The best job you’ll ever have

The 2016 Wanakee Staff

I spent every summer from ages 18 to 24 working at summer camps. Those long weeks hold some of my favorite memories; a matchless sense of shared purpose and camaraderie, powerful friendships, heartfelt belly laughs, and personal growth. Those were summers full of extraordinary challenges and even greater successes.

My unsolicited opinion: the number of “summers” available to most people is small. Internships and work experiences have real value, but most professional lives are full of cubicles and computers and rush hour commutes, and the skills learned at camp are real and deep and transferable. There are only so many opportunities to spend 10 weeks doing mission-centered work in a beautiful setting with a phenomenal group of peers. I hope you’ve considered spending a summer changing lives at camp, and that you’ll support those in your family and network who might be considering that honorable calling (related: if you’ve already waved goodbye to 3 month summers, volunteering for a week is the best way to take a break from your routine [and it changes lives]!).

Staff reflecting on the dock at the end of a busy day

In a few weeks, the application to join Wanakee’s 2017 summer staff will open (12/1 for returning staff, 12/15 for new staff). Every hiring manager tackles this process in their own way, and I want to offer a bit of context on how I think about this critical piece of my role. Perhaps no set of tasks is of greater importance to ensure that Wanakee is achieving its mission than securing the top talent required to maximize Wanakee’s impact. The people who give 10 weeks of their year to camp are the individuals most directly entrusted with making Wanakee magic happen for campers of all ages. Without further ado, here’s what we’re looking for -

Application (Substance): What experiences and skills does the applicant have that will make them a great counselor? Maybe they coached a sport or taught Sunday School, or they play guitar or braid the greatest French Braids, or they attended LIT. Does this person know how to be a great team member? Maybe they play sports or participate in scouts. How do we know they will be a great role model to campers and peers alike? What do their references say about them? Will they bring a servant mindset to Wanakee? Do they volunteer or take care of their siblings? What is driving this person’s desire to spend their summer at Wanakee?

Application (Style): My last organization was a job training and education program, with one of our most critical metrics being job placements. As a student advisor, my role included holding program participants to high standards of professionalism and coaching them on “best practices” when applying to any job. I am looking for these same things in applications to camp. Does the applicant take the process seriously? Is their application robust and thoughtful (with minimal typos)? Did they honor deadlines? Was their communication professional and consistent?

Advocacy: Does this individual advocate for Wanakee in their non-camp lives? Do they invite friends or family to join them as a camper or volunteer? Have they energized their church/home communities about camp, or attended a work day with their Youth Group, or brought a group of college friends to help out on a random Tuesday morning? (these actions prove an applicant is committed to and excited about Wanakee’s mission!)

X Factors: Is the staff loaded with enthusiastic extroverts? Then we might need someone more reserved to ensure that our staff are more indicative of the diverse campers we serve. Do we have enough staff 21 and older? (you have to be 21 to drive campers). Do we have enough young staff who may work at camp throughout college, ensuring continuity and knowledge transfer? (AKA bench strength). How might this person’s skills and perspectives support the creation of a team that is diverse in all ways?

2014 staff members, mid cookout

One more technical note - whenever possible, it is Wanakee’s goal to hire only individuals who are 18 and older. Though I have no doubt that there are many high schoolers who would add a lot to staff, there are a range of legal complexities that come along with hiring minors. This goal also helps to ensure that the staff is as mature as possible. 16 and 17 year olds are welcome to apply since we may not be able to achieve this goal every summer, but please go into the process with eyes wide open.

In 2016, 12 individuals applied to camp but weren’t offered employment at Wanakee. This abundance of applications is healthy for Wanakee institutionally, but challenging individually. It is likely that some people with a deep love of this place won’t be the right fit in 2017. I am humbled by those who have continued to dedicate time and talents to camp in spite of not being selected to join Wanakee’s staff, whether in 1985 or 2016. Those are individuals who recognize that hiring is complicated and situational, that one of the greatest gifts that can be given is the gift of a life-changing week at camp for a child, and that support for our 400+ summer campers takes a variety of forms.

Thank you in advance for understanding how complex it is to assemble a summer staff. Know that Wanakee is home to all. Know that if 2017 isn’t your year, 2018 could be. Know that campers will always need your support, engagement, and prayers. Know that the difficult decisions ahead won’t change any of that.

Grace and Peace,

James Tresner, Executive Director

Volunteers needed

Volunteers are an essential piece of Wanakee’s identity, history, and operations. What makes them mission-critical?

1. They bring fresh ideas and energy in support of the camper experience and to the benefit of institutional growth and improvement

2. They bring professional skillsets critical to our missional and business goals (we need pastors, architects, designers, accountants, chefs, nurses, painters, cleaners, leaf-rakers, educators, marketers, and more)

3. They make Wanakee more accessible to all families (we are a non-profit camp, and our weekly rates are less than half of the industry average – a week at Wanakee starts at $330, the industry average is $690)

This ministry would not be possible without volunteers.

Volunteering at Wanakee is also fun and meaningful! I can speak from experience; between 2012 and 2015, I served as a volunteer committee member, spent 7 weeks at camp as a counselor and event director, attended work days, and helped in the kitchen during the Homecoming BBQ. Many of those experiences remain among my all-time-favorite Wanakee memories, right alongside many of my best moments as a camper. Helping at camp isn’t always easy, but it is worth it. Here are some reasons why:

1. Volunteers change lives. Come to camp for an hour or a summer; you’ll see what I mean.

2. Camp people are fun people. You will not be bored, you will be included.

3. It feels good to help others.

4. Volunteering helps YOU. Build your personal network, professional network, new skillsets, and/or resume. Event directing and committee membership will always be part of my professional narrative – make them part of yours.

Who does camp need? You! Here are some ways to help:

Short term (7 days or less)

Brendan Loveland, volunteer counselor 2008, 2012-2016, and campers prepare to go canoeing.

• Direct a week of camp! We have themes for all interests; nature themed programs with eight 2nd graders (4 days), adventure camps with 12 middle-schoolers (7 days), sports camps with 40 young people ages 10 to 18 (7 days), and everything in between. We are ALWAYS looking for new programming ideas.

