Woodcrest Retreat

A Christian Summer Camp, Campground, & Retreat Ministry

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Meet the Summer Team

Meet the Summer Staff Team!

Woodcrest Retreat is a non-profit, Christian organization located in Ephrata, PA. Our summer staff is committed to bringing excellent day and overnight camp programs to our community. Our vision is to see lives impacted for Christ and we feel privileged to be able to do that through our work.

Summer Leadership Team:

Adam Fox - Program Director

Adam Fox – Program Director

I started working at Woodcrest in the summer of 2014 and moved into the full-time position of Summer Camp Director in 2017. In the summer you will find me in colorful bandanas and silly socks. I’m Lancaster county born and raised. I love the ministry at Woodcrest and I’m inspired by the community that exists to support what we do here. My passion is to disciple summer staff as they develop deep faith that results in unconditional love for the campers we serve. I attend Hinkletown Mennonite Church in Ephrata. My favorite verse is John 10:10(b) “But I have come to give life, and life to the full.” I am married to my amazing wife Tasha, who is also no stranger to camp life, previously serving on summer staff for 5 years. We have a 1.5 old son who will make a cute appearance on camp every now and then as well.

Braden Buckwalter - Day Camp Director

Braden Buckwalter – Day Camp Director

Hello! My name is Braden Buckwalter. I am 22 years old. I live in Lititz and I work at PaulB’s when not at camp. I enjoy disc golf, making music, and softball in my spare time. A bible passage that means a lot to me is 1 John 1:5-10. This is my eighth year serving on staff at Woodcrest Retreat. I’m looking forward to the opportunity to learn more about God and have lots of fun times along side your child. Thank you for making it possible for them to come to camp!

Corey Meyers - Trekkers Director

Corey Meyers – Trekkers Director

Hello, my name is Corey Meyers and I am the Trekkers Director. This is my third year at Woodcrest and second year in this position. I am so excited to spend time with your child this summer. God is on the move! Some fun facts about me are I love tacos, coffee, and JESUS!! I work at Lancaster County Christian School and I am also a published author to my book “No Loopholes: How to Combat the Justification of Sin” My book was published late in 2023 so it is still getting off the ground.

Joel Wayde - Assistant Program Director

Joel Wayde – Assistant Program Director

First as a camper, then summer staff member, and now a member of the full-time staff, Woodcrest has long been a special place to me. After serving on summer staff since 2018, I began a new role here in August of 2022. As Assistant Program Director, I’m happy to assist you with program registration, School of Wonder classes, and helping to ensure that all of our programs run smoothly. I believe in Woodcrest’s mission of bringing the Kingdom of God to earth both in our little corner of Ephrata and to the ends of the earth. A favorite passage of mine is Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.” My prayer for Woodcrest is that it would always remain a place for young people to encounter God and grow in their faith, being given opportunities to serve and being equipped to bring the Kingdom of God wherever they go. I previously attended E-Town College; moved from Elizabethtown to Stevens in 2022 where I currently reside with several Woodcrest alumni who all moved in together.

Joel Wenger - Overnight Camp Director

Joel Wenger – Overnight Camp Director

Hi! My name is Joel Wenger and I am 25 years old. I live in Ephrata and attend Cocalico Community Church. This is my sixth year serving at Woodcrest. I am so excited to spend time with your child this summer and I know God has amazing things in store for this summer at Woodcrest. I would love if you would keep me along with the rest of the staff in your prayers this summer as we seek to share Gods love with each camper we interact with. Thank you for giving us this amazing opportunity with your child

Alaina Martin - Outbound Director

Alaina Martin – Outbound Director

Hi! My name is Alaina Martin and this is my 4th summer at woodcrest! I graduated from cocalico high school in 2021 and am currently attending Bible college at rosedale Bible college in Ohio. I attend Dove Westgate church in Ephrata when I am at home. I love to spend all my time outside, with friends in a hammock or tenting for a night under the stars. I have a heart for missions and a heart for worship. I can’t wait to see the memories that will be made on this year’s outbound trips! Pray for our safety, and wild memories that last a lifetime.

