The Branch Magazine - Spring 2025 by Carol Joy Holling Camp

SPRING 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

ONE DAY. ONE GOAL. ONE Big Splash.

BY JACOB SPILKER, DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT

This summer, we’re inviting you to be part of something big—a day of generosity and impact that helps make camp possible and keeps our sacred spaces ready for the next generation.

On June 12, Nebraska Lutheran Outdoor Ministries will host our annual Giving Day with a bold goal of raising $100,000 in just 24 hours. Every gift made that day will make a double impact:

- 50% will provide Camperships so that every camper has the chance to experience the joy of camp, no matter their financial situation.

- 50% will support the renovation of the shower house at The Springs, giving new life to one of the most-used and well-loved spaces at Carol Joy Holling Camp.

NLOM ANNUAL GIVING DAY CONTRIBUTIONS

50% to Camperships

50% to renovate The Springs shower house

It’s a day built on the belief that when we come together, even for just one day, we can make a difference that lasts well beyond the summer.

Because, camp changes lives.

You know first-hand the impact of camp. It’s where faith comes alive, strangers become lifelong friends, confidence grows, and campers encounter God’s love in real, tangible ways.

But none of that happens without you.

When you give on June 12, you’re helping ensure that more campers can gather around the campfire, splash into the pool, hike the trails, belt out silly songs, and maybe even get a little too competitive at Gaga Ball. You’re opening the door for a camper to step into an experience that could change their life.

And while camp is filled with mountaintop moments, we also know the in-between spaces matter, the places where campers catch their breath, swap stories, and scrub off the day’s adventure. That’s why your gift will also help us care for one of those very important spots: the shower house at The Springs.

This project comes at the perfect time. We’ve recently updated the cabins at The Springs to make them more camper-friendly, adding air conditioning and changing rooms to ensure comfort and hospitality. Now, it’s the shower house’s turn for a little love. After years of faithful service (and who knows how many shampoo bottles), it’s ready for a refresh—and together, we can make sure this space is just as welcoming and ready as the rest of camp.

“One of my favorite parts of working at The Springs was the beautiful connections to our baptismal identity,” Erin Coleman Branchaud, Summer Staff alumnus stated. “The Jerusalem cross at the center; the cabins named for each continent; the literal springs of water. Life at the springs is centered on Christ, extending out to the whole world, and literally grounded in the element of water that washes us in God’s grace.

“Renovating the showers will only strengthen this beautiful embodied baptismal experience! As campers and staff wash themselves each day in updated showers, they will be bathed in the same waters by which God saves them! Showered—literally!—with mercy and grace that is new every morning.”

Giving

Day is for everyone.

Whether you’re a Summer Ministry Team alum, camper parent, lifelong supporter, or someone who simply knows the power of camp—you are part of this community, and your gift matters.

Every donation, no matter the amount, helps us reach our $100,000 goal and ensures that NLOM continues to be a place where faith is nurtured, joy is shared, and lives are transformed.

The Springs shower house

NEW! changing areas

Updated cabins with air conditioning

ALUMNI CHALLENGE: NAME THE SHOWER HOUSE

To make the day even more fun, we’re inviting our Summer Ministry Team alumni to join in a friendly challenge. The decade of SMT alumni with the most donors on Giving Day will earn the right to name the renovated shower house at The Springs!

Will the ‘90s bring the heat? Will the 2010s rally the crew? Bragging rights—and the name on the building—are on the line.

How You Can Be Part of It:

• Save the date: June 12, 2025

• Join us with a gift of any size; every dollar helps us reach our goal. Give online at NLOM.org/give or mail a check to 27416 Ranch Road, Ashland, NE 68003 with “Giving Day” and your decade in the memo.

• Invite your friends and family, as well as the Summer Ministry Team members you served with to give, too.

• Use the Alumni Facebook page to share your story as we head into the summer season.

Together, let’s make June 12 a day to remember—one filled with generosity, community, and the spark that keeps faith alive.

