“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 Korey Breutzmann, Director of Programs
“The word is near you, on your lips and in your heart.” - Romans 10:8
Animated movies have been a big part of my life ever since I was a young child.
I have many fond memories of gathering with my family on a Saturday night and watching the latest Disney movie while eating a bowl full of popcorn.
I also have vivid memories of taking cross country road trips and packing all my favorite movies to pass the long days in our van. One of my favorite parts of all those movies was when something unexpected happened.
Enter the Plot Twist!
Our summer Bible study will focus on several stories throughout the Bible with some unexpected aspects to them.
When I think about those stories, I get a chance to reflect on my own life and what God is doing that might be unexpected. I think of the times God has shown up in times in which I felt alone. I think of the times God pushed me in a direction that I didn’t want to go, only to have one of the best experiences of my life.
We look to our verse in Romans as our guide to hearing all the stories about expectations being turned on their head and how we hold close the lessons that come from them. We thank God for the twists and turns our lives take and our stories that are never a simple straight line.
To register for camp, scan the QR Code or visit NLOM.org/caroljoyholling or NLOM.org/sullivanhills
MEET CAMP’S 2025
BRE MCMURTRY
Site: TrailHead | Years at Camp: 1
Bre is a sophomore at Bellevue University. She is double-majoring in Sports Management and Criminal Justice. Her favorite thing about camp is S’morgasbord and worship. When she’s not at camp she’s likely on the softball field, hanging out with friends and family, or reading a good book.
RASHAWN RINEY
Site: TrailHead | Years at Camp: 3
Rashawn will be graduating from Creighton University this year. He is studying Graphic Design/ Filmmaking. His favorite thing about camp is participating in co-op games. When he’s not at camp he enjoys going for walks, reading the Bible, drawing, and listening to music.
SITE COORDINATORS
HANNAH-MARIE DONNELL
Site: The Springs | Years at Camp: 3
ELLIE GARTNER
Site: The Grove | Years at Camp: 1
Ellie is a freshman at the University of NebraskaLincoln. She is double-majoring in Criminology and Wildlife & Fisheries. She has one year on staff under her belt, and has eight years as a camper. Her favorite activity at camp is a mud hike. In her free time, if she’s not outside, she is playing the tuba in The Pride of All Nebraska or hanging out with her dog.
Hannah-Marie is attending Iowa Western where she is studying Sociology. She has spent the last three summers as part of our staff. Her favorite thing about camp is First Word. When she’s not at camp she enjoys hiking, running, and traveling.
FARREL AFLAGAH
Site: Ranch Camp | Years at Camp: 1
Farrel is currently attending the University of Nebraska-Omaha. He is studying Computer Science and this will be his 2nd year on our summer staff. One of his favorite things to do at camp is sing PIZZA-MAN at S’morgasbord. When he’s not at camp, he enjoys traveling.
ELI NEITZEL
Site: Leadership Camp | Years at Camp: 12
Eli currently teaches Business/Computers at Ashland-Greenwood Public Schools. He’s been on our summer staff for twelve years! His favorite things to do at camp are S’morgasbord or the Water Slide. When he’s not at camp, he is most likely coaching wrestling, snuggling with his cat, or spending time with his family.
WE’RE HIRING FOR OUR
SUMMER MINISTRY TEAM
The Summer Ministry Team is an inspiring 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 Camp and Sullivan Hills Camp.
BENEFITS:
A full-time, paid summer job
• All meals and on-site housing included
• Expanded network and community
• Making a real difference guiding youth and families at camp and beyond
SKILLS OBTAINED:
Leadership
• Public speaking
• Interpersonal communication
• Facilitation
• Faith Development
• Problem-solving
• Customer service
• Working within a team
• Initiative
• And more!
POSITIONS AVAILABLE :
• Group Leader
» Can become certified in:
• Lifeguard
• Outdoor Education
• Challenge Course Facilitation
• Equine Intern
• Healthcare Intern
Marketing Intern
Summer Ministry Team members must be 18 years or older, or have completed Leadership Camp.
If you know someone who would be 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.