Jenna Zeiset - Assistant Day Camp Director

Jenna Zeiset – Assistant Day Camp Director

Hey! My name is Jenna Zeiset and I am 19 years old. I live in Lititz and over the school year I work as an Assistant Teacher at a local child care center. I enjoy spending time with friends and family, spending time outside, and working with different children ministries at my church. I attend Blainsport Mennonite Church. One of my favorite Bible verses is Luke 23:34. It reminds me that no matter how hard it gets or how broken we are God always loves us! This will be my 4th year serving at Woodcrest and stepping into a new role as Assistant Day Camp Director. I am so excited to meet new campers this summer and build further relationships with ones from the past. I know God has so many plans for the campers and for at Woodcrest this summer! Keep me and other staff members in your prayers as we strengthen each campers relationship with God and encourage one another this summer! Thanks!

Andrew Mylin - RISE Staff-in-Training Director

Andrew Mylin – RISE Staff-in-Training Director

Hello, my name is Andrew. This is my 6th summer serving at Woodcrest. When I am not having a blast at camp, I can be found cheering on my Philadelphia Phillies, fishing, or spending time with my friends and family. I recently graduated with a bachelor’s in Leadership Studies with a concentration in Christian ministry and minor in Biblical Studies. I will be getting married in September to my lovely fiancé, Kimmy. I am super excited to serve the campers and staff members this summer as we seek to spread the love of Christ to all who come to Woodcrest.

 

Day Camp Counselors:

Abigail VanderPlate - Counselor

Abigail VanderPlate – Counselor

Hello my name is Abigail Vanderplate.  I am 17 years old.  I live in Stevens, PA and I am a student at Cocalico High School and I am going into my senior year.  I enjoy painting and being outside as well as spending time with my family. A Bible verse that means a lot to me is Philippians 4:6-8 which says, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication. Let your request be made known to God, and the peace which surpasses understanding will guard your hearts.” This is my 2nd year serving on staff at Woodcrest Retreat, and I’m looking forward to spending time with your child as we learn more about God and have lots of fun times. My desire is to make an impact and share with each one the love of Christ and to share that they are fearfully and wonderfully made. Thank you for making it possible for your child to come to camp!

Adam Buckwalter - Counselor

Adam Buckwalter – Counselor

Hi my name is Adam and I am 17 years old. I live in Akron and I am a going to be a student at thaddeus Stevens. I enjoy playing hockey and biking in my spare time. I go to 3 different churches within Ephrata. This is my 3rd year serving on staff at Woodcrest Retreat, and I’m looking forward to spending time with your child as we learn more about God and have lots of fun times. Thank you for making it possible for your child to come to camp!

Adelyn Elmer- Counselor

Adelyn Elmer- Counselor

Hi! My name is Adelyn Elmer, and I am 17 years old. I live in Lititz PA and I am a student at Warwick High School. I enjoy reading, listening to music, going for walks, playing with my dogs, and hanging out with friends in my spare time. I go to Lititz Trinity church, and have gone there my whole life. A bible verse that means a lot to me is Jeremiah 29:11 because it shows that God sees you as worthy and has a plan for your life. This is my first year serving on staff at Woodcrest Retreat, and I’m looking forward to spending time with your child as we learn more about God and have lots of fun times. Thank you for making it possible for your child to come to camp!

Aidan Rees-Yunginger - Counselor

Aidan Rees-Yunginger – Counselor

Hello, my name is Aidan Rees Yunginger and I am 18 years old. Right now I live in Wernersville and just recently graduated from Conrad Weiser High school. This will be my forth year working here at Woodcrest retreat. Even though I have been at this for awhile now It is still a very challenging job so I ask for prayer. I am so excited to see how God moves through me while I spend time with the kids! Thank you for this opportunity and your support.