The Heart of a Family: The Spruth - Janssen Faith Heritage

By Allison Blatchford, Events and Communications Manager

The Spruth-Janssen Family received the 2025 Heart of Camp Faith Award.

It was evident as we began a conversation with Pastors Amalia & Eric Spruth–Janssen that their love for camp and the passion for faith formation were going to form a beautiful story.

Camp was a part of their early pastoral lives. Pastor Amalia experienced NLOM early in her call here in Nebraska through retreats for female pastors. For Pastor Eric, it was his first drive into camp that allowed the peace of this place to consume him.

They knew early on this place would hold a space in their hearts and help to create some amazing memories for their family life.

The Spruth–Janssen family grew, and each child has had a great experience at camp. Micah, Isaiah, and Kyria all have attend camp as campers. From TrailHead to Whispering Winds, camp has been a part of summers for most of their lives. As young adults, they all chose to work at camp not only as Summer Ministry Team members, but also as needed in other various roles.

They each share that time spent in this sacred space helped them to grow into the faith-filled young adults that they are and has impacted their life stories and career choices.

Pastors Amalia & Eric still attend camp with confirmation groups, retreats, and other great opportunities. The time spent on this ground has allowed for their faith to grow and change, but one thing has remained the same—the need for this space to be safe for all who are here.

Their intentional pull to faith formation has allowed many young adults to explore their call and then find ways to live that out in their vocations.

As a family, living out faith, they are passionate about participating and furthering Carol Joy Holling Camp. This is a place that is safe, brave, and healing and allows for all campers, leaders, and other individuals to become curious about faith and learn to be innovative leaders.

And all God’s people say “Amen! Yes! Yes! Yes!”

Kyria on the high ropes course during Staff Training

Micah doing a skit for LIFT

Isaiah leading campers at Explore! Day Retreat

Honoring Mosaic Partners in Hospitality

By Allison Blatchford, Events and Communications Manager

Mosaic and NLOM have a long-standing partnership, serving people and ensuring that camp is available for all—no matter the ability of the camper.

Through the development of the Jay Novicki program, the partnership between Mosaic and NLOM developed and continued to flourish.

This program started originally for summer programming but has grown enough in popularity that it is now a yearround offering both onsite at camp and at select Mosaic locations.

The dream of inclusive camp was brought to fruition for campers both at NLOM and at Mosaic locations through programming and exciting ways to engage and excite campers.

Mosaic also utilizes camp for fun outings. Annually, they host a picnic that honored people supported, family members, employees, donors, and other partners. At the Inclusion Matters Picnic, there were fun activities and famous camp food (reportedly the pulled pork sandwiches were the fan favorite that day).

“It is an honor to serve individuals in our Lutheran circle,” shared Linda Timmons, CEO of Mosaic. “As partners in ministry, the ability to serve and change lives makes a difference every day.”

Linda Timmons accepted Mosaic’s 2025 Heart of Camp Gala Hospitality Award

Mosaic is very involved in our Jay Novicki Program and has a group of campers come each day camp!

A Place to belonG:

Eli’s

Jay NovicKi Journey

BY JESSICA WELTZ, ADULT PROGRAMS SPECIALIST

Eli’s first experience with the Jay Novicki program was five years ago, and it was a day his mom will never forget. Nervous and unsure, she left Eli at camp, worried about how he would handle being away from home.

At first, Eli was the only participant there that day, but that quickly changed as he was surrounded by other campers. The support and encouragement from staff and fellow participants made Eli feel at home.

Since then, he’s returned every year for day camps, and eagerly anticipated the new friendships and adventures each summer.

The experience of being welcomed into a friendly and inclusive community from the start is what has kept Eli coming back year after year.

It was about three years ago when Nick joined the Jay Novicki program, and he and Eli instantly clicked. Both share a deep love for sports, and their shared passion quickly transformed them into inseparable friends. Their connection grew not only through their mutual interests but also through the shared experiences the camp provided. The sense of belonging and community fostered by the program is at the heart of their bond.

