The Branch Magazine - Fall 2025 by Carol Joy Holling Camp

FALL 2025

“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

A YEAR OF GROWTH AND GR AT ITUDE

By Jason Gerdes, Executive Director

At Nebraska Lutheran Outdoor Ministries, faith is never something passive. It moves. It acts. It welcomes. It builds. And in a year filled with both growth and gratitude, we have seen faith in motion every single day.

This past summer was one of the strongest we have experienced in at least five years. We welcomed more campers than last year, and our retention rate year-over-year reached a record high for our organization.

Families returned with siblings and friends, and campers who were once timid first-timers came back with confidence, ready for more. When we talk about ministry rooted in hospitality and belonging, this is what it looks like—campers who simply can’t wait to return.

Much of that success was made possible through the Sustaining Sacred Spaces campaign. Because of your generosity, every camper had a place to rest comfortably, connect deeply, and feel at home. The renovated cabins at The Springs gave our middle school campers a space filled with warmth and care, and the new yurts at The Grove quickly became gathering places where community and friendship flourished. Spaces matter. Hospitality matters. This year, we felt the difference.

Now, as we look toward the year ahead, our mission continues to move forward through our year-end campaign: Faith in Motion. This campaign is centered on meeting the real and growing needs of the people we serve.

EVERY CAMPER. EVERY STORY.

handicap-accessible door openers so campers with physical disabilities can navigate our buildings with greater independence and dignity.

These changes may seem small, but to a camper who can now open a door on their own, it says, “You belong here.”

Faith in Motion will also support the continued growth of our Outdoor Education program. New paddle boats and learning elements will give students hands-on opportunities to explore creation, study wildlife, and see the world beyond classroom walls. In our equine program, the growing camper numbers means it’s time to grow our herd of horses.

I am grateful to share that we have an extraordinary partner in this work. The Rupert Dunklau Foundation is providing a dollar-for-dollar matching gift up to $100,000. Every gift to Faith in Motion will be doubled, and together, our donors and the Foundation will raise $200,000 to help meet these needs.

ministry with boldness.

On behalf of our staff, board, and campers, thank you. Because of you, Faith is Alive.

Visit NLOM.org/give or scan the QR code to give online, or you can mail cash or checks (made to NLOM) in the envelope provided in this edition of The Branch magazine.

The Power of Camp: Growing Faith and Friendships That Last

By Bailey Neitzel, Summer Camp Director

We all have people in our lives that will leave a lasting impact: a neighbor, a teacher, a childhood friend or maybe even a camp counselor.

“My daughter [Norah] went to camp with two friends from school and met up with other girls she met at camp last year.” Shared Suzanne. “They already picked a week for next summer. Their village is even getting together here in Omaha to hang out.”

The friendships built out on the lake boating, around the campfire, and up on high ropes don’t end when the week is done. Many of the friendships built at camp are rekindled in future summers when campers return and reconnect.

Every year, bunkmate requests come in from campers who want to room with friends they have met in previous summers—friends who’ve already agreed to return the same week so they can pick up right where they left off, making new lasting memories together.

Ranch camper Graycen’s mother shared, “She got to meet up with a friend she met at camp two years prior. They cried after closing program saying goodbye.”

There is something different and truly special about the bonds and friendships created in this place set apart. And members of the Summer Ministry Team experience it too.

Though many attend schools and universities in different states, they return to camp each summer to reconnect with one another and their beloved campers.

“My daughter loved seeing her counselor from prior summers at camp who still remembers her name!”

Gonzalo, "G," has been praised by many camper families for the lasting impact he has made during their campers’ week at camp. When G starting working on the Summer Ministry Team in 2024, it was the encouragement of a soccer coach that helped get him to apply. After two summers on staff, he continues coming back to not only continue building his own positive relationships, but to also guide others in developing meaningful community.

“The friendships I’ve built at camp are everlasting,” G said. “When you go to camp you build this community that is so good and makes you want to work and be better every single day.”

The friendships built on and around faith are what set camp apart as a truly unique experience for both staff and campers. As G reflected, seeing “these kids grow together in loving the Lord, it is a one of a kind experience.” Like many summer staff before him, he knows the difference he makes as a group leader in the lives of so many campers, and that’s what keeps him coming back for another summer on staff.

"THE FRIENDSHIPS I'VE BUILT AT CAMP ARE EVERLASTING."

- G, smt member

Begins: Groundbreaking for the Crystal Springs Lake Renovation

By Dani Hatfield, Director of Marketing

gathered at Carol Joy Holling Camp to celebrate an exciting milestone—the groundbreaking for the CL and Rachel Werner Crystal Springs Lake renovation.

