Woodcrest Retreat

A Christian Summer Camp, Campground, & Retreat Ministry

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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.

The summer staff team for 2024 will be posted in early June!

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 9 month 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 21 years old. I live in Stevens 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 seventh 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. I am the Trekkers Director this summer. This is my 2nd summer at Woodcrest. I am a graduate of Ashland Theological Seminary and I love reading and writing. I just finished writing my first book which I hope will be launched in stores and online by Christmas (The book is called “No Loopholes: How to Combat the Justification of Sin”). I live in Ephrata, PA and attend Faith Journey Church. Coffee and dark chocolate are my favorite snacks/drinks and I also enjoy a round of yard/lawn games in my free time away from my book study (my library at home has over 650 books).

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 24 years old. I live in Steven’s and attend Weaverland Church. This is my fifth year serving as a camp counselor here 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

Kora Behrens - Outbound Director

Kora Behrens – Outbound Director

Hello! My name is Kora, so excited to be at camp for my 5th summer! At home in Michigan I enjoy most outdoor activities and spending time with my campus ministry group. This past year God has been teaching me what discipleship looks like and I’m excited to pour into your camper this week! Please keep the whole group in your prayers and join me in asking that God would be glorified by our time together! Thank you!

Elizabeth (Lizzy) Martin - Assistant Day Camp Director

Elizabeth (Lizzy) Martin – Assistant Day Camp Director

Hi! My name is Lizzy. I just graduated from Geneva College where I studied Computer Science, Math, and an Independent major that allowed me to take Spanish classes and study abroad in Jordan. I grew up in Ephrata and attended Blainsport Mennonite Church, but I will be living in Pittsburgh in the fall for a software engineering job. I enjoy running, playing spikeball, reading, and hiking (I recently hiked part of the Camino de Santiago in northern Spain). I worked at Woodcrest as a counselor for 5 years and am so excited to be the assistant daycamp director this year and to spend time with your child. Thank you for sending your child to camp and please pray for us as we seek to grow in faith together.

Day Camp Counselors:

Adam Buckwalter - Counselor

Adam Buckwalter – Counselor

Hi! My name is Adam Buckwalter. I am 16 years old. I am a student at Conestoga Valley High School. I enjoy doing any physical activities such as hockey, biking, etc. I also enjoy spending time around kids and helping them learn about God through teaching in church and camp. I go to New life fellowship church and Living ministries. 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!

Aidan Rees-Yunginger - Counselor

Aidan Rees-Yunginger – Counselor

Hello I’m Aidan, I am going to be turning 18 this September. I live in wernersville in berks County. I attend to EBFC, this is going to be my third year serving Woodcrest as a counselor. I will be a senior at Conrad Weiser High School. I love to work and change lives pointing people like your kids to christ. It is a lot of work but I have a huge passion for this. I ask if you can pray for me and the staff over the summer for strength and wisdom.

Alexis Martin - Counselor

Alexis Martin – Counselor

Hi there my name is Alexis Martin and I am 17 years old! I’m so excited to be with your child this week! 🙂 I live in Reinholds I go to Parkview Mennonite Church, I am also homeschooled. this is my second year volunteering at Woodcrest! I would love if you keep me, the staff, and the campers in your prayers this week! Lets have a safe amazing summer!!

Ana Nichols - Counselor

Ana Nichols – Counselor

(no bio available)

Asher Fogie - Counselor

Asher Fogie – Counselor

Hello! My name is Asher Fogie. I am 18 years old and I live in Ephrata! I just graduated Veritas Academy and I work as a server at the Oregon Dairy Restaurant. 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 3rd 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

Hello! My name is Ben Wentzel and I’m 16 years old. I live in Lancaster Pennsylvania and I go to Crossway Community Church! I also attend the Wildfire youth group and Living Hope Community Church. This will be my first and hopefully not only year at Woodcrest. I am a student at Penn Manor Highschool. I really enjoy listening to music and hanging out with friends in my free time. A verse that really speaks to me is Isaiah 41:13. I’m really excited to help out at camp this year!