Alexis Martin- Counselor

Alexis Martin – Counselor

Hey my name is Alexis and I am 18 years old. This is my 3rd year serving at Woodcrest as a day camp counselor. I live Reinholds and I attend Richland Bible Chaple. I’m so excited to spend the week with your child and I know Hid has big things planned for summer camp this year. I would appreciate if you would keep me and the rest of the camp staff in your prayers this summer. Thank you for allowing us to have this opportunity to get to know your child through camp.

Anna Hollinger - Counselor

Anna Hollinger – Counselor

Hi, my name is Anna! I am 17 years old. I live in Elizabethtown and I am a student at Elizabethtown Area High School. I enjoy playing cello and piano in my spare time, as well as participating in color guard and theatre. I go to Mount Calvary Church. A bible verse that means a lot to me is Joshua 1:9, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” It reminds us we need not fear for the Lord is with us wherever we go. This is my 2nd year serving on staff at Woodcrest Retreat, and I’m looking forward to spending time with your child as we have lots of fun times and study God’s word. Thank you for allowing your child to come to camp!

Anna May - Counselor

Anna May – Counselor

Hi, My name is Anna May and I am 18 years old. I am from the Lititz area and attend LEFC in Lititz. This is my first year as a daycamp counselor. A Bible verse that means a lot to me is John 13:7 as it reminds me that I may not yet know where my life I going, but God knows every detail. I look forward to sharing God’s love with each child that comes to camp this year

Asher Fogie - Counselor

Asher Fogie – Counselor

Hello! My name is Asher Fogie. I am 19 years old and I live in Ephrata! I’m attending Lancaster Bible College and I work at SecureStrux in their digital marketing department. I enjoy running, hanging out with friends, and almost anything outdoors! I attend Calvary Church in Lancaster. I love the verse Philippians 4:12! This is my 4th year serving on staff at Woodcrest Retreat, and I’m so glad God has given me the opportunity to spend time with your child and impact them in a positive way! Thank you for making it possible for your child to come to camp!

Ben Wentzel - Counselor

Ben Wentzel – Counselor

Hi my name is Ben Wentzel and I am 17 years old. I’m a student at Penn Manor High School. Some of my hobbies are lifting and listening to music. I attend Crossway Community Church and a bible verse that sticks out to me the most is Isaiah 41:13. This is my 2nd year at Woodcrest and I look forward to serving and praising the lord together in his kingdom. Thank you for allowing me to show your kid all that god has to offer!

Brenton Gingrich - Counselor

Brenton Gingrich – Counselor

Hi my name is Brenton Gingrich. I am 17 years old. I live in Lititz and I work at Flyway Excavating. I enjoy riding dirt bike and hanging out with friends in my spare time. I go to Hinkletown Mennonite church. A bible verse that means a lot to me is Jeremiah 29:11. This is my 1st year serving on staff at Woodcrest Retreat, and I’m looking forward to spending time with your child as we learn more about God and have lots of fun times. Thank you for making it possible for your child to come to camp!

Caleb Shaffer- Counselor

Caleb Shaffer – Counselor

Hi my name is Caleb. I am 22 years old. I live in Elizabethtown and I work at Zook Cabins. I enjoy writing stories and playing my mandolin and banjo in my spare time. I go to Community Bible Church. A bible verse that means a lot to me is 1 Corinthians 2:12. This is my first year serving on staff at Woodcrest Retreat, and I’m looking forward to spending time with your child as we learn more about God and have lots of fun times. Thank you for making it possible for your child to come to camp!

Christopher Straubel - Counselor

Christopher Straubel – Counselor

Hi! My name is Christopher Straubel. I am 19 years old and am a student at Lebanon Valley College. This is my first year serving on the staff at Woodcrest Retreat. I enjoy playing board games, hiking, and playing the trumpet in my spare time. I live in Ephrata and go to Mission Church. A bible verse that means a lot to me is Jeremiah 29:11. I am very excited to spend time with your child and learn about God as well as participate in some fun! Thank you for making it possible for your child to come to camp!