• Be a volunteer nurse! Our dedicated pool of volunteer nurses keep campers safe, get a break from their routine, connect closely with the amazing summer staff, and witness their kids (or friends’ kids) making some of their best childhood memories.

• Be a volunteer counselor! Counseling is tremendously demanding and tremendously rewarding. Support is needed for full and half week events across all ages and activities. This is the best way to take a deep dive into what Wanakee is best at – summer camp!

• Bring a mission team! With adequate prior planning, you and your team can tackle projects essential to Wanakee’s sustainability. Past groups renovated the outdoor chapel, installed new doors on the farmhouse, built changing rooms at the waterfront, and more.

Ongoing

• Lend your energy and expertise in a leadership role on one of our five Committees and/or Board of Directors. Typically, Board members are invited from those serving on our committees after an individual maintains a consistent commitment, the board identifies a needed skill set, and a number of candidates are considered.

• Become a “Wanakee Booster” in your church/community. Is there anyone in your congregation advocating for the life-changing experiences provided by a week of Christian camping? Could that person be you? Time spent at Wanakee is often bedrock to an individuals faith walk and church engagement. Camping is a highly effective way to support and/or build an engaged multi-generational church.

• Make an ongoing commitment to an area of need. We can use regular maintenance (mowing, brush removal, plowing, light repairs etc), cleaning, administrative support, and more!

Short term (one day or less)

New stairs for the Dining Hall loading dock, built and installed on Wanakee Work Day, Oct. 8, 2016.

• Come to a work day in the spring or fall and help open and close camp. Lunch is provided and all abilities are welcome. Come as an individual, family, church group, or workplace. Spring days are usually the 1st Saturdays in May and June, fall work days are typically in October.

• Schedule a volunteer day. In 2016, we welcomed high schoolers from Bow High School and the New Hampton School, among others.

• Help with the Wanakee Wilderness 5K/BBQ. This event takes an army: we need help directing runners, staffing water stations, taking photos, grilling chicken, and more. (We also need year-round support publicizing and preparing for the big day!)

• Office/clerical work – answer the phone, help with database management, organize/shred files, compile mailings etc.

• Do outreach on behalf of Wanakee at churches and elsewhere – we can provide materials and/or ideas! All you’d need to do is make the time.

At home

• Create something “campy” that can be auctioned off at our Homecoming Silent Auction (paintings, pottery, quilts, homemade syrup/jam etc)

• Scan old photos of Wanakee and share with camp for newsletters/social media

• Encourage a friend or family member to attend a week of summer programming

• Share posts from Wanakee’s Social Media to help spread the word about camp!

Do any of these pique your interest? Do you want to learn more? Reach out and contact us to start the conversation and get your questions answered, or give us a call at 603-279-7950. The Program Committee is starting to map out the 2017 summer schedule this week.

Wanakee’s sustainability depends on your engagement – will you answer the call?

Grace and Peace,

James Tresner, Executive Director

A wish list for Wanakee

In my last note, I hoped to convey the “urgency of now.” For Wanakee, the next 5 years are full of big challenges and big opportunities. I am confident that today’s volunteer base is poised to rise to this challenge by initiating and shepherding a period of growth in the number of campers we serve each summer, as well as improvements to our physical infrastructure. The proof is already there: camper numbers ticked up 7% this year, and we’ve managed to complete an incredible number of urgent facility upgrades since April, including renovations to the Cook’s Cabin and Rec Hall Bathroom (upstairs), removal of 7.9 tons of trash from the property, repairs to neglected septic and plumbing issues, installation of outlets in all Rec Hall bedrooms, purchasing brand new ovens for our dining hall, and more. By and large, these are examples of reactive, essential improvements. Our goal is to become increasingly proactive and systemic in the years ahead.

The list below is this director’s rough outline of what our next 9 large investments might be. Consider this a “what would James do with 2 million dollars” list, in no particular order. It goes without saying; any of these improvements/purchases/ investments would require support from the Board of Directors and the appropriate Committee(s).

(Note: all cost estimates are rough [at best] – some of these have been priced in 2016, some 20 years ago, some have never been seriously investigated.)

1. We have imminent plans to substantially upgrade the Farmhouse (prior to summer 2017). We are planning to install new siding, windows, and trim, as well as make necessary repairs due to water damage. The rough cost of this project projects at $100,000 to $150,000. We are almost ready to “break ground” because of our 2016 fundraising efforts, the 2015 and 2016 Wanakee Wilderness 5Ks, and the Together for Tomorrow Campaign. To those who have given to Wanakee this year – thank you for supporting this big step.

2. Rewiring the farmhouse, including increasing from 100 amp to 200 amp service. [Estimated cost is $25,000.]

3. Additional upgrades to the farmhouse for year round use (heat, water, accessibility). [Hard to estimate a price because the project scope is so unclear.]

4. Rewiring the Dining Hall. [Estimated cost is $20,000-$30,000.]

5. A new tractor, including front loader. Our current tractor is about to celebrate its 30th birthday and is too large to do light work (mowing, etc.) and too small to do heavy lifting (moving docks, etc). It also lacks a hydrostatic transmission. [Estimated cost is $30,000-$35,000 (new).]

6. A (nearly) year-round Facilities Manager. [Estimated cost is $15,000-$35,000 annually.]

7. A year round Office Manager/Retreat Coordinator. [Estimated cost is $10,000-$20,000 annually.]

8. A new high ropes course. [Estimated cost to build is $15,000-$25,000, with $2,000-$3,000 needed for annual upkeep and purchase of current equipment.]

9. And finally: a new Dining Hall+, estimated to cost $1,000,000. This is perhaps the most important item. Our current dining hall only fits 86 occupants due to a recent change in fire code interpretation. Ideally, a new dining hall would be winterized, include dual-occupancy sleeping quarters for 40 [used by You 'n Me in the summer and retreat groups in the winter, supplanting the Rec Hall], and house a new Health Office.

Wanakee remains strong where it matters – it is a uniquely loving community made up of remarkable individuals, where every summer, children, youth, and adults have life-changing experiences living in Christian community. In order to continue sustaining that community and supporting the remarkable outcomes that I am fortunate to witness every summer, we must commit to making essential improvements to our physical plant, and to finding creative ways to fund those improvements. In so doing, we can ensure that Wanakee exists at 75 Upper New Hampton Road for generations to come.