Over the years, both have attended not only the day camps but also overnight summer camp together as roommates, strengthening their friendship in a space built on trust, support, and faith.

This is just one of countless stories of how the Jay Novicki program has impacted the lives of participants. It’s a place where friendships are built, where participants return month after month, year after year, and where they truly become part of our camp family. The community that is formed through these shared experiences is at the core of what makes the program so special. It’s not just about fun activities or outdoor adventures—it’s about creating lasting connections, fostering growth, and deepening a love for God.

For so many like Eli and Nick, the Jay Novicki program is more than a camp—it’s a second home where they are supported, encouraged, and welcomed back with open arms year after year.

AUGUST 26 & 27, 2025

SEPTEMBER 16 & 17, 2025

OCTOBER 7 & 8, 2025

Jay Novicki Day Camps for adults with special needs run from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Monke Lodge at The Springs site.

A Jay Novicki Camp T-shirt is included in the $20 registration fee. Register for all three day camps this fall for only $50 total!

Scan the QR Code to learn more about our Jay Novicki Program or visit NLOM.org/caroljoyholling

Discovery and Devotion: God in the Small Things

By Korey Breutzmann, Director of Programs

This winter and spring have been an especially fun and awe-filled time in my household. My daughter, Eden, who will be turning two this summer, has taken notice of the wonderful things happening in God’s creation. During the brief time we had snow, she got to build her first snowman and take her first trip down the hill on a sled. When the weather is nice, she gets really excited to go outside and look for birds in our neighborhood or roll the tennis ball down the hill so our dog will go and get it.

While she takes in all these things, seemingly for the first time, she just repeats “Wow!” or “More!” and it gets me thinking about all the campers who get to come to camp and experience their own new things with the same amazement and thirst for more.

In just a few short days, camp will be filled with the sounds of kids running, laughing, and screaming with joy and excitement. Many of them have never done things like canoeing, climbing a rock wall, or riding a horse. They get to experience all of those things for the first time in their life, and while there is definitely hesitation, there is joy and amazement in what they are doing. For some, it is even deeper than that. This may be the first time they have the opportunity to hear about Jesus or explore their faith in a safe environment.

Camp is special in that way, and I think of God looking on, just as I do with Eden, with a big smile on my face and love in my heart. It makes me thankful for my own renewed sense of awe and wonder at the simplest things that I sometimes take for granted.

As summer approaches, I hope we can all take time to have that childlike wonder for something in our lives. Take a moment to look around at creation and take notice of the things we often overlook: the stars in the sky, the birds in the air, and the rocks on the ground. May you have the renewed sense of awe and wonder that a camper, or toddler, has in experiencing things for the first time.

“When I look at your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars that you have established; what are human beings that you are mindful of them, mortals that you care for them?”

-Psalm 8:3-4

Camp: Where I Found Purpose, People, and God

Farrel Aflagah, 2025 Ranch Camp Site Coordinator

“Carol Joy Holling Camp is where we’re from” quickly went from just a slogan at my summer job to a cornerstone of my faith. Being a part of the Summer Ministry Team at Nebraska Lutheran Outdoor Ministries completely changed my entire life for the better, and is now an experience I will forever cherish close to my heart.

Before coming and working at camp, I was an introverted, reserved, solitary person. I didn’t enjoy being around people outside of my close-knit friend group, and my faith consisted of treating the Bible like a textbook attempting to learn every single detail from cover to cover on my own. Then came camp… My life, my faith, and everything in between did a complete 180.

Upon coming to camp, I was met with such a warm welcome and open arms. Quite literally everyone I met had a genuine smile on their face and was excited to be there, something I had never experienced before in my life. The sense of community that camp brought was like no other and I felt at home immediately. Everyone had each other’s backs through thick and thin—there was always someone to lean on. Whether you needed a shoulder to cry on, a friend to share laughter with, or simply someone to help carry your burdens, you never had to face anything alone at camp. I was once the kid who avoided community at all costs and didn’t really see the point in it, now transformed into someone who was diving headfirst into one of the most loving communities in the world.

