid kit, stuffed animal, stickers, and at least one pair of extra socks. They traded their busy class schedules for days filled with hiking, horseback riding, worship, and s’mores.

And while many of those days were long and hot, they were as sweet as the sno kones!

“Being a member of the Summer Ministry Team is an incredible experience,” Hannah Donnell reflected. “You get to be part of a supportive community, make lifelong friendships, and have a positive impact on campers’ lives. It’s a chance to grow in your faith, learn leadership skills, and create unforgettable memories!”

For those of us outside of the Summer Ministry Team, it’s incredible to see how these young adults live out their faith in ways that show everyone—campers and peers—that they belong and are unconditionally loved by God.

“The community was very inclusive,” Doug Schafer shared. “It just felt like a safe home.”

“Summer staff was a community where I felt I could be unapologetically myself,” Hailey Anderson agreed. From silly songs to deep conversations about God, the faith growth that happens at camp, isn’t happening only in campers.

“I’ve always been unsure on my faith and was hoping that maybe I’d have some sort of epiphany while being at camp,” Hailey continued. “That didn’t happen, but I know I can’t expect it to become

clear all at once. I did however, feel more comfort and satisfaction with not knowing. I focused more on reflection and ways to feel God’s presence in nature.”

“Before coming out to camp, I wasn’t really appreciating what I had and felt like God was far away,” McCartney Fitzgerald shared. “I learned to appreciate what I have and be more thankful this summer through God, and I felt like I got closer to God and nature.”

While sharing the Good News, they can’t help but be transformed themselves.

“I grew in my faith by learning, teaching, and experiencing God’s love and word at camp,” Zoe Hoffmeyer observed. “And it was pretty cool to see how the campers grew as well. Some of them hadn’t read the Bible or been to church much. Sharing their first Bible study sparked something in them and they didn’t want to stop ready or learning about His word.”

Hannah shared a similar experience: “My faith grew this summer as I witnessed a TrailHead camper’s faith grow. He started off unsure and hesitant. However, by day two during First Word, Bible study, and worship, he began to ask questions. He requested a Bible and started to read stories at night to seek answers, and develop a relationship with God. Near the end of camp, the camper would request his favorite worship songs and offer to pray at each prayer pole. It was incredible to see faith growing and working in this camper’s life, and watching his curiosity motivate him.”

And, like campers, the summer staff aren’t leaving their faith at camp. They’re living it out as they head home, back to college, or into the workforce.

Working at camp is “out of this world,” Zoe explained. And at the same time, it’s of this world because “what we learn at camp we are encouraged to make part of our everyday lives as well.”

While they may have left their capes behind as they ventured back into the “real world,” these heroes will forever be incredible, faithfilled role models to this year’s campers.

Know someone who would love working at camp?

The Summer Ministry Team is a powerful group of young leaders who are changing the world by working hard, talking faith, and caring for others. This super team provides leadership and care for campers at Carol Joy Holling and Sullivan Hills Camps.

Benefits:

ب A full-time, paid summer job

ب All meals and on-site housing included

ب Expanded network and community

ب Making a real difference guiding youth and families at camp and beyond

Skills Obtained:

ب Leadership

ب Public Speaking

ب Interpersonal Communication Facilitation

ب

Problem-solving

ب Customer Service Working with a Team

ب Initiative

ب And More!

Positions Available for Summer Ministry Team:

ب Group Leader

ب Can become Certified in: Lifeguard

ب Equestrian Outdoor Education

ب Challenge Course Facilitation

ب Healthcare Intern

ب Marketing Intern

Summer Ministry Team members must be 18 years or older, or have completed Leadership Camp.

If you know someone who would make a great fit for this opportunity, please nominate them at NLOM.org/nominate.

Applications can be found at NLOM.org/smt. Contact Bailey Neitzel, Summer Camp Director at BNeitzel@NLOM.org or 402-944-2544 for more information or with any questions.

FAITH: NOURISHING OUR A

LESSON FROM NATURE

BY KOREY BREUTZMANN

Fall at camp means that I get the opportunity to get out of the office and out to our ropes courses most weeks. Last week, I had a particularly memorable day on the course. It was one of those fall days when you show up in the morning to set up in a winter coat and stocking cap. Once lunch rolls around, you have shed most layers down to shorts and a t-shirt and wondering how you got to that point in the day. We all know those days. We all also know what else comes on those warm

fall days. Let’s talk about the Orius insidiosus, or more commonly known, the minute pirate bug.