Let’s be ambitious. Let’s be hopeful. Let’s bring urgency to securing the future of this Beautiful, Spiritual Place in the Hills.

Grace and Peace,

James Tresner, Executive Director

The road ahead

Canoeing on the lake at Wanakee

Hopefully by now you’ve seen the overwhelmingly positive and hopeful updates I’ve shared during my first 6+ months as Executive Director. If not, take a look at the notes posted on Facebook/our website, or at this conversation with the NEUMC. When I take a step back, I can’t help but be thrilled about our incremental uptick in camper numbers, the quality of the 2016 staff, the engagement of this summer’s volunteers, the developing strength of our Board of Directors and committees, and the generosity of this community during a year of transition. Undoubtedly, there is a tremendous amount to be positive about.

It is equally important to contextualize Wanakee’s recent reality and the current landscape of camping, particularly within the framework of the Methodist Church. Transparency means clarity about the good and clarity about the challenging.

The Wanakee waterfront at sunset

Whenever people have asked me about the state of Wanakee, here are the stats I rattle off:

• In 2006, Wanakee had 4 year round staff

• In 2015, Wanakee had 1 year round staff

• In 2006, Wanakee brought in $30,000+ via retreats

• In 2015, Wanakee brought in less than $9,000 via retreats

• In 2006, Wanakee ran a $13,000 surplus

• In 2015, Wanakee ran a $19,000+ deficit (following a $3,000 2014 deficit)

And, most importantly:

• In 2006, Wanakee served 720+ overnight campers

• In 2015, Wanakee served 392 overnight campers and 58 day campers

That’s 270 fewer campers impacted by this Christian community.

(Sidebar: in 2016, we are tracking to reverse all those stats except for staffing. More on that via a 2016 look back/look ahead in early 2017. Stay tuned!)

If we zoom out a little bit further, there are other reasons for pause. One need only look across the Connecticut River for a cautionary tale – our sister camp, Covenant Hills, was closed following the 2015 camping season. This means that Vermont youth must cross state lines to experience a camp like Wanakee (and fortunately many have – to Wanakee, Skye Farm in NY, and Horton Center in Gorham NH, to name a few), and that those who enjoyed Covenant Hills’ incredible, Spirit-filled location in the hills outside of Cabot are unable to return to the site and experience summer programming or engage friends old and new. We were fortunate to host “Music Art Dance & Drama” in 2016 on behalf of the Covenant Hills community, but imagine attending Footnotes in Massachusetts and how it would feel. Fun? Sure. Inspiring? Hopefully. Painful? Probably. We are grateful to be a partner to the Covenant Hills community, and will continue to pray for an exciting and comprehensive path forward for outdoor programming in Vermont while deepening our collaboration through any outcome.

For an even darker shadow, look to Missouri, where after 2 years of “study,” all four conference camps were closed, as finally noted in the eighth paragraph of this news release about a “new direction” for Conference Camping. (Sidenote: after reflecting on the outcome in Missouri, and as someone whose job it is to advocate for the programming offered at Wanakee, and by extension the programming offered at Aldersgate and Mechuwana, a quote from this blog post was particularly prescient; “treating extension ministries as if they should all be economically self-supporting independent of apportionments is an extreme position. Imagine, for instance if such a requirement were put upon homeless ministries. The Church might end up regularly lamenting that it has to continue “subsidizing” this ministry!” My position is this: if we don’t invest in children and youth, what’s the plan?).

Now that the “current state” has been articulated, let’s talk about our strengths. In 2016, Wanakee served more than 400 campers and welcomed over 60 volunteers. We have programming each of the next three September weekends, and will be joined by four more groups in October.

On an individual level, there are an incredible number of people moving the needle. For example:

1. Abby Lavoie, former staffer, current volunteer and committee member, who spent a May evening calling 2015 families about summer 2016, donated $75 to our dollar-for-dollar campaign, and when her employment gave her flexibility during the summer, became Wanakee’s “fixer,” directing Wanakee Adventure, counseling Senior High, helping in the kitchen for 3 days, and assisting one of our most demanding programs, Night Camp. All as a volunteer.

2. Sue Rudolf, former staffer and longtime volunteer, who continues to invest in this place by tackling the thankless and essential task of hanging, removing, cleaning, and folding EVERY CURTAIN AT WANAKEE, every year, in addition to leading a staff training session and cheerleading the 2016 songbook campaign.

3. Nate Tapp, former staffer and volunteer, current Colorado resident, who, along with his wife Lindsey, is one of 2 monthly donors to Wanakee, having set-up a monthly contribution of $50 because he believes in what we do and the impact this place has, even if he can’t physically be here to be a part of it every summer.

4. Sean Sheehan, former camper and staffer, current committee member, who heard that our Cook’s Cabin needed to be painted after being gutted and renovated this spring, then used his professional expertise in the paint/surface industry and spent 2 full weekends at camp, working well into the night to ensure that the cabin was painted to a professional grade. Sean continues to ensure that Wanakee has Grade-A products for any and all surface coating, and along with his wife and current Board Chair Victoria Sheehan, donated $500 to Wanakee’s dollar-for-dollar campaign.

5. Mara Bovee, former camper and volunteer, 2016 staffer, who made spending another summer on the Wanakee staff a priority, bringing 5 years of experience and limitless dedication, then donated to Wanakee’s Dollar-for-Dollar campaign (while employed at camp!), and later sponsored/dedicated 2 songbooks (still while employed at camp!). She also recruited a brand-new-to-Wanakee volunteer counselor, and consistently encourages friends and family to come to camp.

These are just 5 examples out of hundreds of dedicated individuals who have given of their time, talents, and treasure in 2016. Thank you!

My request is that you ask yourself the following. From childhood to now, has Wanakee…

• ... shaped or influenced your religious beliefs, spiritual practices, and/or morality?

• ... deepened or undergirded your faith?

• ... supported the development of a friendship or relationship (or 2 or 10) that has lasted a lifetime?

• ... made you feel uniquely loved, accepted, or empowered to be the truest version of yourself?

• ... done any of the above for a friend or family member?