Cole Weaver - Counselor

Cole Weaver – Counselor

Hello my name is Cole. I am 16 years old. I live in Mohnton pa and I am a student at Weaver Academy of excellence AKA homeschool and work at Goods feed mill. I enjoy sports, videos games, reading and writing books. I go to Blainsport Mennonite church. a Bible verse that means a lot to me is Ecclesiastes 7:14. this is my 2nd year serving at Woodcrest Retreat, and I’m looking forward to spending time with your child as we learn more about God and have lots of fun times making memories. Thank you for giving us this amazing opportunity to teach and learn from your child at camp this year!

Elena Hurst - Counselor

Elena Hurst – Counselor

Hi my name is Elena Hurst. I am 21 about to be 22 years old. I live in New Holland and I went to high school at Linville Hill Christian school. I enjoy singing and playing guitar in my spare time. I go to New Life Fellowship church. A bible verse that means a lot to me is Ephesians 1:7. This is my 7th year serving on staff at Woodcrest Retreat, and I’m looking forward to spending time with your child as we learn more about God and have lots of fun times. Thank you for making it possible for your child to come to camp!

Elisabeth Martin- Counselor

Elisabeth Martin – Counselor

Hi my name is Elisabeth Martin. I am 17 years old and I attend Hinkletown Mennonite Church. I live in Reinholds and I am a student at Cocalico and I work at Cocalico Coffee Crafters as a barista. I enjoy reading in my spare time. A bible verse that means a lot to me is Psalm 34:4. This is my 2nd year serving on staff at Woodcrest Retreat, and I’m looking forward to spending time with your child as we learn more about God and have lots of fun times. Thank you for making
it possible for your child to come to camp!

Elsa Weaver - Counselor

Elsa Weaver – Counselor

Hi my name is Elsa Weaver. I am 19 years old. I live in Adamstown, PA and I am a student at Albright College. I enjoy reading, drawing, and playing with my siblings in my spare time. I attend Red Run Mennonite church. A bible verse that has meant a lot to me this year is 1 Corinthians 13:12, because it reminds me of the close relationship with Jesus we look forward to in heaven. This is my second year serving on staff at Woodcrest Retreat, and I’m looking forward to spending time with your child as we learn more about God and have lots of fun times. Thank you for making it possible for your child to come to camp!

Emiyah Rohrer - Counselor

Emiyah Rohrer – Counselor

Hi! My name is Emiyah Rohrer and I am 17 years old. I live in Philadelphia and attend Oxford Circle Mennonite Church. I am also a student at George Washington Carver, and enjoy music and writing. This is my second year serving as a counselor here a Woodcrest. I am so excited to spend a week with your child this summer and I know God has amazing things in store for this summer at Woodcrest. I would love if you would keep me along with the rest of the staff in your prayers this summer as we seek to share God’s love with each camper we interact with. Thank you for giving us this awesome opportunity with your child.

Erin Hostetter - Counselor

Erin Hostetter – Counselor

Hey! My name is Erin Hostetter and I am 17 years old. I just finished my junior year at Cocalico High School, and work part time at Cocalico Coffee Crafters. I love to spend my free time doing things outside like hiking, or hanging out with friends. A verse that means a lot to me is Galatians 2:20, a good reminder of who I am living for. This will be my second year serving on staff at Woodcrest. I’m so excited to meet your kid and have fun at camp this summer as we learn about God!

Havilah Spinetti - Counselor

Havilah Spinetti – Counselor

Hello! My name is Havilah Spinetti and I am 17 years old. I live in Ephrata and I attend All Saints Church. I am a student at Pathways-A Community Homeschool. In my free time I like to spend time outside and with friends. A Bible verse that means a lot to me is Isaiah 41:10 “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you;I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” I am excited to be able to serve this summer. I am thankful that you are giving me this opportunity to spend time with your children. I would really appreciate if you could keep me and the rest of the staff in your prayers this summer.

Jaiden Horst - Counselor

Jaiden Horst – Counselor

Hi! My name is Jayna Wilber I am 18 years old. I attend Ephrata Bible Fellowship church. I graduated highschool in 2022, and am now working full time as a CNA. This is my second year being on Woodcrest Staff, I had been a camper here since I was in Kindergarten. I am very excited to meet you and your children, and share the good word of God with them, and grow in faith together through this time.