Cyprus Zimmerman - Counselor

Cyprus Zimmerman – Counselor

Hi my name is Cyprus Zimmerman. I am 16 years old. I live in Reading PA (Sinking Spring) and I work at Photography 17 & Chick-Fil-A Broadcasting. As a Student I was Homeschooled and graduated a whole year early. I enjoy Photography, Soccer and Running in my spare time. I go to Good Shepherd Community Church and serve there as a sound tech. An also attended Calvert Bible Fellowship as well. A bible verse that means a lot to me is Psalms 1:3 This is my First year serving on staff at Woodcrest Retreat, and I’m looking forward to spending time with your Child/Children as we Learn more about God and Have great outdoor activities. Thank you for making it possible for your child/Children to come to camp!

Dane Edwards - Counselor

Dane Edwards – Counselor

Hi my name is Dane Edwards. I am 16 years old. I live in Ephrata and I am a student at Ephrata High School. I enjoy gaming and hanging out with kids in my spare time. I go to Dove Westgate Church. A bible verse that means a lot to me is Psalms 4:8 as it was the first one I memorized (because my Grandma made me) as a kid. This is my 1st year serving on staff at Woodcrest Retreat (though I have a lot of experience elsewhere via my church and my boatload of younger cousins), 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 Maritn - Counselor

Elisabeth Martin – Counselor

Hello, my name is Elisabeth Martin. I am 16 years old. I live in Reinholds and I just finished my sophomore year at Cocalico High School. I also work at Cocalico Coffee Crafters as a barista and dishwasher. I enjoy riding horses and spending time outside in my spare time. I go to Hinkletown Mennonite church. Some bible verses that mean a lot to me are Romans 8:39 and Proverbs 30:5. This is my first year serving on the Woodcrest Retreat staff, and I am looking forward to spending time with your child as we dive into the God’s word together. I can’t wait for all the exciting times and fun memories that will be made. 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 17 years old. I live in Adamstown and was a student at Ephrata Mennonite School. I enjoy reading, spending time with friends and being outdoors in my free time. I go to Red Run Mennonite Church. A Bible verse that means a lot to me is 1 Corinthians 13:12. 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!

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! I just completed my senior year at Conestoga Valley High School and plan to attend YWAM Lancaster after this summer. This will be my third 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 enjoy being outside – it’s what makes me happiest! I also love journaling, reading, music, plants, and spending time in the word. I attend New Life Fellowship in Ephrata, The Living Room in Ephrata, C4 at Calvary, and I am also a leadership member of my school’s Fellowship of Christian Students Club, of which I am very passionate about. In the future, I’d like to pursue a career in elementary education, and dedicate my life to experiences like camp. As I try to serve as the hands and feet of Jesus, I would appreciate your prayers for myself and everyone at Woodcrest so much! I am so thankful to you for sending your child to camp; I look forward to getting to know them better and I can only hope to impact them in a fraction of the way I was!

Erin Hostetter - Counselor

Erin Hostetter – Counselor

Hey, my name is Erin Hostetter, and I’m 16 years old. I can’t wait to spend the week with your child this summer! I am a student at Cocalico High School and have been working part time at Cocalico Coffee Crafters. I attend Red Run Mennonite, I’m also part of Hinkletown youth group. In my free time I enjoy spending time outside, hiking with my dogs, thrifting and hanging out with friends. I participated in Woodcrests RISE, staff in training program last summer, and this will be my first year on staff at Woodcrest Retreat. I am looking forward to camp, please keep me and the staff in your prayers as we share Gods love to each of our campers!

Ethan Sauder - Counselor

Ethan Sauder – Counselor

Hi my name is Ethan Sauder, and I am 18 years old. I live in Lititz and I work at R & L Siding. I enjoy playing soccer with my freind’s and going fishing in my spare time. I go to New Covenant Mennonite Fellowship church. A bible verse that means a lot to me is Micah 6:8. 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!