Then ask yourself:

• Do I want the Wanakee community to continue to gather at 75 Upper New Hampton Road, as it has for 55 years?

• Do I want my children, godchildren, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and neighbors to experience Wanakee in 2017? In 2030?

The important things about Wanakee remain strong, and have been strong for decades. Wanakee remains a place full of natural beauty, powerful friendships, radical acceptance, and life-changing spiritual moments. But, future success depends on present engagement. Those who love this place should understand the current landscape and know that Wanakee needs support in the here and now. From volunteer counselors, to skilled organizers, to expert painters, to bookkeepers and electricians and nurses and artists and plumbers and bakers and donors – your energy and time can have an impact, and is needed more than ever.

In the weeks ahead, I’ll share more specifics about ways to volunteer, as well as explore Wanakee’s “Big Ticket” wish list. Keep an eye out. In the meantime, visit our support page or our volunteer page, the latter of which will be updated soon as we build our 2017 summer program and begin recruiting volunteer directors and counselors.

Thank you to everyone who has made my first half-year a period full of excitement, growth, and hope for the place I love more than anywhere else. There is so much more work to be done – join me?

Grace and Peace,

James Tresner, Executive Director

Q&A with Wanakee executive director James Tresner

James Tresner, right, Wanakee's executive director, talks with folks at the Wanakee Wilderness 5K on Aug. 13, 2016.

Wanakee’s executive director James Tresner was hired to lead the camp in Meredith, NH, in February 2016. We spoke to him after the Wanakee 5K on Aug. 13, about his first six months on the job.

Overall, how are things going?

Things are going really well, especially given that I’m 6 months in and bearing in mind the significant gap between my start date and the departure date of my predecessor. Our overnight camper numbers ticked up roughly 7 percent in 2016, and our fundraising has been really strong – this speaks to the powerful love of this place by so many. More people of all ages are getting to experience Wanakee, and that’s something that I think the Wanakee community should be really excited about, and also proud of. Whatever success we have is due to their engagement and generosity.

Whenever we’ve had a need, people have come through – from the successful $10,000 dollar-for-dollar match campaign in June, to covering the entire cost ($5,950) of a brand new double convection oven plus installation – plus $4, to the constant flow of donations from our Amazon wish list.

Tresner wrote about the oven in a few posts on Facebook. Here is an excerpt from his Aug. 2 post:

“ … Why am I sharing all this? As an example of Wanakee’s management philosophy in 2016. In my last note, I mentioned one of the mantras among staff in 2016: “Wanakee is a place where we do things the right way.” There were other options available. Those options were less systemic. Less comprehensive. Less permanent. With the support of an engaged Facilities Committee and Board of Directors, these beautiful new machines are examples of a commitment to professional standards, a growth mindset, and confidence in Wanakee’s future.”

Read the full post “On ovens and choices.”

What are you most proud of at this point?

One of things that I’m most proud of is the 2016 summer staff. Fourteen out of twenty-one had worked at Wanakee previously, and working in the same place under different leadership is never easy. Their accomplishments and ability to succeed during a summer full of “firsts” speaks volumes about their passion for this place. Wanakee is so much bigger than any of us, and their effort and impact is proof that they understand that. Their strength of character and desire to be in service to youth and keep campers at the center of everything is extraordinary.

I’m still at the point where there are campers and staff who were campers when I was on summer staff from 2006-2009. I’ve loved getting to work closely with the next generation of Wanakee and Methodist leaders and to see young adults who have grown because they’ve been involved at Wanakee and witness the upstanding people they’ve become … it’s remarkable, and proof that Wanakee does an excellent job creating leaders.

What is your favorite part of the job?

It is really personally meaningful to be at a place that means so much and have the chance to work with families, campers, staff, the Board, and Wanakee Enthusiasts of all stripes to shape this place’s future. I love digging into the complex problems, having the expected disagreements, and working collaboratively towards a bright future – in the challenge is the limitless opportunity.

This job is also full of very surprising nostalgic moments. From the obvious – sitting on inspiration point and watching a sunset, jumping in the lake, singing songs in the dining hall – to the less obvious - such as how a building smells or the jitters I shared with campers on the first day of the season. It’s been very meaningful, and I don’t think I fully appreciated how that would feel when I came on board.

Another highlight has been the conversations on Friday nights or Saturday mornings when campers are checking out, or when a camper comes back for a second or third week. Sometimes a camper will say something to me or another staffer, or the parent will take me aside and share what an impact Wanakee is having on their son or daughter. I’m so fortunate to have had that experience myself, and it’s an incredible honor to steward that experience for present and future campers.

I know you asked for one favorite and I’ve already shared three, but here’s one more: Wanakee’s volunteers. The individuals who return here year after year – we couldn’t do it without them, and I’m so grateful. The energy, enthusiasm, and new ideas they bring each summer are invaluable.

Anything surprised you about the job?

While I’m not surprised by the support by the Wanakee community, I’m still in awe of it. And the fact that so many people have lent so much support so quickly – it’s been incredible.

A narrower, less fun surprise is the scope of the needed facility maintenance to our existing infrastructure. We’re digging into the farmhouse this fall and spring using funds from the 2015 and 2016 Wanakee Wilderness 5Ks because the needs are acute and it’s the signature building of camp. We need to ensure that it is here for future generations. I have a new appreciation for the complexity of managing a site of wonderful, character-filled, historic buildings.

Are there any new projects/initiatives you are putting in place that you’d like to highlight?

In addition to all the things that have to happen every off season to keep things moving forward – supporting our retreats, program design, volunteer recruitment, hiring staff, paying the bills, an increased emphasis on talking to and listening to the Wanakee community etc. – I have four “big rocks” on my list for this “off-season”;

• Renovating the farmhouse

• Ensuring that the registration process is as smooth and user friendly as possible for families

• Using the grant we received from the United Methodist Foundation of New England to purchase and implement a new online donor tool

• Thinking about Wanakee’s web presence, our events, and all of our PR/marketing and getting the branding tied together more tightly

In addition to what we do day to day and year to year, the goal is for these four things to be changing over the next 45 weeks – but who’s counting.