These small little black bugs are around us from spring to fall, whether we realize it or not. On warm fall days, they make their presence known by biting humans. The worst part is, there is currently no insect repellent that works against them. So why do they bite us only in fall, even though they are around all spring and summer as well?

The purpose behind the bite is all about survival. The minute pirate bug feeds most of the year on thrips, aphids, leafhoppers, spider mites, whiteflies, caterpillars, and the eggs of other insects. In fall, that food supply has dwindled and either no longer exists, or has gone into their winter homes until next spring. So, the minute pirate bug starts biting at things that it normally wouldn’t, all to try and survive with one last meal before winter. When their life water goes dry, they lash out to try to get whatever they can just to stay alive. Doesn’t this sound exactly like our faith?

Camp, whether that be summer camp, a weekend retreat, or even just an hour visit into the woods, can be a great life source for our faith. Often times, guests will leave feeling filled and renewed with the Holy Spirit and their spiritual cuppie will be overflowing.

But what happens to us when we feel drained, or like we haven’t been filled with the Living Water of Christ in a few months? We, too, will lash out and start trying to find things to fill that void, even though we know they will not help us. Minute pirate bugs gain nothing from biting humans, but it is a natural reaction to just try to find any life source they can to get fed.

When we are spiritually hungry, what do we turn to instead of Christ? What do we try to subsidize Jesus with that we know in the long run, will not keep us fed? Take some time to reflect and refocus this fall season. When we feel empty, don’t be like the minute pirate bug lashing out to things that won’t sustain you. Instead, turn to Christ who assures us that with the water He gives, we will never go thirsty again.

It’s double the fun with TWO Camp Classics!

The Kearney Camp Classic was held at Meadowlark Hills on August 18, with 56 golfers. On September 22, 136 golfers joined us at the Ashland Golf Club for the Carol Joy Holling Camp Classic.

These golf outings included fun games and competitions in addition to the 18-hole scramble. Golfers enjoyed delicious Hy-Vee packed lunches at the start of the events, then connected with old and new friends after their round. Golfers were treated to dinner after the outing while they awaited the results of the tournament and raffle drawings.

Fun and games aside, we raised more than $88,000 to support summer camping programs at Carol Joy Holling and Sullivan Hills Camps. These funds are essential to the NLOM experience of living out faith in ways that show everyone they belong and are unconditionally loved by God.

“EXPLORE!”-ING FALL AT CAMP

By Laura Stalder

Fall Explore! Day was an exciting day for elementary-aged campers filled with new friends, new experiences, and of course, learning more about God.

Twenty-seven campers, of which twelve were firsttime campers, spent Saturday, October 7 at Carol Joy Holling Camp.

Explore! Day campers spent time playing camp games, making slime, encouraging each other on the Forest Zipline, hiking around God’s creation, and studying the Bible to learn more about God’s love.

After a day spent in community learning, growing, and encouraging, we ended in a campfire worship with families.

If this sounds like a great day to your camper, save the date for our Spring Explore! Day on April 20.

JAY NOVICKI TRAVELING DAY CAMP

BY JESSICA WELTZ

In August, we traveled to the Mosaic campus in Beatrice, where we led 50 individuals through craft making, inflatable archery, and worship. Together we enjoyed a camp classic treat, Sno Kones.

BY JESSICA WELTZ

In September, we traveled to one of the Mosaic day hubs in Omaha, where we played parachute games, experienced dry land fishing, made fishy crafts, and shared hot dogs and s’mores with about 35 participants.

We are in our second year offering the Jay Novicki Traveling Day Camp program to the communities around Lincoln and Omaha. With each Jay Novicki Traveling Day Camp, the host organization can choose from two tiers, each providing 2 to 3 hours of programming. Activities may include adaptive archery, rhythm exploration, creative arts, outdoor education, and more!

Each individual who attends a Jay Novicki Traveling Day Camp leaves with a special blue cuppie with the Jay Novicki Day Camp logo.

As this amazing program continues to grow, we invite you to share this opportunity with your community.

To learn more about the Jay Novicki Traveling Day Camp program, contact Jessica Weltz, Adult Program Specialist, at JWeltz@NLOM.org or 402-944-2544.

WE NEED TO GROW THE HERD!

Many Carol Joy Holling campers have never had the opportunity to interact with a horse before coming to camp. Interacting with these beautiful creatures has an impact on how campers see the majesty of God’s creation.