The afternoon was filled with joy and gratitude as water splashed the soil and shovels turned the earth, symbolizing not just the start of construction, but the beginning of a new chapter in the ministry’s story.

NLOM Executive Director Jason Gerdes welcomed guests and described the $2.7 million project as “historic” for both the ministry and the people we serve. “For more than 40 years, Crystal Springs Lake has been central to the camp experience,” he said. “This project will not only restore the lake, but also make it more accessible, sustainable, and welcoming for everyone.”

Jason recognized the project’s lead supporters, including CL and Rachel Werner and the CL Werner Foundation, Sid Dillon, and the Nebraska Environmental Trust; and project partners JEO Consulting Group and Yost Excavating.

“Our connection with the Werners began years ago through their support of our programs for people with physical, intellectual, and developmental disabilities,” Jason shared. “Their generosity continues to make a lasting impact— and we are honored to rename our lake as the CL and Rachel Werner Crystal Springs Lake.”

Jacob Spilker, NLOM’s Director of Development, shared remarks on behalf of Rachel Werner, President and Sustaining Board Member of the CL Werner Foundation. “The Foundation is honored to contribute to the revitalization of a space that holds such meaning for the camp and its community,” Rachel wrote. “We are especially proud to support efforts that make lake access inclusive for campers of all abilities. Everyone deserves the opportunity to experience the joy and freedom of being on the water.”

For decades, the lake has been central to the camp experience. It is home to canoeing adventures, moments of quiet prayer, and handson learning for thousands of kids each year.

It’s where campers experience the beauty of creation and where sixth graders from Papillion La Vista Community Schools explore ecosystems each fall.

Matt Hilderbrand, Director of Curriculum and Elementary Education for the district, highlighted the impact of the partnership: “Outdoor education is a rite of passage in PLCS, and Carol Joy Holling Camp is an excellent facility for our staff and student experience. This program provides many students their first meaningful experience with natural spaces. Regardless of their family’s circumstances, all students have access to these unique learning opportunities.”

Tami Lewis-Ahrendt, President of the NLOM Board of Directors, reflected on the lake’s history and long-standing role in camp life. “This lake has been an integral part of camp since it was first built by volunteers and staff in 1982,” she said. “For decades, we’ve watched it slowly fill with silt and knew the time would come to act. Through the Sustaining Sacred Spaces Campaign, and with generous partners like the CL Werner Foundation, that vision is now being realized.”

Rev. Greg Berger, Assistant to the Bishop for the Nebraska Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, offered a blessing over the project, asking for God’s continued guidance and gratitude for all who made the work possible.

Following remarks, project leaders and partners gathered for a ceremonial groundbreaking and a symbolic “dewatering” moment, celebrating the project’s official start.

Construction is scheduled through 2025, with the restored lake expected to reopen in time for the 2026 summer camp season.

Once complete, CL and Rachel Werner Crystal Springs Lake will once again be a thriving space for recreation, education, and ministry.

“This project is a testament to the faithfulness and generosity of our community,” Jacob emphasized. “Your belief in this ministry and in God’s work here ensures that Faith: Alive! will continue to ripple through every camper, every student, and every guest who experiences this sacred place.”

We give thanks for every person, foundation, and congregation who helped make this dream a reality—and for the bright future that lies ahead.

Rising Waters, Renewed Spirit: Donors Help Restore Filsinger Pond

To learn more or make a gift toward the Filsinger Pond Project, visit, NLOM.org/sustaining

By Trish Haniszewski, Development Officer

At Sullivan Hills Camp, the much-loved Filsinger Pond is coming back to life! Repairs are complete, and the pond is now being refilled.

The restoration of Filsinger Pond is one of the most ambitious and needed projects within the Sustaining Sacred Spaces Campaign at Sullivan Hills Camp. For years, the pond struggled to retain water, limiting both its use and beauty. Now, thanks to dedicated support and careful planning, the project has transformed the site into a lasting, sustainable feature for generations of campers to enjoy.

“Several years ago, the pond lost its ability to hold water,” Jon Brinkman, NLOM Construction Project Manager, explained. “We decided the best long-term solution was to install a reinforced polyethylene liner. Hired excavators dug out the existing pond, increasing its size and depth to 12 feet at the deepest point. A liner company then installed the new liner, and large river rock was added above it to protect the slope. The upgrades should provide many years of enjoyment.”