Gabe Plotnikov - Counselor

Gabe Plotnikov – Counselor

Hi! My name is Gabe Plotnikov and I’m 22 years old. I live in Fleetwood and I attend The Worship Center in Lancaster. I just graduated from Huntington University this April with a Bachelor’s in Bible and Theology and I will be going to Kutztown University for a Master’s in Clinical Counseling. This is my fourth year serving at here at Woodcrest, 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!

Hannah Kilheffer - Counselor

Hannah Kilheffer – Counselor

Hi my name is Hannah Kilheffer. I am 17 years old. I live in Manheim and I am a student at Hempfield High School. I enjoy running, playing volleyball, spending time outside, and having community with those around me in my spare time. I go to East Petersburg Mennonite church. A bible verse that means a lot to me is Psalm 121:5-8.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!

Havilah Spinetti - Counselor

Havilah Spinetti – Counselor

My name is Havilah Spinetti and I am 16 years old. I attend All Saints Church and I live in Ephrata. This is my second year helping at camp. I can’t wait to help kids learn about the Lord and help them spend time connecting to their surroundings. Thank you parents for allowing us to help your child in their journey with the Lord.

Jason Cassel - Counselor

Jason Cassel – Counselor

Hello my name is Jason Cassel and I am 16 years old. I live in Leola and I am a student at Anchor Christian Academy. I also work part time at Fox Meadows Creamery. I enjoy games and archery in my spare time. I go to Conestoga Church of the Brethren. 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!

Jayna Wilber- Counselor

Jayna Wilber – Counselor

Hey! My name is Jayna Wilber, I am 18 years old and I work at Luther Acres Healthcare center as a Hospitality Aide. I attend Ephrata Bible Fellowship. I graduated from homeschool in 2022. I enjoy playing guitar, singing, and doing sports in my free time. This is my first year serving on staff at Woordcrest Retreat, I had been a camper here all of my childhood, so Woodcrest had a very dear place in my heart. I am so excited to bond with your child this summer and be part of their opportunity to grow closer to God. I’m looking forward to growing with them, while making lasting fun memories! I love the verse from Romans 8:39, “ nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Jenna Zeiset - Counselor

Jenna Zeiset – Counselor

Hi my name is Jenna Zeiset. I am 18 years old. I live in Lititz and I just graduated from Warwick High School and LCCTC this school year. I enjoy spending time with friends and family, doing arts and crafts, and spending time outdoors. I go to Blainsport Mennonite Church in Reinholds. My favorite Bible verse is Luke 22:34 which says, “Father forgive them for they do not know what they are doing.” (Other versions say “Love them anyways”) This is my 3rd year serving at Woodcrest as a day camp counselor! I’m so excited to getting to know your child and building our Christian faith together this summer. I’m so grateful to be your child’s counselor this summer and thank you for making camp possible!

Jeremiah Bates - Counselor

Jeremiah Bates- Counselor

Hi my name is Jeremiah Bates. I am 17 years old. I live in Leola and I am a student at Conestoga Valley High School . I enjoy reselling video games in my spare time. I go to Lancaster Free Evangelical Free Church. A bible verse that means a lot to me is Psalms 51 because it reminds me that though I sin forgiveness is found in Jesus Christ. 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!

Joe Landis - Counselor

Joe Landis – Counselor

Hey! I’m Joseph Landis and am a 17 year old student of Hempfield High School. I work at Flagstream Technologies, an IT support business. In my spare time I enjoy singing, playing guitar (or any instrument I can get my hands on), reading. I attend the Worship Center in New Holland, and serve there on 5-6th grade kids min and am a part of the high school, 56 and main service worship teams. One verse that has been on my mind lately and I have been living out is Proverbs 3:6, “In all your ways know him [the Lord], and he will make your paths straight. This is my first year as a counselor with Woodcrest, and I’m very excited to spend time with your child as we learn about God and have a lot of fun! Your prayers are welcome as me and my fellow counselors work to show the love of Jesus to the campers!