We run two barns during summer camp — at Ranch Camp and The Grove.

Because several horses have retired over the past few years, the Carol Joy Holling Camp herd needs to grow by seven horses before next summer.

Who do you know with a horse to donate or sell?

Horses trained for 4H make the best camp horses. Can you ask your local 4H chapter if anyone is graduating from horse showmanship? We’d love to talk with them to see if their horse could be a good fit for Carol Joy Holling Camp.

For more information, contact Roger Maxon, Director of Buildings & Grounds, at RMaxon@NLOM.org or 402-944-2544.

Why Volunteer at Nebraska Lutheran Outdoor Ministries?

By Lisa Stirtz

Nebraska Lutheran Outdoor Ministries continues to expand and grow our ministry in many ways. We love to offer our services to our guests, campers, and friends.

Sullivan Hills Camp and Carol Joy Holling Center are both great places to spend some time, meet new friends, experience new adventures, and enjoy beautiful scenery.

Our vision is to live out faith in ways everyone can feel they belong and are unconditionally loved by God. We want all people who come to our camps to feel welcome, and one way we accomplish this is with the help of many gracious volunteers.

A group of volunteers share their time at our Swanson Retreat Center at Carol Joy Holling Center. These volunteers are the smiling and helpful faces when our guests come to check in for a retreat or attend a meeting.

If greeting and hosting aren’t for you, there are many volunteer opportunities available:

• Count, measure, and photograph all quilts for the annual Quilt Auction

• Prepare mailings by sorting, stuffing, and stamping envelopes

• Pray for our Summer Ministry Team and send encouragement throughout the summer

• Mow, trim, pull weeds, and help with other buildings and grounds projects

Recently, I asked a couple volunteers if they would encourage others to volunteer at NLOM.

“It’s been one of the most satisfying experiences in my retirement,” one told me. “It gives me flexibility that I need now and still provides me with fulfilling work.”

Another shared that they appreciate that there are so many things to do, and it’s satisfying to help others have fun and grow.

If any of these opportunities sound like a good fit for you, we’d love to have you! And, you’re welcome to bring a friend, small group, or church group with you.

To learn about current volunteer opportunities visit NLOM.org/volunteer or contact Lisa Stirtz, Volunteer Coordinator, at LStirtz@NLOM.org or 402-944-2544.

LEAVING A LEGACY OF andFaithLove

By Trish Haniszewski

When thinking about their legacy, the Akerson family drew on their faith and what has brought them joy as a family; the choice was easy— Nebraska Lutheran Outdoor Ministries.

Jeff and Tanny Akerson and their family have always deeply loved NLOM and their experiences at Carol Joy Holling and Sullivan Hills Camps.

Their children, Amy and Adam, were among the first campers at Sullivan Hills Camp. Amy became a Summer Ministry Team member and eventually NLOM’s year-round Volunteer Coordinator.

Now Jeff and Tanny’s grandchildren attend camp.

Seeing firsthand the impact attending camp had on their children and grandchildren, Jeff and Tanny have long had a vision of a world where all youth can participate in camp, grow in their faith, and become stronger leaders in the church and community.

This vision, coupled with the experiences Sullivan Hills and Carol Joy Holling Camps have provided the entire family, offering a legacy gift to NLOM an easy decision.

“We think camp is important for all children, especially those not brought up in an environment where they learn about a God who loves them,” Tanny said.

“Camp is where they can experience God’s unconditional love, and their faith can come alive in personal and profound ways. By including NLOM in our estate plan, we pray for an impact on the lives of future generations of children who need desperately to know God’s love.”

Because of their legacy gift, Jeff and Tanny are a part of Club 10:14, NLOM’s heritage society. Club 10:14 includes caring, faith-filled individuals from across the country helping NLOM fulfill its mission and ministry.

The name Club 10:14 comes from Mark 10:14, where Jesus says, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the Kingdom of God belongs to such as these.”

“Being a place where faith comes alive for camp, conference, and retreat guests is a special joy for us and our mission,” Dave shared. “It is a blessing for us to continue spreading God’s love for many years.”

Designating a legacy gift to NLOM is much more than leaving a financial contribution; it is ensuring that others can strengthen their faith; experience hope and joy, and enjoy nature in a new and beautiful way for generations to come.

Your gift is indeed helping faith come alive.