Jayna Wilber - Counselor

Jayna Wilber- Counselor

Hi! My name is Jayna Wilber I am 18 years old. I attend Ephrata Bible Fellowship church. I graduated highschool in 2022, and am now working full time as a CNA. This is my second year being on Woodcrest Staff, I had been a camper here since I was in Kindergarten. I am very excited to meet you and your children, and share the good word of God with them, and grow in faith together through this time.

Jonathan Flemming - Counselor

Jonathan Flemming – Counselor

Jonathan is 21 years old. He lives in Lancaster PA and was a student at Olive Branch Christian Academy in Ephrata PA. This is his first year serving as a camp counselor at Woodcrest. Jonathan is a passionate and dedicated individual who has always found joy in working with children. Jonathan brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to the summer camp team. Jonathan has developed strong skills in creating engaging activities and fostering a safe and inclusive environment for all campers. Every child has unique talents and potential. Jonathan strives to nurture these qualities through positive reinforcement, learning, and a supportive community. Thank you for making it possible for your child to come to camp!

Kara Burkholder - Counselor

Kara Burkholder – Counselor

Hello! My name is Kara Burkholder and I am 16 years old. i live in New Holland and attend Hinkletown Mennonite Church and Hinkletown Mennonite School. I enjoy diving deep into God’s Word and making art with the gifts He has given me. This is my second year at Woodcrest Retreat, but my first year serving as a counselor. I am very excited to spend time with your child as we learn more about God through this fun experience! Thank you for making it possible for your child to come to camp this summer!

Katelyn Newswanger- Counselor

Katelyn Newswanger – Counselor

Hi! My name is Katelyn Newswanger and I am 20 years old. I live in Ephrata and attend Parkview Mennonite Church. Over the school year, I work at Ephrata Mennonite school as a teachers aid/tutor, as well as coaching girls volleyball! My hobbies include going to the beach, playing volleyball, and playing pickleball. This is my first year serving as staff at Woodcrest Retreat. I’m looking forward to spending time with your child as we learn more about God and have a lot of fun! Thank you for making it possible for your child to come to camp!

Kyra Ramirez - Counselor

Kyra Ramirez – Counselor

Hi, my name is Kyra and I am 17 years old! I live in Ephrata and I am a student at Ephrata High School. I enjoy reading, listening, to music, and singing in my spare time. I go to New Life Fellowship church. A bible verse that means a lot to me is James 1:19. This is my 1st year serving on staff at Woodcrest Retreat, and I’m looking forward to spending time with your child as we learn more about God and have lots of fun times. Thank you for making it possible for your child to come to camp!

Lauren Hurst - Counselor

Lauren Hurst – Counselor

Hi! My name is Lauren Hurst. I am 17 years old and attend Hinkletown Mennonite Church. This is my third year serving as a day camp counselor here at woodcrest. I live in Denver and am a student at Cocalico High School. In the fall I will be going to Lancaster County Career and Technology Center for the Medical Assistant program they offer there. I enjoy hiking, camping, acting and spending time with friends. A bible verse that means a lot to me is Psalm 26:3. I am looking forward to spending time with your child as we learn more about God. We will have lots of fun and offer a bunch of new opportunities. Thank you for making this possible for your child to experience!

Lawrence Halbfoerster - Counselor

Lawrence Halbfoerster – Counselor

Hi! My name is Lawrence Halbfoerster and this is my first summer ever working at Woodcrest. I am 17 years old and attend Impact church in Canton. I love God, I love running, and I love pierogies. I am so excited to have the opportunity to spend time with your child this summer and I know God is gonna do amazing things through his servants at Woodcrest this summer! Matthew 18:20 says “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” So with the reassurance from the word you can know I won’t be the only one with your child god will be there too. May God bless you for sending your child to camp this summer.

Layten Martin- Counselor

Layten Martin – Counselor

Hi my name is Layten I’m 16 years old I work for freedom ranger hatchery this is my second year volunteering I’m looking forward to having a good time.