Katrina Martin - Counselor

Katrina Martin – Counselor

Hi! My name is Katrina Martin I am 17 years old. I live in Manheim and I attend the Hub Learning Center. A couple things I enjoy doing are, being with kids, going to the beach and hanging out with friends. I go to Ephrata Community Church. One of my favorite verses that means a lot to me is Joshua 1:9. This is my first time serving at Woodcrest Retreat, I am looking forward to spending time with each child and seeing them grow closer to God and making lots of memories! Thank you for letting your child have an amazing opportunity this summer to come to Woodcrest Retreat.

Landon Stoner - Counselor

Landon Stoner – Counselor

Hi, my name is Landon. I am 15 years old. I live in Lebanon Pa and I am a student at The Paloma School. I enjoy building things, playing board games, and hanging out with my friends in my spare time. I go to Lebanon Christian Fellowship church. A bible verse that means a lot to me is John 1:1-18. 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!

Lauren Hurst - Counselor

Lauren Hurst – Counselor

Hi my name is Lauren Hurst! I am 16 years old.  I live in Denver and I am a student at Cocalico  High School. I enjoy playing softball and ultimate frisbee in my spare time.  I go to Hinkletown Mennonite church.  A bible verse that means a lot to me is Psalm 27:3. This is my second year serving as a camp counselor 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!

Layten Martin - Counselor

Layten Martin – Counselor

Hi my name is Layten Martin I am 15 years old. I live in Reinholds and I am homeschooled. I work at Freedom Ranger hatchery. I enjoy sports. its my first year helping at Woodcrest I am excited to help out with camp. I go to Parkview Mennonite church. I hope your child has fun

Miles Messner - Counselor

Miles Messner – Counselor

Hi my name is Miles Messner. I am 17 years old. I live in Ephrata and I am a student at Crossroads community home school. I enjoy running, working out, riding dirt bikes, and building stuff in my spare time. I go to Christian fellowship church. A bible verse that means a lot to me is When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. Isaiah 43:2. This is my first year serving on staff at Woodcrest Retreat, and I’m looking excited for this summer and meeting your children and thank you for giving me the opportunity to help grow and learn about God together.

Neila Duclona - Counselor

Neila Duclona – Counselor

Hi my name is Neila Duclona. I am 18 years old. I was born and raised in Haiti, now I live in Lancaster. I enjoy learning new skills and reading book in my spare time. I go to St. Anthony of Padua Roman Catholic church. A bible verse that means a lot to me is Proverbs 16: 3 , 9. This is my first year serving as a camp counselor here Woodcrest Retreat. I am so excited to spend time with your child this summer 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 16 years old. I live in Denver, and I am a student at Garden Spot High School. I enjoy playing volleyball and playing board games in my spare time. I go to Weaverland Anabaptist church. A bible verse that means a lot to me is Psalms C.138 V.1-5. 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!

Savannah Watson - Counselor

Savannah Watson – Counselor

Hi my name is Savannah. I am 17 years old. I live in Denver and I am a student at Garden Spot High school, I also work at subway. I enjoy babysitting, baking, spending time with my family, and going to church in my spare time. I attend Lighthouse church. A bible verse that means a lot to me is Jeramiah 29:11, “ For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” 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

Tony Weaver - Counselor

Tony Weaver – Counselor

Hi my name is Tony Weaver. I am 16 years old. I live in Lititz and I am homeschooled and work at Refreshing Mountain. I enjoy playing soccer and spikeball, as well as drawing and running in my spare time. I go to Blue Ball Community church. A bible verse that means a lot to me is 1 Timothy 4:8, “for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come” . 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!

Overnight Camp Counselors:

Alaina Martin - Counselor

Alaina Martin – Counselor

Hello! My name is Alaina Martin, and I am pumped to be here at camp this summer! I am 20 years old and I love to spend time outdoors! You can find me hanging in my hammock reading a good book, or hiking a new adventure to watch the sunset. I currently attend dove westgate church, and will be going to rosedale Bible college in the fall. This is my 3rd summer as a woodcrest summer staffer, and I can’t wait to make some more memories with your kids! Please pray for a blessed week for me us as we grow closer to the Lord in his creation.