HELLO CONNECTIONS
By Jessica Weltz, Adult Program Specialist
During a crisp November morning, inside the beautiful Hazel Dillon Lodge, we welcomed 14 mother-and-daughter pairs.
In the sacred space of camp, away from the normal daily distractions, mothers and daughters are truly able to use this retreat time to focus on their relationship and build on their bond.
We participated in Bible study and Worship along with other scheduled activities designed to bring mothers and daughters together.
The theme verse for the weekend was from John 8: 12 “When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”
During the night worship, everyone hiked to Inspiration Point. Under the beautiful night sky, with a campfire going, and with nature surrounding us, we worshipped together.
Some of the highlights from the weekend were tie-dying shirts, going on a scavenger hunt around camp, and creating a mother-daughter vision board.
We have so many mother-daughter pairs that look forward to this time each year and making it a cherished tradition.
There is always space for new faces, and we invite you to join us for another weekend this spring, April 12 & 13.
HarvestinG Memories Highlights from our Fall Jay Novicki Program
By Jessica Weltz, Adult Programs Specialist
The fall was a wonderful season for our Jay Novicki program.
We hosted six camps over three months, with a total of 126 participants.
To celebrate our time together, we held a Fall Festival, which is always a highlight for our day camp attendees. This event allows us to reflect on our shared experiences and to look forward to the new year, embracing the love of a God who remains the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow!
The festival featured games, hayrack rides, a ‘tattoo’ stand, and prizes, which brought plenty of smiles and laughter.
As with every day camp, lunch was provided. The meal for theFall Festival was a Midwest classic: chili and cinnamon rolls.
Over the past year, participants have joined us from locations ranging from Council Bluffs to Crete, coming together for hours of fellowship and camp activities.
As the Adult Program Specialist, I am thrilled by the growth we have experienced in this program.
Thanks to the hard work and dedication of the Programs staff, we have been planting seeds of hope for the past five years.
This program has blossomed and continues to evolve into something truly beautiful.
REGISTRATION IS OPEN FOR OUR SPRING JAY NOVICKI DAY CAMPS!
We would love to welcome an individual in your life to this truly unique experience.
Day camps are held at Monke Lodge at Carol Joy Holling Camp from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., with lunch included.
We focus on bringing camp to individuals with disabilities, sharing God’s love with them and enjoying fellowship.
Here is a peek at what we are offering this spring:
March | Wildlife Encounters will bring some animal friends to camp for an exciting presentation!
April | We celebrate Earth Day by creating DIY birdfeeders and planting flowers.
May | Get geared up for summer by taking a hayrack ride to the lake for fishing and playing camp games.
Time: 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Location: Monke Lodge at Carol Joy Holling Camp
Cost: $20
This includes lunch and a free t-shirt (for those who have not received one yet).
To register, scan the QR Code or visit NLOM.org/caroljoyholling
Building Tomorrow’s Memories: Sustaining Sacred Spaces Campaign
By Dani Hatfield, Director of Marketing
Winter may have settled in, but at camp, the excitement is just beginning!
With the support of generous donors—including the CL and Rachel Werner Foundation, Hawks Foundation, Nebraska Environmental Trust, Sid Dillon, Immanuel Vision Foundation, and many others—the Sustaining Sacred Spaces Campaign is bringing incredible transformations to our camps. Thanks to this ongoing generosity, we are moving closer to our goal of ensuring camp remains a place of faith, adventure, and lasting memories for generations to come.
So, what’s new for campers this summer?
At Carol Joy Holling Camp, campers at The Grove will be housed in brand-new yurts, designed for both comfort and adventure. These unique spaces will have bunk beds and air conditioning, offering the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern convenience.
Meanwhile, The Springs campers will enjoy renovated, insulated, and air-conditioned cabins, ensuring a cozy retreat after long days of exploration and fun.
For those who love high-flying thrills, the redesigned Forest Zipline is ready to elevate the experience.
Elementary and intergenerational campers at Taste of Camp and KINnect Camp will get to soar across the ravine and then back across Crystal Springs Lake, making for an unforgettable adventure.