Tanny said it best when discussing their legacy gift and the far-reaching impact of supporting NLOM, “If you want to give money to your kids, then give it to NLOM. It is for your kids, your grandkids, and everyone’s kids.”

NLOM and Lutheran Giving, an agency funded by the serving arms of the Nebraska Synod ELCA, welcomes your partnership and looks forward to working together to discover new ways to tap into people’s passions and fulfill their charitable dreams.

For more information, Contact Dave Coker at DCoker@NLOM.org or 402-944-2544.

Dave Coker, NLOM Special Gifts Officer and former Executive Director, and his wife Karen are also part of Club 10:14.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS & LEADERSHIP

Thank you to the many people who volunteered their time and talents to guide the mission and ministry of Nebraska Lutheran Outdoor Ministries in 2023:

NLOM Board of Directors

Rev. Kris Bohac, President

Tami Lewis-Ahrendt, Vice President

L. James Wright, Secretary

Scott McCollister, Treasurer

Carolyn Blobaum

Wendy DeBoer

Dale Fornander

Rev. Jerry Gilbreath

Bishop Scott Johnson

Dea. Coco Lyons

Emily Meehan

Rev. Michael Peck

Ted Swanson

Sarah Willson

NLOM Directors

Jason Gerdes, Executive Director

Korey Breutzmann, Programs

Dani Hatfield, Marketing

Tara Knudson Carl, Ph.D., Operations

Roger Maxon, Buildings & Grounds

Lloyd Wagnitz, Development

OUR GUESTS SAID:

“

The staff was very positive, respectful, and helpful. The activities were age appropriate. The kids all agreed that they

had a great experience.”

- St. Matthew the Evangelist School

“

Everyone was so friendly and helpful. Dana went out of her way to serve us, the hosts were so helpful and accommodating, and Dennis with the low ropes course was fantastic.”

- Perry Family

“

Carol Joy Holling Center is the perfect space for our new [Leadership Omaha] class to accelerate the process of establishing relationships, building trust, and engaging in meaningful conversation.”

- Greater Omaha Chamber

“

All the staff was very welcoming and helpful. The food was very good with healthy options available.”

- Anonymous | Women’s Retreat

THRIVENT CHOICE DOLLARS

Thrivent’s Choice Dollars continue to bless the ministries of Carol Joy Holling Camp & Sullivan Hills Camp.

Last year, we received nearly $13,000 through the Thrivent Choice program! Your gift makes a real impact on the lives of campers and ensures that every camper who wants to come to camp has the opportunity. Thank you for designating your Choice Dollars to camp!

Remember, the deadline for donating your 2023 Choice Dollars is March 31, 2024.

After the deadline you will not be able to designate your 2023 Choice Dollars to the non-profit organization of your choice.

For more information, visit NLOM.org/alternative-giving or call our Development Team at 402-944-2544.

HIGH SCHOOL RETREAT

JANUARY 19 - 21, 2024

CJHCenter.org/hs-retreat

MARCH 8 - 9, 2024

CJHCenter.org/ms-lock-in

lock in high high School School

MARCH 22 - 23, 2024

CJHCenter.org/hs-lock-in

APRIL 13 - 14, 2024

CJHCenter.org/mother-daughter

QUILT AUCTION

JULY 27, 2024

CJHCenter.org/quilt-auction

A Day Retreat at Carol Joy Holling Camp for Elementary Kids

APRIL 20, 2024

CJHCenter.org/explore

AUGUST 16, 2024

CJHCenter.org/kearneygolf

APRIL 20, 2024

CJHCenter.org/momsday-retreat

SEPTEMBER 20, 2024

CJHCenter.org/cjhgolf

JAY NOVICKI DAY CAMP

MARCH 19, 2024

APRIL 17, 2024

MAY 7, 2024

CJHCenter.org/jaynovicki

SUMMER CAMP 2024

JUNE 2- JULY 25, 2024

CarolJoyHolling.org SullivanHills.org

JUNE 14 - 16, 2024

CJHCenter.org/silent

APRIL 6, 2024

CJHCenter.org/gala

THE HEART OF THE

OCTOBER 5, 2024

CJHCenter.org/explore

OCTOBER 18 - 20, 2024

CJHCenter.org/couples

JUNE 27, 2024

CJHCenter.org/heart-of-the-hills

MIDDLE SCHOOL RETREAT

NOVEMBER 8-10, 2024

CJHCenter.org/ms-retreat

A

Retreat at Carol Joy Holling Camp for Elementary Kids