Brock Barshinger - Counselor

Brock Barshinger – Counselor

Hi my name is Brock Barshinger and I am 19 years old. I live in Denver Pennsylvania and am currently attending Lancaster Bible College to get degrees in both Education and in Ministry. This will be my third year at camp and my second year at being an overnight counselor, to which I am thrilled to be back. While I enjoy many different hobbies such as singing, theater, and even nerdy comic book stuff, my real passions lie in serving others and ministering to people of all ages with the Gospel. I am an active member of my churches ministry and I hope this summer will be used by God for amazing things. I currently attends Lancaster Evangelical Free Church which is a larger church located out in Litiz PA. A bible verse that means a lot to me is Proverbs 3:5-6 because I am one to quickly relay on my own understanding and I think for many Americans, and especially in an age where so much information is at our finger tips, it is really easy to get overwhelmed by a lack of understanding. This verse reminds me that even when I don’t, or can’t, understand God still does and is always their to help me. 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!

Cameron Cronk - Counselor

Cameron Cronk – Counselor

Hi my name is Cameron Cronk! I am 21 years old and I live in Sellersville PA. I just recently graduated from Cairn University with a degree in Youth Ministry! I love to be outside and my hobbies reflect that, whether it be mountain biking, volleyball, disc golf or anything active I always am in to play a good game. I currently go to Crosspoint Community Church. Proverbs 21:19 is a verse that consistently reigns true in my life, “many are the plans of a man’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.” I strive to be open in wherever the Lord calls me and where his plan is for me. 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!

Carleigh Matz - Counselor

Carleigh Matz – Counselor

Hi my name is Carleigh Matz. I was homeschool and just graduated this year. I love to read books and shoot archery. I also love to do anything with horses. I go to Mount Aetna Bible Church and one of my favorite Bible verses is James 1:2-4. This is my 2nd year as a Camp counselor and I am so excited to meet your children and have lots of fun with them as we learn more about God and have tons of fun. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to get to know your child.

Daniel Lefko - Counselor

Daniel Lefko – Counselor

Hi, my name is Daniel Lefko, 20 years old, and currently a Junior at Lancaster Bible College seeking a degree in Pastoral Ministry. I love running and biking as well as reading, particularly history books and biographies. This will be my first year serving on staff at Woodcrest, and I am so excited to impact the lives of kids throughout this summer! With that said, I ask for your prayers in this endeavor so that our staff would remain steadfast and lives would be changed by the gospel!

Emily Petty - Counselor

Emily Petty – Counselor

Hi! My name is Emily Petty and I am 20 years old. This is my first year working at Woodcrest Retreat! I currently am attending Cairn University as an elementary education major. During the school year, I work as a behavioral health technician with children in public school systems. I spent three years of my life as a missonary kid in Bolivia. I learned so much from that experience, and my perspective was greatly widened. I have been able to see the Lord’s consistency throughout my life, even in the midst of hardship. I enjoy hiking, running, and doing anything outdoors. I attend Chelten Church in Dresher, PA. I serve in the Sunday School there and have really enjoyed it! I’m very excited to get to know your child as we spend a week together. I’m excited to grow with them in the Lord and have fun times with them. Thank you for bringing your child to camp!

Faith Landis - Counselor

Faith Landis – Counselor

Hey! My name is Faith, I’m 19 years old, graduated from Hempfield High School, and own by own vintage clothing business. I enjoy traveling and meeting new people, and I’m so excited to get to know your camper this summer! Some of my hobbies are hiking, rollerblading, swimming, playing guitar, running, skiing, sewing, pole vaulting, and going on random adventures with my friends. A Bible verse that means a lot to me is Romans 12:2 and this is my 3rd year on staff at woodcrest. I attend reality and worship center church and I would love it you keep the staff and the campers in your prayers this summer:)

Nate Cassel- Counselor

Nate Cassel – Counselor

Hello! My name is Nate Cassel and I am 19 years old. I live in Leola and attend Metzler Mennonite church. I enjoy spending time with friends and family, including playing with my nieces and nephew. My other hobbies include playing volleyball, participating in Bible quizzing and in Drama Ministries. This is my 2nd year as a counselor at Woodcrest. I am really looking forward to spending time with your child this summer. I know God has amazing things in store for us at Woodcrest. I would appreciate it if you kept all of the Woodcrest staff in your prayers as we strive to lead like Christ in our interactions with the campers.