Yet, the impact camp had on my life didn’t stop there. Throughout my time working on the Summer Ministry Team, my faith grew exponentially. As the ten weeks went on, I realized God wasn’t some distant figure looking down on me, but was intimately involved in every moment, guiding me, teaching me, and walking beside me through every challenge and triumph. Having the opportunity to teach campers about Jesus and see Him through our day-to-day events completely changed my faith, building an inextinguishable fire in my heart for the Lord. So much so, that I believe God used my time working as part of the Summer Ministry Team to assure me, in confidence, that ministry was something I want to pursue full-time. God used my time at NLOM to turn me from an introverted observer to a passionate, committed servant in ministry.

One specific moment that stands out to me took place during week three at camp. I was in charge of a group of thirteen incredible high schoolers, all mature beyond their years. However, one camper, in particular, caught my attention from the moment I met him. His name was Will, and his passion for the Lord was unlike anything I had ever seen in someone so young. Inspired by

Carol Joy Holling Camp is where we’re from

his zeal, I allowed him to lead one of the Bible studies that week, not thinking much of it. Exactly one week later, I received a letter from Will in the mail. In it, he shared that because I trusted him to lead, and the Bible study went so well, he had decided to change his career path and pursue vocational ministry. The moment I read that letter, I broke down in tears. I was not only proud of Will, but it was at that moment I realized the impact I could have on someone through my time at Carol Joy Holling Camp.

As I return for my second summer as a Site Coordinator, I am filled with excitement to join the Summer Ministry Team once again. Having experienced the transformative power of outdoor ministries firsthand, I am eager to share that same sense of community, love, and impact with both new staff and campers. There’s truly nothing like the atmosphere at camp—it’s a place where God’s presence is felt in profound ways. If there’s one thing I can guarantee about this summer, it’s that God will meet you through the loving community of NLOM and the Summer Ministry Team. “Carol Joy Holling Camp is where we’re from” is no longer just a slogan; it is a truth that lives in my heart.

OVERCOMING & BECOMING

By Dennis Pope, Manager of Adventure Programs

We see it over and over. Someone is sitting at the edge of the zip line platform unable to step off. Frozen. In the uncertainty of it all the mind races with thoughts and emotions full of fear and anxiety: Can I handle this? Am I good enough? Where is God in all of this? In our own lives, haven’t we all been grounded in similar vulnerable positions such as these?

A thank you from a camper to Program Staff

A prayer message from my childhood stands out…don’t pray for an easy life, pray for the strength to overcome the challenges that may come our way. A couple of weeks ago my pastor reflected in her sermon on the point that we often think that our lives will be better… as soon as we get through the challenge we are facing right now. We all know, however, that there will always be another challenge. Another mountain to climb. The only certainty in life is that there will be more uncertainty.

We also know that when we face our challenges:

• We become stronger people. We find out that we are often so much more capable than we think we are. We build resilience and grit, becoming more confident to handle future challenges.

• We understand that fear is a powerful force. But it is not the most powerful force. The love and support of those around us can have meaningful impacts. In these moments in particular, we feel the encouragement and embrace of others through the high fives, hugs, and words of encouragement to help us through the hard times.

• We are reminded that God is bigger than our challenges.

Just as we have seen countless hesitant zip line participants, we have also seen over and over again the power of those overcoming. Stepping out in faith, leaning on the support of others, finding the courage from within. Often when we take steps to overcome, we take great strides in who we are about to become. What a great opportunity to grow and feel more confident.

Through exciting challenges like our high ropes course, problem-solving activities, and trust-building exercises, your team will strengthen communication, foster collaboration, and create memories that last far beyond the day!

RISE STRONGER AS ONE.

Book your unforgettable team-building experience today!

Scan the QR Code to learn more or contact Dennis at DPope@NLOM.org or 402-944-2544.