~ Story and photos by Beth DiCocco, New England Conference Director of Communications

To the 2016 summer staff

Members of the 2016 Summer Staff on Pine Mountain

On Saturday at noon, the 2016 summer staff left Wanakee to return to their homes, their jobs, their schools, their apartments, their “real” lives. They started their journeys back to Rochester, Merrimack, Vermont, and Maine. To England. To Northern Ireland. If you’ve ever been on staff at Wanakee, or another summer camp, or on any short-term team of diverse individuals working 24/7 towards a shared goal, you can appreciate the intensity of the experience, the depth of relationship, the feeling of accomplishment, and for many, the sense of loss when it ends. On August 20th at 12 PM, fifteen staffers drove down Upper New Hampton Road for the last time, sometimes chased by Spencer or Ian, running in hopes of holding onto this family a few moments longer.

This is my first time staying on Upper New Hampton Road when the staff leaves. It’s jarring. I spent the first few hours wandering around camp attempting to tie up loose ends – closing windows, locking doors, taking out trash – and starting the inexorable momentum towards a facility that sleeps through the winter. Mostly, I found myself listlessly staring across the field, emotionally drained, expecting Leslie to come around the corner giggling about a wolf-themed greeting card “for any occasion,” or for Cam to wander past, hair (still) perfectly styled after a “cheeky little [4 mile] run,” or for Mary, Devon, and Emily to wander up from the waterfront after a Saturday afternoon spent on the docks or “paddleboarding” on one of our windsurfers. Instead, I was greeted with wave after wave of silence, punctuated only by a light breeze and the occasional woodpecker. When I was on summer staff, a friend remarked that the field was one of her favorite places at camp because “even when it’s perfectly still, you can hear the echoes of campers yelling and laughing and running. It has a sort of permanent noise.” This weekend, I felt the silence a whole lot more than I remembered the perpetual motion of the past ten weeks.

The 2016 Wanakee Staff

The 2016 summer staff did incredible things, and their departure marks the end of the official work we did together and the physical community they created. I’m sad to see them go. Much greater than any melancholy I may be feeling, however, is deep gratitude for all their tireless work. Specifically:

• Andrew: for your level-headedness and hard work in an often thankless job, thank you.

• Belle: for your commitment to camper safety and ability to power through challenging weeks, thank you.

• Cameron: for your tireless energy and consistent positivity, thank you.

• Courtney: for your trailblazing work on social media and the discerning eye you brought to all things 5K, thank you.

• Devon: for your unique humor, analytical eye, and love of Agamemnon, thank you.

• Elinor: for your warm welcome to the kitchen and ability to laugh in any situation, thank you.

• Emily: for your exceptional skill as a lifeguard and willingness to step into any task with great proficiency, thank you.

• Hannah: for your creativity with programs of all sizes and “Hannahlytical” approach to problems, thank you.

• Ian: for your boundless energy and must-see renditions of “Long John” and “Humpty Dump,” thank you.

• Jenna: for your love of fun with campers and the unique spirit and silliness you bring to camp each day, thank you.

• Katie: for your warmth of spirit and desire to frost the perfect Welcome to Wanakee cake, thank you.

• Leslie: for your phenomenal patience, the unconditional love you showed to campers who needed it, and understated sense of humor, thank you.

• Mara: for truly being a “swiss army knife” and bringing a deep care for campers to your work each day, thank you.

• Mary: for tackling a new position with energy, skill, and humility while elevating our program delivery, thank you.

• Michael: for bringing new ideas and depth of experience to the dining hall (those squeeze bottles!), for bringing Denise, Lia, Toni, and Sal to camp with you, and for believing in Wanakee after only a couple months in this community, thank you.

• Olivia: for your organization, accountability to details, and willingness to live the mantra “Wanakee is a place where we work after dinner” (even if it means creating vouchers at 11 PM), thank you.

• Phil: for being there for Wanakee for 49 years, and for me this year, thank you. You are an inspiration.

• Robby: for the laughs you shared with campers and your general (and remarkably consistent) good nature, thank you.

• Ross: for pushing staff to be “game changers,” the milkshake song, and your patience in trying moments, thank you.

• Spencer: for your deep love of Wanakee and willingness to play games in the field after a long day of behind-the-scenes work, thank you.

• Vicky: for your adaptability, quirky sense of humor, and commitment to being a team player, thank you.

This list only scratches the surface of the things this team did well – those who were here this summer can surely add your own notes of gratitude (and I encourage you to do so in the comments!).

One of the things Wanakee does really well is support the development of exceptional young adults. A friend recently remarked “Wanakee is where I learned all of my best skills,” and it rings so true. As a summer staffer, I learned hard skills; how to drive a tractor, back-up a canoe trailer (notable exception: May work day 2016), and clean a toilet, as well as soft skills; how to support a homesick child in the middle of the night, work hard, and be a good team member. When 2015 staffer Kris Dechene came back to camp to volunteer for a couple days at the end of the summer, she remarked to the 2016 staff “you guys grew up.” She’s right.

So, the departure of the 2016 staff is mostly reason for hope and joy. They did immeasurable good for hundreds of campers and volunteers. Their efforts will live on in memory and thought and story and feeling. My own Wanakee counselors (Paul, Lena, Matt, John, Victoria, Rachel, James, Tracy, Kim, Matt, Jen) and countless support staff (Tim, Mike, Shareena, Ken, Dave and others) surely do.

Last week, the Wanakee staff was able to visit Horton Center (Official FB Site) and sleep out on their glorious ledge overlooking Mt. Adams, Mt. Madison, and Mt. Washington. It was the perfect end to a summer full of great achievements, big challenges, and difficult defeats. In 2009, a group from Wanakee spent a night on Pine Mountain and learned a song which includes the line “go back to the mountains, turn the world around.” Or so I thought. While walking through the dining hall at HC, I noticed a shirt that said “Go out from the mountain, turn the world around,” which gave me pause – had we been singing the song wrong for 7 years?

I asked the HC Program Director and she assured me that we had been singing the song correctly. They had altered the lyric for the shirt to remind members of their community that the lessons learned at camp are meant to be shared. Holy Ground travels with you. In the loving community created each summer at Wanakee is an example of what we should all be striving for. It is meant to be brought out from these 227 acres and shared with our schools, churches, teams, and families. I have no doubt that the 21 individuals who joined me at camp this summer will do just that, and that the world will be a better place because of their love, energy, warmth, and faith. To each of you again: thank you.