Nolan Burkholder- Counselor

Nolan Burkholder – Counselor

Hi! My name is Nolan Burkholder and I am 17 years old. I live on a chicken farm in Brownstown with my parents and 3 siblings. I attend Metzler Mennonite church. This is my first year serving as a counselor at Woodcrest. I am really excited to spend time with your child this summer and I know God has many exciting things in store for this summer at Woodcrest. The reason I wanted to be a camp counselor is because in my 8 years of attending Woodcrest camps as a child it was always the highlight of my summer and I want to give your child that same experience. I would love if y’all would keep all of the staff at Woodcrest in your prayers. Thank you so much for giving us this amazing opportunity with your child.

Symantha Dienner - Counselor

Symantha Dienner – Counselor

Hi my name is Symantha, and I am 17 years old. I love art, music, and anything with lots of details! I go to Petra church and attend Ephrata Community Church on occasion. A bible verse that means a lot to me is 2 Samuel 6:22, in the context of worshipping the Lord. It is a good reminder to me that God deserves way more than I could ever give him. This is my first year serving on staff at Woodcrest Retreat, and I am so excited to be here! I have 6 brothers, 5 of them younger than me, so rest assured knowing that I can handle chaos well. I’m looking forward to spending time with your child as we learn more about God and have lots of fun times 🙂

Trekkers Counselors:

Brennan Hurst - Counselor

Brennan Hurst – Counselor

Hi my name is Brennan. I am 18 years old. I live in Ephrata and I just finished high school. This is my 4th year serving on staff at Woodcrest. In my spare time I enjoy fitness, basketball, and singing. I go to Hinkletown Mennonite church. A bible verse that means a lot to me is Luke 11:9-10 And I tell you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened. I’m so excited to get to know your child.

Kailey Hurst - Counselor

Kailey Hurst – Counselor

Hi my name is Kailey Hurst. I am 18 years old, and I live in Denver. I just graduated from Cocalico High School, and when I’m not at camp I work at New Holland Coffee Co. I enjoy reading, got on trips with my friends, and watching movies with my family in my spare time. I go to Hinkletown Mennonite church. Some Bible verses that mean a lot to me are Psalm 139:13-14, “For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.” This is my 4th year serving as a counselor 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!

Micah Martin - Counselor

Micah Martin – Counselor

Hello parents! My name is Micah Martin, and I am so excited to work with your kids this week! I am currently a high school math teacher at Lititz Area Mennonite School, and have previously been a counselor, director, and full-time staff member at Woodcrest Retreat. My interests include sports, music, and travelling. My favorite thing about Woodcrest is the opportunity to speak truth into the lives of each camper. Connecting with each camper and helping them to understand their worth is so important to me. I hope that we have lots of fun and grow together this week!

Tianna Musser - Counselor

Tianna Musser – Counselor

Hi my name is Tianna.  I am 22 years old, live in Manheim and attend Erb Mennonite Church. I recently graduated from the Planted Gap year program where I grew in my relationship with God through Bible classes, outdoor adventures in God’s creation and hands-on farming. I enjoy being outside in nature, hanging out with friends, playing piano, and photography. A Bible verse that has encouraged me this year is Proverbs 3:5-6 which says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” This is my second year serving on staff at Woodcrest Retreat and I’m very excited to show your child the love of Jesus as we learn about him and have fun together! Also I love connecting with people so feel free to come find me and say hi!