“Through our planning, we decided to enlarge the size of the lake and use a liner to ensure that it would be usable for many years to come,” Jason Gerdes, NLOM Executive Director added. “Making these changes increased the cost of this project from our projected $75,000 to $200,000. We have received campaign gifts from our generous friends totaling $160,000 for this project, leaving a gap of $40,000 for us to still cover.”

Two generous lead donors stepped forward to make this restoration possible—Kim Castner and Bruce and Carol Bartling—and their gifts inspired others to give.

“Our adult sons loved Sullivan Hills Camp when they were younger, and I saw firsthand the positive impact it had on their lives,” Kim shared. “The friendships they made and the faith they developed here stayed with them through adulthood. We want other youth to have that same opportunity to experience the beauty of creation, to feel God’s presence in places like Filsinger Pond, and to build a foundation of faith that lasts a lifetime.”

Bruce and Carol expressed their deep affection for Sullivan Hills Camp and the special meaning Filsinger Pond holds for them.

“We think of it as home,” Bruce shared.

Drawn by their love for children and their desire to nurture faith, the Bartlings saw the pond as a place where campers can experience both God’s creation and God’s peace. They described how sunrises over the water invite campers to begin each day with God, and sunsets offer time to reflect with gratitude. To them, the pond’s calm waters and natural beauty, surrounded by tall grass and vibrant colors, creates the perfect setting to center oneself, pray, and grow in faith.

“It’s a place to be still, to find peace, and to talk with God,” Carol added.

The Bartlings also reflected on how the pond connects to familiar Bible stories, Jesus calming the storm, baptism in the water, and moments of fellowship shared by the shore, making it a living reminder of faith in action.

Campers and families will be thrilled to see this project completed when they return next summer.

“My boys can’t wait to go back, and we are so thankful to have this camp so close to where we live” a mother of two first-time campers shared. “Sullivan Hills Camp is truly one of the highlights of our summer. Thank you for putting on such an amazing camp!”

As the waters rise again at Filsinger Pond, so does the joy and spirit that define Sullivan Hills Camp. Every gift, large or small, helps sustain this sacred space for years to come.

Building Connections:

By Korey Breutzmann, Director of Programs

“Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without even knowing it.”

- 1 Hebrews 13:2

“My favorite activity to lead for groups that come out to camp in the fall is low ropes and co-op. I really like the connection I get to make with the group and that I get to know them on an individual level.”

One day this fall, I was working on the Commitment Ropes Course with Thiep Gach. Thiep, or “Princess TT” as our campers lovingly called him, worked on our staff this summer. After camp concluded, he accepted a seasonal position with us working with all of the various ropes groups that visit in the fall. We often hire one or two summer staff to stay on for this role, as our ropes courses are used almost daily during the season.

When I asked Thiep what his favorite activity to lead was, I expected him to say something about the ropes course or our brand-new zip line. Instead, his answer surprised me: low ropes and co-op. He may be the first ropes staff member in history to tell me that!

There’s something humbling and holy about hearing Thiep talk about how important it is for him to connect and create a relationship with people he has just met. In Hebrews, the author writes, “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without even knowing it.”

Lessons from the Ropes Course

There is a classic camp skit where Jesus calls someone on a telephone to inform them that they will be hosting Jesus for dinner. Throughout the skit, three different strangers approach the host needing help in various ways. Each time, the host declines to help them because they are so focused on making sure everything is perfect for dinner when Jesus arrives. The skit ends with Jesus calling the host to inform them that Jesus showed up for dinner three times and the host declined to invite them in.

While I have seen and performed this skit more times than I can count, it still brings depth and meaning to what is happening in my life every time. Aren’t we all guilty of focusing on the wrong things? Haven’t we all passed up the opportunity to help or welcome a stranger because we were preoccupied with what felt more comfortable or something we deem more important?

In Hebrews we learn, Jesus is very present in those moments and is calling out to us. How we respond in those moments is our choice, but I think we can all recognize what Jesus would want us to focus on.

I remember when we interviewed Thiep back in May for his position as a group leader at camp. When asked why he wanted to work at camp, his answer stuck with me:

“I remember all of things that people did for me when I was younger, how they welcomed me in and how they taught me things to help me be a better person. I want to continue to pass that down to the next generation of kids.”

This summer and fall, Thiep did just that. He welcomed and spent time with countless children and youth, creating new relationships and strengthening old ones. He modeled God’s love and hospitality to those around him.

Where can you model that same hospitality in your life? How can we, as a community and as the Church, reach out to the stranger and welcome them? For we never know what angel we might be entertaining.