Grace and Peace,

James Tresner, Executive Director

Why a new oven is a leading indicator of a bright future

The old oven and the new oven!

This will be the last time I write a post with “oven” in the title – I had to do it, and I’ll tell you why: Wanakee has received a donation to cover the remaining balance of our new double convection oven. We are profoundly grateful to the Parker family of Main Street United Methodist Church in Nashua for their $5,000 gift. Combined with the other $1,340 in gifts received for this urgent and unanticipated 2016 expense, we've now covered the full price of the oven and all but $141.41 of the installation costs.

To summarize this now-concluded story in condensed form:

1. Our ~40 year-old oven broke precisely 3.5 weeks into a 7 week summer...

2. We had already made a number of necessary but resource-intensive, capital improvements in early 2016 (new furnace for the Log Cabin, removal of 12 trees, cook’s cabin renovations, and more)...

3. Weeks 5, 6, and 7 were slated to be our 3 biggest 2016 weeks, all with 70+ campers (overnight camper numbers are up roughly 7% from 2015!).

4. Oven = v. important

5. Inspired by a leadership gift of $1,000, the Wanakee Facilities Committee and Board of Directors signed off on a forward-thinking, growth-oriented purchase of a new double oven...

6. Seven staff, by sheer force of will, moved two 500+ lb ovens from a broken box truck on the service road to their new home in the dining hall (that’s a separate tale)...

7. Five more donors stepped up to defray the cost ($340)...

8. The Parker Family reached out about their desire to cover the remaining cost, with any “extra” funds being available for general operating expenses (these were put towards installation).

This saga is such a powerful example of the strength of the Wanakee community. When we opted to make a large investment with an eye toward the future, it was, in a small way, a leap of faith. In my previous note, I wrote “...these beautiful new machines are examples of a commitment to professional standards, a growth mindset, and confidence in Wanakee’s future. This confidence is because of you, the Wanakee community...”

Here’s the obvious lesson: that confidence was well-founded.

I feel like a broken record as I near the 6-month mark of my time as Executive Director, and I’m so fortunate to be stuck repeating this song. Your generosity is humbling and inspiring. The actions of this community since I started on February 15th are resoundingly of hope. Day after day, month after month, I see reasons to believe that Wanakee’s best days are ahead. Whether in my email box, on Facebook, during a board meeting, beneath a shooting star, or on the glowing face of a camper whose life has been changed by their time at camp, it’s obvious. Wanakee means so much to so many.

Every person who has contributed to the exciting things happening on Upper New Hampton Road – whether through your time, your gifts, or your prayers – is a blessing to this place. Thank you. Your support and trust is what pushes us to be better than we were the day before.

See you Saturday at the 5K and Homecoming BBQ.

Grace and Peace,

James Tresner, Executive Director

On ovens and choices

Old ovens (left) and new ovens (right): Blodge (top) and Jet (bottom)

Less than two weeks ago, we sent out an SOS – the oven in our dining hall was gasping. This was not just any appliance; it was a machine purchased used 30+ years ago, probably a decade old when it took up residence at Wanakee. Over the years, the bottom oven donated parts to repair the upper “Frankenoven,” and with periodic servicing, we squeezed more use than we could have hoped. In the words of Rev. Phil Polhemus, “If we do anything with [the old oven], it should be a prayer of thanksgiving for its service.”

This significant obstacle, smack-dab-in-the-middle of our summer season, was also an opportunity, albeit a complex one. I’ll cut to the chase: we bought a new oven. Not just a new oven, but two new ovens, doubling the capacity we’ve navigated for decades. Meet Blodge (top) and Jet (bottom), on the right!

But why did we buy TWO NEW ovens?

• Any repair to the old oven would have cost at least 10%-30% of what a new oven cost us – AKA good money after bad (we consulted our longtime repair technician, who corroborated that it is near-impossible to find parts for a 40-year-old machine, that we have been fighting a losing battle, and that there was no easy fix for the current problem)

• A double oven halves wear and tear on both ovens

• A double oven makes life simpler for our kitchen staff; which increases our food quality; which ensures campers, volunteers, and staff are healthy and happy at camp

• A double oven ensures that we can cook for more campers and guests

• A double oven provides redundancy if something goes wrong (Norm Thombs at Mechuwana, our sister camp, recommended we go this route, as they did)

• A new oven comes with a warranty

• A new oven will have parts available for the foreseeable future, reducing repair costs/ complexity

How was this decision made?

• The Facilities Committee debated the path forward over an epic email chain, coming to a consensus recommendation after a thorough brainstorm

• Committee and Board members leveraged their networks to find the most competitive pricing, leading to significant cost savings

• Michael Bondi (our Head Chef) and other individuals who are in the culinary world and invested in Wanakee offered insights and guided our philosophy

• The Board of Directors signed off

• The linchpin: Tracy Claus, longtime volunteer, current Facilities Committee member, kitchen staffer ~35 years ago (when we were baking in the same oven as 2016), felt so strongly about the logic of a new double oven, that he offered a personal contribution of $1,000 to support purchasing two machines. Thank you Tracy!

• [We’ve already had another $100 pledged towards this purchase, and others are considering supporting the remaining $4,850 of this unexpected capital expense (total = $5,950) – get in touch or donate online if you’d like to support!]

Why am I sharing all this?

As an example of Wanakee’s management philosophy in 2016. In my last note, I mentioned one of the mantras among staff in 2016; “Wanakee is a place where we do things the right way.” There were other options available. Those options were less systemic. Less comprehensive. Less permanent.

With the support of an engaged Facilities Committee and Board of Directors, these beautiful new machines are examples of a commitment to professional standards, a growth mindset, and confidence in Wanakee’s future. This confidence is because of you, the Wanakee community, and based on the evidence: overnight camper numbers are up in 2016, reversing a multi-year downward trend (more on that soon). More young people are experiencing Wanakee, a Christian community which supports relationships unlike any other, in a place unlike any other. The new ovens are icing on the proverbial cake, which we are now better prepared to bake.