Mary Kay Jones and the Rogers Foundation’s Impact on NLOM

By Trish Haniszewski, Development Officer

For years, Nebraska Lutheran Outdoor Ministries has been blessed by the generosity and steadfast support of the Rogers Foundation, with Mary Kay Jones at the heart of this partnership. Inspired by her father Rex Marquart’s lifelong commitment to helping others, Mary joined the Rogers Foundation board, embracing its mission to strengthen organizations and communities in Lincoln and beyond.

Mary’s connection to NLOM runs deep. As a teenager, she visited the camp with her church group from Our Saviour’s Lutheran in Lincoln, Neb. Years later, her own children experienced the life-changing environment of NLOM.

“The values that NLOM supports and gives to everyone drew me to helping expand it,” Mary reflected. “They welcome people from all walks of life, no matter their beliefs.”

The Rogers Foundation’s ongoing support has been instrumental in helping NLOM grow and endure—especially through challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mary has stuck with us through difficult times and has been a truly wonderful partner. She is always excited to hear updates and see the impact of the foundation’s gifts. Their recent support of the Sustaining Sacred Spaces Campaign has been remarkable.

When asked about a defining moment behind the foundation’s generosity, Mary couldn’t name just one. Instead, she spoke of countless moments—campers building friendships, growing in faith, and discovering new strengths.

“Just seeing the joy in campers as they learn about faith, trust, and even healing—it’s incredible,” Mary shared.

Looking to the future, Mary is excited about NLOM’s lasting impact.

“NLOM will be here for generations to come, and families will return every year to enjoy this amazing place,” she said. “The passion of the staff and volunteers is so clear—you can see it in their faces and hear it in the way they talk about coming back year after year.”

Mary Kay Jones and the Rogers Foundation embody the spirit of generosity that makes NLOM a place of faith, growth, and belonging. Thanks to their dedication, campers today—and for generations to come—will continue to find joy, purpose, and community at NLOM.

Faith That Comes Alive: A Pastor’s Perspective on Camp

By Dennis Remington, Development Associate

“Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God is one Lord, and you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your might… and you shall teach them diligently to your children…”

- Deuteronomy 6:4–9

As a boy, I was blessed with parents who lived out this scripture. We had morning devotions, went to church, Sunday school, youth group, and summer Bible camp. Those experiences shaped my faith deeply, and it’s why I care so much about helping the next generation have the same opportunity.

I sat down recently with Pastor Greg and Gina DeBoer from First Lutheran Church in Fremont, Neb. They are two people who are just as passionate about the life-changing power of camp. What struck me most is how strongly they see camp and the local church working hand-in-hand.

“Camp helps faith come alive in ways that are hard to replicate anywhere else,” Pastor Greg shared. Gina nodded, adding,

“We see kids come home from camp more grounded, more joyful, and more ready to lead in church and in life.”

Their church makes it a priority to help every child attend camp, offering financial support to families who need it. They see it as an investment in the spiritual life of their entire congregation.

One unique gift of camp, they said, is that kids not only grow in faith—they become more

confident, compassionate, and connected. Through experiences like the Jay Novicki Day Camps, even how they interact with others begins to change. “We notice the difference,” Gina said. “They come home singing camp songs, and you can just see that something holy happened.”

They shared a story that still gives me goosebumps about a young boy who didn’t want to attend camp. His grandparents paid his way, and when they came to the closing program, they found a joyful child who didn’t want to leave. On the ride home, he sang camp songs and talked about how camp had changed his life.

I’ve seen the impact in my own family too. My granddaughter Elizabeth brought two friends to camp last summer. When I picked them up, I asked what their favorite part was. I expected them to say the zip lines, gaga ball, or the waterslide. But they surprised me: all three said “Bible study.”

It’s stories like these—and the faith of people like Pastor Greg and Gina—that remind me why camp matters so much. Camp is not just a week away; it’s a partner in ministry. It strengthens families, empowers kids, and supports the work of the local church.

Let’s keep talking about Jesus day and night— just like we do at Carol Joy Holling and Sullivan Hills Camps!

Volunteers…

What A Blessing They Are!

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.