At Sullivan Hills Camp, the pond is being revitalized as it will once again be the heart of camp activities. A brand-new pond liner will allow the water to return, just in time for the start of summer. That means campers will be back to fishing, canoeing, and paddle boating once again!
The archery range is also getting a refresh, with a new location near the bouldering wall, making it easier than ever for campers to test their skills. We are also developing an off-site adventure for middle and high school students at Lake McConaughy. Also, a state-ofthe-art Low-Ropes course will soon be added to Sullivan Hills Camp.
While we’ve made incredible progress, there’s still more work to be done to ensure camp continues to thrive. If you’d like to learn more about how you can be part of this transformational journey, visit NLOM.org/sustaining or contact Jacob at JSpilker@NLOM.org or 402-944-2544.
Camp’s future is bright—thank you for being part of it!
Scan the QR Code to learn more or visit, NLOM.org/sustaining
EXPLORING GOD’S STORY AT CAMP
By Korey Breutzmann, Director of Programs
Think about the last time you heard a great story. Did it make you laugh? Bring a tear to your eye? Evoke joy or anger, love or sadness?
Each story and every part of our lives is shaped by words—spoken, heard, and read. The greatest story, though, is that of God’s salvation for all of creation.
In the beginning, God spoke words to create light and life. God’s Word came alive in Jesus Christ, the Savior.
We read God’s word in scripture. As we hear the stories in this summer’s Bible study, we will see the many ways in which the story takes an unexpected turn.
God continues to work to derail our expectations and push us into a new way of thinking and unexpected endings.
Through these stories, we will experience one of the most exciting elements of storytelling.
The PLOT TWIST!
Each day will focus on a different story where individual or cultural expectations take a twist.
Each of those twists is centered on a central idea of what we can learn and take from each story as we navigate the world today. Let’s take a closer look at each day.
SURPRISE
On the first day, campers will be grounded in God’s salvation story—that throughout scripture and time, God continually works to bring God’s people life through love and the forgiveness of sin.
In the story of Abraham and Sarah, campers will hear about the plot-twisting surprise that God offers Sarah and, through it, learn to look for God’s presence as they are out and about in their daily lives.
CALLING
On the second day, campers will learn how God is at work in their own stories through love and blessing.
Grounded in the story of David, campers will learn about God’s blessing and calling. Even though David was imperfect, God chose and blessed him, just as today God chooses and blesses everyone to lead a life of love using our own unique gifts in the world, even the most unlikely of people.
LISTENING
On the third day, campers will discover how important it is to listen to others’ stories, such as those of their new camp friends.
Jesus validates others’ stories in his encounter with them because they, too, are loved and blessed. Through the biblical characters of Jairus and his daughter, campers will discover how God is at work in everyone, especially those we might least expect.
SERVING
On the fourth day, campers will build on knowing their story and what it means to serve.
When a complete stranger twisted the plot and cared for his neighbor, God’s love changed the world. We find that God can use each of our own gifts to bring love, mercy, and justice to the world.
FOLLOWING
On the final day, campers will find that God’s work in the world is never done, and God is always working to bring life out of death, love out of hate, and order out of chaos.
To round out the week, campers will find themselves in the garden with Mary and Jesus on the first Easter morning, where we see that God’s story is not done yet. By following God’s word to the promise of new life, campers can continue to help write God’s story of love and salvation.
As you finish reading about this summer’s camp theme, take some time to discuss and ponder the questions below about God’s Plot Twist’s in your life.
• What is a recent surprise in your life that ended up having a more positive outcome than you could have imagined?
• When was a time that you acted on a call that you were hesitant about? How did it effect your faith life?
• Is there a time in your life where someone truly listened to your needs over their own expectations of you? How did it feel to be heard?
• Talk about a time you served someone else. Was there anything about the experience that surprised you? Brainstorm some ways you and continue to serve others.
• Is it easy to follow Jesus in your daily life? What does it mean to you that God is continuing to help you write your story everyday and that God’s story is never finished?
The Yurts are coming! The Yurts are coming!