Liz Amulada - Counselor

Liz Amulada – Counselor

Hello! My name is Elizabeth (Liz) Amudala and I am 16 years old. This is my first year as a full time daycamp counselor and I am so excited to meet your child and help them grow in their faith. I live in Adamstown and attend Cocalico Community Church. Please keep me and my fellow counselors in your prayers as we go through this summer spending time with your child and other campers while teaching them about God’s love for them. Thank you for bringing your child to Woodcrest!

Lydia Lehman- Counselor

Lydia Lehman – Counselor

Hi!! My name is Lydia Lehman and I’m 17 years old! I live in Stevens and attend Ephrata Community Church. I went to Woodcrest camp every summer as a kid and now this is my first summer as a counselor! I enjoy playing tennis, picking flowers, doing hair and working at Fox Meadows creamery. I’m so excited to be spending time with your child as we learn more about God and have lots of fun times. I’d love if you could keep me and the rest of the woodcrest staff in your prayers as we seek to share God’s love with each camper! Thank you for giving us this amazing opportunity with your child.

Naomi Grace Byers - Counselor

Naomi Grace Byers – Counselor

Hi my name is Naomi Grace Byers! I’m a 2023 homeschool graduate furthering my love for Christ while dancing with Diffusion Dance Company as an Apprentice Dancer. I live in Lititz, PA as the second oldest of a family of 9 and attend Pursuit Church. This is my first time serving at Woodcrest this summer and I’m super excited to see the Lord work in all of the kids and how I get to make an impact in their lives! Some things I enjoy doing is working at Hearth & Harrow Cafe along with teaching piano lessons to my 2 students. I love to bake, sew, babysit, play the keyboard on my worship team, and being an assistant ballet teacher. God has remarkable things in store for your child this summer and I can’t wait to experience it with them! Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days.” Psalm 90:14.

Nelia Duclona- Counselor

Nelia Duclona – Counselor

Hello! My name is Neila Duclona, and I’m 19 years old. I live in Lancaster and I’m a student at St Joseph University in Lancaster.I enjoy doing crochet, reading and dance in my spare time. I go to St. Anthony of Padua Roman Catholic Church. A bible verse that means a lot to me is Psalm 28:7 . This is my second year serving on staff at Woodcrest Retreat, and I’m looking forward to spending time with your child as we learn more about God and have lots of fun times.Thank you for making it possible for your child to come to camp!

Ryan Lambert - Counselor

Ryan Lambert – Counselor

Hi, my name is Ryan Lambert. I am 17 years old. I live in Denver, and I am a student at Garden Spot High School and attend CTC at Mount Joy. I enjoy volleyball, disc golfing, and construction in my spare time. I go to Weaverland Anabaptist church. A bible verse that means a lot to me is Galatians 5:16. This is my 2nd year serving on staff at Woodcrest Retreat, and I’m looking forward to spending time with your child as we learn more about God and have lots of fun times. Thank you for making it possible for your child to come to camp!

Tori Eberly - Counselor

Tori Eberly – Counselor

Hi! My name is Tori Eberly. I am 17 years old. I live in Reinholds and I am homeschooled. I enjoy reading and spending time outside in my spare time. I go to Indiantown Mennonite Church. A bible verse that means a lot to me is Jeremiah 29:11. This is my first year serving on staff at Woodcrest Retreat, and I’m looking forward to spending time with your child as we learn more about God and have lots of fun times. Thank you for making it possible for your child to come to camp!

William Weaver - Counselor

William Weaver – Counselor

Hi my name is William Weaver and I am 18 years old. I live in Akron and am currently attending Ephrata Community Church. I have been homeschooled my whole life and just recently graduated, I am currently employed at Lancaster County Marine and am planning on furthering my education in the fall at college. I really enjoy spending time in God’s beautiful creation and am eager to encourage and help your child grow and seek after the Lord. God has done amazing things in my life and in His goodness I know he will do amazing things in the life of your child! I would really appreciate it if you would remember me and the other staff members in your prayers this summer as we seek to glorify Christ and show His love to the campers! Thank you for giving us this awesome opportunity to minister to your child!