Meet the Volunteers Behind Our Bluebird Boxes

By Lisa Stirtz, Volunteer Coordinator

Did you know there are 30 bluebird boxes throughout Carol Joy Holling Camp?

For the past 18 years, three dedicated volunteers—Monte Lund and his three-legged dog, Buster; Don Glasgow; and Rick Hoffman—have faithfully visited camp twice a month to monitor and care for the bluebirds and their homes.

Each visit begins with a gentle knock on the side of the box to ensure no birds are inside. Sometimes, a bluebird will dart out the moment a box is opened, so the men have learned to approach with care. Once the door is opened, they are checking for nests, and identifying which nest belongs to bluebirds. Bluebirds build their nests neatly from grass alone; while other birds use sticks or other materials.

In these boxes, over the years, they’ve found everything from clutches of eggs to the occasional surprise visitor, including a frog!

They carefully count and record the number of eggs in each nest, then move on to the next box. Their findings are reported

to Bluebirds Across Nebraska, which tracks bluebird populations statewide.

Bluebird houses are installed in pairs across camp, and each spring, the female chooses her preferred home. The bright blue males stay nearby, keeping watch.

This volunteer job runs from April to October. Once the birds migrate south for the winter, the job shifts to repairing or building new houses— many crafted by former NLOM Executive Director, Roger Sasse.

Dennis Pope first gathered this group of volunteers and taught them how to maintain the boxes and identify bluebird activity. Since then, Monte, Don, and Rick have given countless hours to this ministry of creation care. They’ve explored camp’s trails in every season, enjoyed the beauty of nature, and collected more than a few stories along the way.

Now, after nearly two decades of service, they are ready to pass the torch.

Thank you, Monte, Don, and Rick, for your years of faithful service to camp! Your dedication has made a lasting impact—both on our grounds and on the creatures, who call this place home.

This is just one example of the many volunteer opportunities at camp. If you have a love for nature, enjoy spending time outdoors, and like working with campers of all ages and abilities, we would love to hear from you! To learn more about becoming a volunteer with NLOM, contact Lisa Stirtz at 402-944-2544.

Inspiring Curiosity Through Outdoor Education Exploring Creation:

By Laura Stalder, Youth Programs Specialist

My passion for the outdoors began in my childhood, where I spent countless hours exploring. If I wasn’t investigating the small stream near my house, I was wandering along the slightly larger one on my family farm with my dog. During those adventures, I learned countless invaluable lessons.

As I grew older, I realized that not everyone had the same opportunities for exploration. One of my favorite aspects of my job today is being able to give campers a taste of that same sense of wonder I experienced as a child.

One of my favorite lessons to lead is called “Water We Doing?” at the lake. The purpose of the lesson is to learn about the lake quality by identifying the aquatic invertebrates that inhabit it. We use small nets to scoop up the lake substrate near the water’s edge and look for movement. What I love most about this lesson is witnessing how quickly feelings of disgust can transform into excitement and curiosity.

At the beginning of the activity, many campers are reluctant to touch the lake substrate, especially knowing that there might be something crawling on it. Initially, most campers seek ways to avoid getting too close to the dirt, often using sticks to dig instead. However, as the lesson progresses, they gradually begin to touch the sand, maybe even scooping some aside with their fingers. By the end of the lesson, those same hesitant campers are proudly walking around showing everyone the five dragonfly nymphs in their hand that they discovered in their net.

Fall Festival Brings Families Together

By Laura Stalder, Youth Programs Specialist

Our team set out to find a new, fun way to share camp fun with families who haven’t yet been out to camp, as well as give our seasoned campers an opportunity to return and enjoy one more day of camp fun this year. From this, Fall Festival was born!

On an unseasonably hot fall afternoon, dozens of families turned out for some camp fun, laughter, and fellowship.

The first rotation of activities included boating, creative arts, and hayrack rides. The second rotation offered even more excitement— zip line rides, trick-or-treating at the cabins, inflatable archery, and lively games of gaga ball.

The evening concluded with dinner and a campfire worship, the perfect way to end a day spent in community and joy.

It was a great afternoon of connection and fun, and we’re already looking forward to seeing how this event grows in the years ahead.

If you missed out, we’ll see you next year on October 3!

Family Campout: A Weekend of Faith, Fun, and Connection

By Jessica Weltz, Adult Programs Specialist

The recent Family Campout brought together nine families for a weekend filled with connection, laughter, and outdoor fun.

We enjoyed beautiful weather—sunny skies and warm temperatures—a perfect way to close out the summer months.

Families arrived eager to relax, unwind, and spend quality time together in God’s wondrous creation.