By Tara Knudson Carl, Director of Operations
At Nebraska Lutheran Outdoor Ministries, we are about to usher in the era of the yurt!
We have purchased four yurts from Freedom Yurt-Cabins in Sidney, Nebraska for The Grove site. These yurts will replace the tipis previously utilized during summer camp at this site.
The yurts are made with solid-insulated wall panels and will have both air-conditioning and heat, allowing them to be used all year.
After being assembled this spring, they will house campers for the first time in summer 2025, with approximately seven campers and one Summer Ministry Team member in each unit.
So, what exactly is a Yurt?
A yurt is a contemporary form of a round tent-style shelter that originated three thousand years ago in Central Asia.
The word yurt meant ‘home’ or ‘dwelling’ in many ancient nomadic languages, as yurts allowed for shelter but were fairly portable.
Tribes in Asia that traveled with their herds found yurts worked well, given they were fairly mobile and provided both suitable housing and protection against the harsh climate.
According to Praveen Krishnaiah in The Out Factory, Genghis Khan and the Mongol empire were responsible for the subsequent increase in yurt use in Asia and Europe, as Khan’s armies used collapsible yurts as they moved from location to location.
The yurts used in early years were typically made from natural materials such as wood, felt, and animal hides.
Vaani Sai in Outdoor Guide indicates that yurts are sturdier and more durable than tents due to their wooden lattice-wall frame and circular shape.
They have maintained their general design and structure over the years, though most modern yurts are now permanently built on a wooden or concrete platform.
In fact, in recent years, as yurts have become more popular for both camping and for “glamping,” (glamorous camping) some even include bathrooms as well as multiple rooms.
Their affordability and practicality have kept them relevant, and in addition to camping, they sometimes serve as vacation houses and tiny homes.
Here at NLOM, we are excited to share that we will be taking reservations for our yurts outside of summer camp for those who want to experience this kind of adventure at Carol Joy Holling Center. We are currently working on the plans and details to make this happen starting this August, so stay tuned!
“The staff had a welcoming attitude and were available at all times. We also noticed the good upkeep of the building, rooms, meeting rooms, and grounds.”
- Southview Baptist Church
“We were able to accomplish our retreat goals successfully. The meeting space was comfortable and spacious, the technology worked seamlessly.”
- Disability Rights Nebraska
“We have consistently been blessed by the hospitality and friendliness of the staff. We love using this facility for our annual Men’s Retreat event, and are looking forward to continuing to do so!”
– [Anonymous] Baptist Church
VOLUNTEERING ENCOURAGED Is there a job for YOU?
By Lisa Stirtz, Volunteer Coordinator
Are we prepared for camp?
There are many items to check off the to-do-list before the campers arrive for camp, and that is where YOU could volunteer with us.
Byron Vogt, a long time volunteer, looks forward to helping get the grounds ready for the campers by mowing, pulling weeds, building, and repairing wooden benches and various things in the cabins.
Byron says, “I love coming out to camp, seeing the kids, and what fun they are having. I also love
to see the smiling faces of the people that work there they make me feel welcome. Riding on the mower is very relaxing and I love being outdoors.” Looking toward spring, we invite you and your family to come participate in Work Day at Carol Joy Holling Camp on May 17.
Last year, we had about 50 volunteers of all ages and abilities participate. Jobs included preparing the swimming pool, putting up the water slide, pulling weeds, folding camp T-shirts, cleaning the cabins, getting mattresses ready for the cabins, and washing the windows.
Matt and Janet Perone come every year to Work Day. During a recent conversation they shared, “Carol Joy Holling Camp holds a special place in our family’s hearts. Our son Frank passed way at the age of 25, and this camp had a great impact on his life. Our family wanted to continue this impact on others’ lives, so we have continued to volunteer for the camp. These things we do here help us remember the great things Carol Joy Holling Camp has provided for our family and helps us make a difference in others’ lives. We have made great friends along the way and are thrilled to watch the impact Christ’s love is making on young people’s lives.”
Volunteers help to make our camp sites the sacred space that they are. The marketing team often invites volunteers to help with mailings.