 

Overnight Camp Counselors:

Brock Barshinger - Counselor

Brock Barshinger – Counselor

Hi! My name is Brock Barshinger and this year I am going to be working as one of our male overnight counselors. I am 20 years old and this summer will be my 4th year working on staff at Woodcrest. I am currently a student at Lancaster Bible College perusing a degree in youth ministry and early childhood education there. I live in Denver Pennsylvania (which is in Lancaster county for anyone that does not know) and graduated from Garden Spot High School in 2022. Some hobbies of mine include studying theology, participating in theater, playing net and racket sports (i.e. volleyball, tennis, badminton), and just having fun!! I attend church at LEFC and have been their for almost 18 years. A Bible verse that means a lot to me is Proverbs 3:5-6 which talks about trusting God even when it is hard to understand Him. I struggle with understanding the world and this verse is always a good reminder for me of what it means to have a reasonable faith in Christ. This summer will be a blast and I am so excited for what God is going to do through us as a staff this year! Can’t wait to meet/see you all at Camp!

Carissa Weaver - Counselor

Carissa Weaver – Counselor

I am 17 years old. I live in Stevens and I attend Indiantown Mennonite Church. I enjoy going on hikes with my dog in my spare time. A bible verse that means a lot to me is Philippians 4:6. This is my first year serving on staff at
Woodcrest Retreat, and I’m looking forward to spending time with your child as
we learn more about God and have lots of fun times. Thank you for making
it possible for your child to come to camp!

Cyprus Zimmerman - Counselor

Cyprus Zimmerman – Counselor

Hi my name is Cyprus Zimmerman. I am 18 years old.  I live in sinking Springs Pa and I enjoy driving and being with friends in my spare time. I attend The Living Room church in Ephrata. A bible verse that means a lot to me is Psalms 1:3 “He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers.” This is my 2nd year serving on staff at Woodcrest Retreat, and I’m looking forward to spending time with your child as we learn more about God and have lots of fun times. Thank you for making it possible for your child to come to camp!

Emily Buckwalter - Counselor

Emily Buckwalter – Counselor

Hello, my name is Emily Buckwalter. I am beyond excited to serve at Woodcrest Retreat this summer and I cannot wait to see what God has in store for your child! This will be my fourth year working at camp. I’ve been a camper from a young age and the undeniable presence of God, amazing people who’ve impacted my life and beauty of being surrounded by His creation have inspired me to serve here as a counselor. In my free time I mostly enjoy being outside – it’s what makes me happiest! I attend New Life Fellowship Church. Recently I did a 6 month Discipleship Training School through YWAM and after this summer, I will begin a 9 month School of Biblical Studies with them. Thank you for your support and prayers as I serve this summer! I am so grateful to you for sending your child to camp; I look forward to getting to know them better and pouring in to them!

Faith Landis - Counselor

Faith Landis – Counselor

Hi! My name is Faith Landis and I’m so excited to spend time and create meaningful memories with your child this summer. I’m 20 years old and this is my 4th year of working at camp after attending Woodcrest as a camper for several years! I absolutely love the playful spirit that children have and hope to encourage them in their walk with the Lord. I graduated from Hempfield High School and currently sell vintage clothing when I’m not working at camp. In my free time I love hiking, traveling, playing guitar, running, taking pictures, rollerblading, driving my scooter and so many other things, and I attend Reality Church on sundays. Please keep Woodcrest and the staff in your prayers and thank you for letting us be a part of your child’s summer 🙂

Jeremiah Bates - Counselor

Jeremiah Bates – Counselor

Hi my name is Jeremiah Bates. I am 18 years old. I live in Leola Pennsylvania and I am about to be a student at pensacola christian college. I enjoy video in my spare time. I go to Lancaster evangelical free church. A bible verse that means a lot to me is is Romans 8:1 because after Paul in chapter 6 says we should not continuing sin and then in 7 says i keep sinning who will save me from this body of death in 8:1 he says therefore there is now no condemnation for those in christ Jesus . This is my 3rd year serving on staff at Woodcrest Retreat, and I’m looking forward to spending time with your child as we learn more about God and have lots of fun times. Thank you for making it possible for your child to come to camp!