Our kitchen is ready for 10, 20, or 100 more campers each week – let’s get them here in 2017!

Grace and Peace,

James Tresner, Executive Director

Give the gift of song

Old and new Wanakee songbooks

After 20+ years of dedicated service, the famous green songbooks are being retired and sent into the field (aka the hill). Our new BLUE songbooks arrived this week, and we are inviting Wanakee Enthusiasts to sponsor a book (or more).

So far, books have been dedicated in honor of “Pooh Bear Ives” and in memory of “Muff the Tragic Wagon,” among others. Would you like to ‪#‎givethegiftofsong‬ in 2016?

$15 supports one book (including shipping, dedicating, and covering). You can donate online or by mailing a check to Wanakee with “Songbooks” in the subject line. Dedications can be done online or by emailing mail@wanakee.org. So far, we've received support for 17 out of 85 books. Thank you!

We are so excited to put these books into circulation in 2016.

“Wanakee is a place where we do things the right way”

"... so strong and so mighty..."

Wanakee’s “Dollar-for-Dollar” fundraiser was an overwhelming success! Including the matching gift, the total raised in June was $10,545. Every generous donation helps ensure that Wanakee can realize its mission to “love, accept, challenge, and provide opportunities for growth to all God's people within our ‘Beautiful Spiritual Place in the Hills’” for years to come. Combined, gifts of $50 or less equaled more than 4 weeks of camperships.

Here is a quick snapshot of your giving:

• 38 unique gifts, ranging from $5 to $500

• Average gift size: $146

• 1 gift of $5

• 4 gifts of $500

• 19 gifts between $5 and $50, totaling $800 ($1,600 after the 1:1 match)

• 10 gifts from the Wanakee Board of Directors

• 2 gifts from outside the United States

• 12 gifts from past Wanakee staff

• 3 gifts from current Wanakee staff

• 1 matching gift of $5,000

• $10,545 total raised

In addition, Wanakee has received items valued at $397.89 from our Amazon wish list since June 1st (!!!). It is incredibly inspiring to be a part of a community that is so generous with their time, talents, and treasure.

What can you expect from us?  Vigilance in stretching your dollars as far as possible and transparency in all that we do. “Wanakee is a place where we do things the right way” is one of the mantras of the 2016 staff. Stewarding Wanakee’s resources is an enormous responsibility that we take very seriously.

Thank you for believing in the 2016 summer staff.

Thank you for believing in Allelus.

Thank you for believing in Friday night pizza.

Thank you for believing in quiet moments around the campfire.

Thank you for believing in “The Trifecta” after breakfast.

Thank you for believing in Captain’s Ball.

Thank you for believing in sunsets at Inspiration Point.

Thank you for believing in Wanakee magic.

We’ll see you at the Wanakee Wilderness 5K and Homecoming Weekend on August 13th.

Grace and Peace,

James Tresner, Executive Director

Wanakee receives $10,545 in “Dollar-for-Dollar” fundraiser

Wanakee’s “Dollar-for-Dollar” fundraiser in June 2016 was an overwhelming success! Including the matching gift, the total raised in June was $10,545. Every generous donation helps ensure that Wanakee can realize its mission to “love, accept, challenge, and provide opportunities for growth to all God's people within our ‘Beautiful Spiritual Place in the Hills’” for years to come. Combined, gifts of $50 or less equaled more than 4 weeks of camperships.

Here is a quick snapshot of your giving:

• 38 unique gifts, ranging from $5 to $500

• Average gift size: $146

• 1 gift of $5

• 4 gifts of $500

• 19 gifts between $5 and $50, totaling $800 ($1,600 after the 1:1 match)

• 10 gifts from the Wanakee Board of Directors

• 2 gifts from outside the United States

• 12 gifts from past Wanakee staff

• 3 gifts from current Wanakee staff

• 1 matching gift of $5,000

• $10,545 total raised

In addition, Wanakee has received items valued at $397.89 from our Amazon wish list since June 1st (!!!). It is incredibly inspiring to be a part of a community that is so generous with their time, talents, and treasure.

What can you expect from us? Vigilance in stretching your dollars as far as possible and transparency in all that we do. “Wanakee is a place where we do things the right way” is one of the mantras of the 2016 staff. Stewarding Wanakee’s resources is an enormous responsibility that we take very seriously.

• Thank you for believing in the 2016 summer staff.

• Thank you for believing in Allelus.

• Thank you for believing in Friday night pizza.

• Thank you for believing in quiet moments around the campfire.

• Thank you for believing in “The Trifecta” after breakfast.

• Thank you for believing in Captain’s Ball.

• Thank you for believing in sunsets at Inspiration Point.

• Thank you for believing in Wanakee magic.

We’ll see you at the Wanakee Wilderness 5K and Homecoming Weekend on August 13th.

Grace and Peace,

James Tresner
Executive Director

James Tresner named executive director at Wanakee

Dear Companions in Christ,

James B. Tresner

On behalf of the New England Conference, I am pleased to announce that James B. Tresner has been named executive director at Wanakee, our camp in Meredith, NH. James will begin his new role on Feb. 15, 2016.

James already has experience with camping and retreat ministries in New England; he has been involved at Wanakee since 1999 as a camper, staff member, and, most recently, as the volunteer director of Senior High Camp and member of the Operations Committee, where he helped Wanakee earn accreditation through the American Camp Association (ACA). He also served as a staffer at Camp Aldersgate in Rhode Island.

Most recently James, who lives in Somerville, MA, has been the development manager and brand steward at Year Up, a nonprofit that offers a one-year intensive training program for low-income young adults that provides a combination of hands-on skill development, college credits and corporate internships.

In his most recent role as a front-line fundraiser, James raised and stewarded over $500,000 in five months by cultivating and maintaining external partnerships. Prior to joining the development team, James was on Year Up's admissions and outreach team, where he designed admissions processes and developed innovative digital outreach tools.

From 2011 to 2013, James managed a school-based after school program, overseeing enrollment growth of 70 percent while building sustainable relationships with families, district staff, and other stakeholders.

I look forward to the gifts that James will bring to Wanakee and the New England Conference, especially in the areas of development, team leadership, familiarity and understanding of camping and ACA standards, and his passion and commitment to the Wanakee experience.