There are also a number of jobs that need to be completed before the Summer Ministry Team arrives. These range from organizing training materials to creating keepsake pillowcases for their campers to sign.
What amazing ways to not only support campers but the team that helps make Faith:Alive possible!
“These things we do here help us remember the great things Carol Joy Holling Camp has provided for our family and helps us make a difference in others’ lives.”
- Janet Perone
WANT TO HELP?
Do any of these things sound like where you would like to volunteer and help us prepare for the summer? If so please call Lisa Stirtz, Volunteer Coordinator at 402-944-2544 and she will make sure you are connected with the right people.
ONE SPARK,
ENDLESS IMPACT:
JOIN THE FIRE STARTERS CHALLENGE
By Jacob Spilker, Director of Development
Here at NLOM we believe in the power of community and the importance of shared purpose.
Together, we bring our mission—Faith: Alive—to life, ensuring that every camper experiences the impact of faith, friendship, and God’s creation.
This year, we are thrilled to share an exciting opportunity made possible by the Rupert Dunklau Foundation.
Their generous $80,000 catalyst grant is designed to grow our Fire Starters Donor program, the monthly donors who sustain the heart of our ministry.
Recurring gifts are the foundation that makes camp accessible to all families.
Here’s how the challenge works:
• For every new Fire Starters member, the foundation will contribute $1,000.
• For every current Fire Starters member who increases their monthly gift, the foundation will add $500.
This challenge is an incredible opportunity for all of us to come together to ensure camp remains a place where faith comes alive, friendships flourish, and lives are impacted.
Last summer, your support helped NLOM provide more than $1.1 million in financial assistance, allowing campers to experience the joy of friendship, the beauty of creation, and the opportunity to grow in faith.
One of the first to join this challenge was Adam Yankech, a Summer Ministry Team member from 2012–2015. Here’s why Adam chose to become a Fire Starter:
"It's been almost fifteen years since my first summer on staff, and I knew during those years that camp was pivotal in shaping my future goals and relationships. Most of my best friends today I met during my time on the Summer Ministry Team. Camp leaves a positive impact on everyone who experiences it, whether it is campers or staff members. I knew that when I was able to start giving back to NLOM it would be important. Camp continues to give me so much love and joy; that is why I became a Fire Starter."
The Rupert Dunklau Foundation has created an opportunity for us to make an even greater impact—but we can’t do it without you. Your monthly gift, whether as a new Fire Starters member or by increasing your current gift, will help ensure that camp remains a place where faith is alive.
We invite you to join the Fire Starters Challenge today.
Together, we can continue to create opportunities for campers to experience faith, growth, and community.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Together, let’s keep Faith: Alive—one spark at a time.
Sustaining Donor Club
Each year, NLOM serves more than 1,500 summer campers and 20,000 retreat and conference guests at Carol Joy Holling Camp, Conference, and Retreat Center near Ashland and Sullivan Hills Camp near Lodgepole.
An inspiring group of dedicated donors, Fire Starters, encourage others to provide support for NLOM through ongoing gifts. When you give in this way, you provide regular and consistent income to help NLOM kindle the faith of our campers.
What your recurring gift will do for NLOM:
$25/mo. Provide sno kones, friendo string, etc.
$35/mo. Help a child attend camp
$110/mo. Care and feed for a horse
$300/mo. Sponsor a Summer Ministry Team member
To learn more or sign up to be a Fire Starter, scan the QR Code or visit NLOM.org/give
high School
FAITH, FUN, & LATE-NIGHT ADVENTURES
By Laura Stalder, Youth Programs Specialist
Middle School Lock-In
March 7 - 8, 2025
8:00 p.m. - 8:00 a.m.
High School Lock-In
March 21 - 22, 2025
8:00 p.m. - 8:00 a.m.
Scan the QR Code or visit NLOM.org/events to register.
Whether in middle or high school, there is a Lock-In for you!
Get ready for an exciting overnight adventure filled with energy, creativity, and unforgettable memories.