Throughout the weekend, we encouraged families to participate in a variety of camp activities.

One of the highlights was soaring across Carol Joy Holling Camp’s new zipline. Parents and kids alike zipped over the green fields below.

Families also bonded while paddle boating and canoeing at Crystal Springs Lake.

Each evening, everyone gathered around the campfire for devotions. One of the themes we reflected on came from Matthew 5:14-16 - “You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hid. No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in Heaven.”

So, how does your light shine? Is it dim, hidden, or bright like a lamp on a stand? What can you do to make your light shine brighter? How can you reflect God’s love at school, at work, during sports practice, at the gym, in the grocery store, or in your daily tasks?

If you missed us this time, join us in 2026: September 18-20!

Bringing

on the Fairways Faith: Alive!

By Allison Blatchford, Events & Communications Manager

We had two great days on the green at this year’s Camp Classics!

Our 16th annual Camp Classic at Kearney was a beautiful end to the summer. On a relatively temperate day, 52 golfers and eight volunteers came out to support camp. Teams were excited to tee off and spend time enjoying each other’s company.

This event, which began with Jason Gerdes’s parents 16 years ago, has been a wonderful way to support Nebraska Lutheran Outdoor Ministries. After much consideration and prayer, it has been determined that this event will sunset this year.

We are deeply grateful to all the golfers, volunteers, individuals, and businesses who have supported the Kearney Camp Classic throughout its 16-year history. You have helped make Faith: Alive! for campers at both Carol Joy Holling and Sullivan Hills Camps.

The 23rd Camp Classic at Ashland was a day full of surprises! While planning this golf outing, there was discussion about what if it snows. Instead, we faced 94-degree weather! Record highs outside meant record fun could be had. A total of 151 golfers and seven volunteers joined us for an incredible day on the course.

After a great day on the greens, we enjoyed dinner together and a lively raffle. Prizes ranged from a Tory Burch package to handy tools and even a signed football. The excitement and laughter made for a memorable celebration of camp and community.

Both tournaments combined raised $88,000 to support camp ministry. We are so thankful for your generous gifts!

Mark your calendars for next year’s Camp Classic at Ashland on Friday, October 2. We hope to see you there!

Your Giving: What You Need to Know About the New Tax Law

By Sarah Callahan, Executive Director, Lutheran Giving

The changes to the tax code that begin January 1, 2026, could affect how – and when – you choose to give to NLOM and your other favorite nonprofits.

What’s new:

1. Tax benefit for non-itemizers

Even if you take the standard deduction, there is a new permanent charitable deduction. You will be able to deduct up to $1,000 (single filers) or $2,000 (married couples) of cash gifts. Gifts to donor advised funds are excluded.

2. New floor for itemizers

If you itemize, you will have to meet a minimum giving amount equal to 0.5% of your adjusted gross income (AGI) before you can start to claim a charitable deduction. You may want to consider “bunching” your gifts - consolidating several years of giving into a single tax year - or contributing to a donor advised fund.

3. New limit for top earners

For those in the highest tax bracket, your tax savings on every dollar you donate is dropping from 37 cents to 35 cents. Consider accelerating your giving this year to maximize your current tax benefit.

What stays:

1. Income tax brackets

The new law permanently extends the reduced individual income tax rates (10%, 12%, 22%, 24%, 32%, 35%, 37%).

2. Standard deduction

For 2025, it is $15,750 for single filers and $31,500 for married couples filing jointly. Even if you don’t itemize, you may still gain significant tax benefit by donating appreciated assets (i.e. stocks or mutual funds) or, if you are 70½ or older, by making a Qualified Charitable Deduction directly from an IRA account to NLOM

3. Deduction limit for cash gifts

You can still deduct cash gifts of up to 60% of your AGI (up from 50%). Consider combining your cash and non-cash assets to maximize your tax benefits and impact.

4. Estate and gift tax exemption

It will increase to $15 million per individual and $30 million per married couple filing jointly in 2026 and will be indexed for inflation. Because most estates fall under this amount, its usually better to focus on giving now to receive immediate tax benefits.

By considering these tax changes, you can ensure your generosity has the greatest possible impact, both for the causes you care about, and for your financial well-being. If you would like to look at ways to maximize your current and future gifting strategies, Lutheran Giving can provide complimentary planning assistance. NLOM partners with Lutheran Giving so that friends of NLOM can access Lutheran Giving’s resources at no cost.

The information here is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be construed as providing legal or tax advice. This information is general in nature and is not intended to serve as the primary or sole basis for investment or taxplanning decisions. You are encouraged to consult your tax advisor.