The Wanakee Board of Directors and I are confident that he will give excellent leadership in building congregational and community partnerships, and strengthening our camping program while administering a collaborative vision for expanding the mission and offering meaningful outdoor ministry in New England.

“As a former camper and staff member, and longtime volunteer, I have personally seen and experienced the fundamental ways that Wanakee can positively influence people from all backgrounds,” James said. “It is a uniquely joyful and caring community. There is no place that means more to me; the relationships formed at Wanakee provide a lifetime of support. I am eager to partner with families, the Wanakee Board of Directors, and the Conference to lead Wanakee towards a bright future.”

Asked where he sees Christian camping today, James responded: “(There is) an opportunity for camps to take on increased importance; to continue to be a source of support to churchgoers, and to be an inspiration to those without a faith home. It is possible to meet the needs of churches while also serving individuals from all backgrounds. Wanakee must remain a safe place for diverse people.”

James graduated magna cum laude from Middlebury College in Vermont with a BA in Environmental Studies/History and Music.

“Growing up in the Methodist Church, I am acutely aware of the significant ways in which the core theology of Methodism has shaped my values,” said the native of West Hartford, CT, who grew up attending the United Methodist Church of Hartford. “I am grateful to my parents and grandparents, whose lifelong commitments to the church and longtime commitments to Methodism are bedrock to our family.”

James takes over leadership of Wanakee from Michael Moore, who stepped down in September 2015 after 10 years as executive director.

Please join me in welcoming James to the New England Conference. I am confident I speak for the board when I say that we anticipate the 2016 camping season with excitement and look forward to the camp’s next chapter with James at the helm.

Connected in Christ,

Rev. Erica Robinson-Johnson
New England Conference Director of Connectional Ministries

Letter from the Wanakee board of directors

Wanakee sign in front of farmhouse

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

In June of this year, it was announced that Michael Moore would be stepping down as executive director of Wanakee in fall of 2015.

Though we are sad to see him go, we are incredibly grateful for all Michael has done for Wanakee over the past ten years, and for the spiritual growth he has helped nurture for our children, youth and young adults. We wish Mike and his family all the best in the future and pray that they will be happy in their new home.

This month, the Conference and the Wanakee Board will be reviewing applicants for the open Executive Director position, narrowing our list of candidates and conducting interviews.

During this transition time, the Conference has asked Rev. Philip Polhemus (ret.) to serve as our camp coordinator and work with the board to ensure a smooth transition over the next few months for camp. Phil will oversee remaining 2015 retreat programming, facilities and necessary year-end approved projects / winter maintenance, coordinate our volunteers for upcoming fall work days, and provide support for the annual closing of camp.

Phil will be checking the camp office daily regarding incoming retreat groups, answering emails, phone calls and distributing mail. Messages may be left at the camp office – 603-279-7950. In case of emergency, Phil may be reached at 603-393-7182.

We invite you to pray for all those involved in the transition process and especially for Wanakee – “A Beautiful, Spiritual Place in the Hills.”

Wanakee hosts 5K and homecoming

Runners at the 2015 Wanakee 5K

About 100 folks got to see the beauty of Wanakee at a quicker pace than most who tour the Meredith, NH, camp.

They were the runners and walkers who participated in this year’s Wanakee Homecoming and 5K Wilderness Run/Walk on Aug. 15, 2015.

So how much quicker? Overall winner Andrew Attorri finished the 3.1 mile-course in 24 minutes, 13 seconds; the first woman to cross the finish line, Ashley Polhemus, did so with a time of 26:26.

The first, second and third place winners overall and by age group are awarded trophies made by potter and former camp staffer Gary Storms.

The 5K is an off-road race along hiking trails that Mike Polhemus, who is co-director of the race with his father, the Rev. Phil Polhemus, described to racers as “grueling,” though he quickly added: “You’ll love it.”

The 5K started three years ago as the culmination of a week-long running camp. Now it’s been opened to the public and helps to raise funds for camp improvements.

The $10,000 raised by this year’s race, which has a number of corporate sponsors, will go toward re-siding the farmhouse.

This year’s event, which includes a homecoming barbecue, was a little bittersweet this year. Wanakee Director Michael Moore is leaving at the end of this camp season.

Speaking after the race Victoria Sheehan, chair of the Wanakee Site Committee, said: “Unfortunately, Michael Moore, who’s been our director here at Wanakee for 10 years is leaving; this is his last season, so we really want to take some time today and celebrate Mike and his family and the contributions they’ve made to camp."

Those attending were invited to share their good wishes and memories in a book, and a collection taken for a parting gift for Moore.

Michael Moore, center, fills water cups before the race.

“Michael Moore and his wife, Jean, came here 10 years ago to be our directors. They have touched hundreds and hundreds of lives, and made Wanakee a truly welcoming place and we’re very fortunate to have had them here,” Sheehan said. “The Moore family has meant so much to all of us, so we really want to wish them well.”

Jean Moore, who served as co-director with her husband, died in 2010. Moore said he has no “set plan” after stepping down, but is looking forward to spending time with his three children.

“There have been a lot of great memories over those 10 years and a lot of blessings,” he said, adding that 75 percent of the current staff are past campers. “It’s a neat way of seeing them grow – 10 years ago they would have been in elementary school, and now they’re the leaders, so that’s pretty exciting.”

“Wanakee is an amazing place for watching children grow spiritually and in their faith, especially through the elements of Christian community, and the love and compassion that’s shown with the staff and the other campers,” he said. “To be a part of that is such a blessing.”

~ Story and photos by Beth DiCocco, New England Conference Director of Communcations

Wanakee earns accreditation by the American Camp Association

Wanakee is accredited by the American Camp Association.

Wanakee is now accredited by the American Camp Association, the only nationwide organization that accredits all types of organized camps.

"It is truly wonderful to have our programs, facility and staff recognized for the commitment to camper safety and quality camping programs by the ACA New England Board of Directors," said Michael Moore, Wanakee's Director, in announcing the good news on November 14, 2014.

This accreditation was achieved through rigorous evaluation of the camp property, staff, operations, policies and procedures. Director Michael Moore, the staff, and volunteers gave much time and dedication to meet these requirements and to achieve this status.