Nolan Burkholder - Counselor

Nolan Burkholder – Counselor

I am 18 years old and this is my second year at an overnight counselor. I am excited to spend time with your child and share the wonder of God!

Season Jarvis - Counselor

Season Jarvis – Counselor

Hey, my name is Season Jarvis I am 19 years old. I live in Narvon and I am a student at Bob Jones University in South Carolina. I go to Twin Valley Bible Chapel. I enjoy sports, reading (especially my Bible), spending time with family and friends, and doing anything outdoors. A Bible verse I strive to live out is John 3:30. This is my first year serving on staff at Woodcrest Retreat. I am so excited to spend time with your child this summer, as we learn more about God and have lots of fun times. I believe God can and will use Woodcrest in awesome ways this year. Thank you for making it possible for your child to come to camp!

Teague (Sunshine) Swarr- Counselor

Teague (Sunshine) Swarr – Counselor

Hi my name is Teague Swarr, but many campers and staff refer to me as “Sunshine”. I am 19 years old. I live in Ephrata and I was a student at Ephrata Highschool. I enjoy guitar, fishing, and hiking in my spare time. I go to Indiantown Mennonite church. A bible verse that means a lot to me is Isaiah 52:11-12. This is my first year serving on staff at Woodcrest Retreat, and I’m looking forward to spending time with your child as we learn more about God and have lots of fun times. Thank you for making it possible for your child to come to camp! It is a huge blessing and honor to be trusted with these kiddos. I hope to serve them well and convey the Father’s heart to them. God bless!

 

Trekkers Counselors:

Ana Nichols - Counselor

Ana Nichols – Counselor

Ciao! My name is Ana. I am 19 years old and am from Romania. I am a Nursing student at Eastern University’s Templeton Honors College in Philly. I enjoy kayaking, surfing, traveling, and being on my worship team at Vineyard Church Chester Springs. A Bible verse that means a lot to me is Romans 8:38-39 and this is my 4th year on staff at Woodcrest. I am so excited to spend time with your kid this summer as we learn about God and have tons of fun.Thank you so much for making it possible for your child to come to camp this summer!!

Brennan Hurst - Counselor

Brennan Hurst – Counselor

Hello, my name is Brennan Hurst. I am 19 years old. I live in Ephrata and go to Hinkletown Mennonite Church. This will be my fifth year as a counselor at Woodcrest. In my spare time I enjoy basketball, lifting, playing guitar, and singing. I’m very excited to have the opportunity to shine the light of Jesus. I ask you to please pray for me and others who are serving here. Pray that our attitudes would reveal Jesus. Thank you for giving us an opportunity with your child.

Faith VanHanxleden - Counselor

Faith VanHanxleden- Counselor

Hey! My name is Faith Vanhanxleden and I’m 18 years old, and attend Calvary chapel Lebanon. This past year I just spent 6 months in a discipleship trading school and spent 2 months doing missions in Thailand ! This is my second year serving as full time staff at Woodcrest. Some hobbies of mine include running, sports and traveling. I am so excited to get to pour into your children this summer and hopefully give them an awesome summer camp experience!

Katrina Martin- Counselor

Katrina Martin – Counselor

Hi my name is Katrina Martin. I am 18 years old, I live in Manhiem and I attend Ephrata community church. This is my second year doing Woodcrest. I enjoy hanging out with friends and family and going to the beach in my spare time! A bible verse that means a lot to me is Psalms 23:4. This summer I’m excited to spend time working to connect with each of your children!

Summer Leadership Team
Day Camp Counselors
Overnight Camp Counselors
Trekkers Counselors
Woodcrest Retreat

A Christian Summer Camp, Campground, & Retreat Ministry

Contact

225 Woodcrest Rd. Ephrata, PA 17522

(717) 738-2233

info@WoodcrestRetreat.org

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