Both lock-ins (Middle School and High School) offer something special for everyone, from high-energy games and creative activities to late-night laughs and plenty of snacks to keep the fun going.
In the heart of the night, we’ll dive into our 2025 summer theme, Plot Twist, through Worship and Bible study, exploring how unexpected turns can lead to meaningful growth and deeper faith.
Don’t miss out – register today, and get ready for a night you’ll never forget!
DISCOVER THE MAGIC OF CAMP
Are you new to the camp world? Do you have a first-time camper and need more information or reassurance? Discover the magic of camp at our Camp Q&A Day!
Our Camp Q&A Day is a wonderful opportunity to explore camp and get your questions answered. The day begins with a guided tour of our sacred spaces, followed by a shared lunch and a Q&A session to learn more about camp life and programs.
Happening at the same time is our Explore Day Camp, giving young campers their own fun-filled experience while adults dive into the behind the scenes. The day wraps up with a meaningful worship service alongside our Explore campers, creating a shared moment of community and connection. It’s the perfect way for everyone to experience camp in one unforgettable day!
To register, scan the QR Code or visit NLOM.org/events
CAMP Q&A DAY
April 26, 2025 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
EXPLORE DAY CAMP
April 26, 2025 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Carol Joy Holling Camp for Elementary Kids
SATURDAY, APRIL 5, 2025
A VIEW WEST SHORES | WATERLOO, NE
Join us at our twelfth annual Heart of Camp Gala as we bring Faith: Alive! by celebrating the work done through Nebraska Lutheran Outdoor Ministries. Your participation and generosity at this year’s Gala enables NLOM to provide opportunities to campers no matter where they are in life. All are welcome here, in these places where we live out faith in ways that show everyone they belong and are unconditionally loved by God.
New this year! We are celebrating the Roarin’ Twenties!
Join us for a fun evening of food, fellowship, prohibition era drinks, auctions, and awards.
A new ticket level, The Speakeasy, allows all to join in the fun of our Heart of Camp Gala.
Scan the QR Code to buy tickets, make donations, and learn more. Or you can visit NLOM.org/gala
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 2024 Choice Dollars is March 31, 2025.
After the deadline, you will not be able to designate your 2024 Choice Dollars to the non-profit organization of your choice.
For more information, visit NLOM.org/give or call our Development Team at 402-944-2544.
JUMPSTART YOUR JOURNEY
All first-time campers attending TrailHead or The Grove can save $100 off their week of camp. ($50 off mini-week)
Use discount code Jump25 when you register for camp at NLOM.org/caroljoyholling
Questions? Contact Sarah, our Registrar, at Registrar@NLOM.org or 402-944-2544.
UPCOMING
MARCH 7 - 8, 2025
lock in high high School School
MARCH 21 - 22, 2025
APRIL 5, 2025
SUMMER CAMP 2025 MAY 17, 2025 JUNE 13 - 15, 2025
JUNE 1 - JULY 24, 2025
SEPTEMBER 19, 2025
JAY NOVICKI DAY CAMP
MARCH 25 OR 26, 2025
APRIL 15 OR 16, 2025
MAY 6 OR 7, 2025
APRIL 12 - 13, 2025
JUNE 26, 2025
JULY 26, 2025
SEPTEMBER 12 - 14, 2025
MARCH 16 - 19, 2025
APRIL 27 - 30, 2025* SEPTEMBER 21 - 24* UFO 2025
*Are currently full, but you can join the waitlist
To view or register for our events and retreats, please scan the QR Code or visit NLOM.org/events/
A Day Retreat at Carol Joy Holling Camp for Elementary Kids
ESCAPE TO THE PEACEFUL NATURE
Sullivan Hills OF
Escape to the peaceful surroundings of Sullivan Hills Camp, where nature’s beauty creates the perfect backdrop for your event, retreat, or gathering. Whether you’re seeking a quiet getaway or a space to reconnect, our serene environment offers the ideal setting to unwind and recharge.
Book your next group or family gathering at Sullivan Hills Camp. Contact Dana, Manager of Event Planning, at DJahn@NLOM.org or 402-944-2544.
