Camp Ondessonk NewsletterFall 2021
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From The Director's Desk
By Dan King
Summer camp session 10 ended on August 7. It was the last day of an exhilarating and exhausting summer camp season. Each one of the week’s 264 campers was gone by 11:00 a.m. Our counselors completed a thorough deep cleaning of camp’s buildings, grounds, and activity areas by 1:30 p.m. Our final staff meeting of the summer was finished by 2:30. Thousands of goodbye hugs followed. The Ozark Creek Valley became increasingly quiet as the day progressed. In time, we were alone with the swirling thoughts of summer camp 2021. I’ve written about the last day of camp numerous times. Please forgive the repetition, but it is, after all, the final day of the most important thing we do every year. We must dwell on such things, if only for a little while. Thinking about “what just happened” is important. It’s how we grow.
We served 2,970 campers throughout the summer. Technically, we served 2,825 distinct children, some of whom attended two or more sessions. We managed to do so without experiencing a single, known COVID infection transmission. This achievement required significant work from our staff. Meanwhile, the campers were agreeable, flexible, and willing. Understandably, a handful of parents had to adjust to the idea that COVID testing, masking, and other mitigation efforts were necessary. Some ultimately decided that their camper(s) would sit this summer out. As I’ve repeated numerous times in the last several months, we are just grateful for the opportunity to operate. We are also grateful for our 2021 campers and their parents, including those that cancelled for any reason.
Though summer camp 2021 was an overall success, it would be misleading for me to say all was perfect. In particular, the first two or three weeks were tough for some campers and counselors. Perhaps it’s because so many people were simultaneously experiencing an abrupt social immersion after months of infrequent activity and interaction with others. In hindsight, I also wonder if our careful attention to COVID mitigation procedures distracted us somewhat. Whatever the case, we made some mistakes – especially during the earliest weeks. We stand hopeful to be granted the space to evolve, as our learning and growth process is well underway. To be fair to our counselors and leadership staff, it should also be mentioned that many campers and parents are fully satisfied with their 2021 summer camp experience. This revelation will not erase our mistakes. It will help prevent them in the future.
Planning for next summer is already underway. Summer camp will begin Sunday, June 5. We are planning for nine sessions, our pre-COVID norm. Lisa, Camp’s finance director, recently presented a 2022 operating budget proposal to our Finance Committee. This process reminded us that the public health and financial challenges of COVID are not yet behind us. It will likely take a few years for us to make up the ground we’ve lost. Thank you, Camp Friends, for all you’ve done to get us to this point. Your loving presence and support are appreciated.
After all these months, “the list” remains relevant:
May God’s hands keep and guide the Campers of Ondessonk, and may you find ways to keep Camp in your life for the rest of your life.
Sincerely,
Dan King
We served 2,970 campers throughout the summer. Technically, we served 2,825 distinct children, some of whom attended two or more sessions. We managed to do so without experiencing a single, known COVID infection transmission. This achievement required significant work from our staff. Meanwhile, the campers were agreeable, flexible, and willing. Understandably, a handful of parents had to adjust to the idea that COVID testing, masking, and other mitigation efforts were necessary. Some ultimately decided that their camper(s) would sit this summer out. As I’ve repeated numerous times in the last several months, we are just grateful for the opportunity to operate. We are also grateful for our 2021 campers and their parents, including those that cancelled for any reason.
Though summer camp 2021 was an overall success, it would be misleading for me to say all was perfect. In particular, the first two or three weeks were tough for some campers and counselors. Perhaps it’s because so many people were simultaneously experiencing an abrupt social immersion after months of infrequent activity and interaction with others. In hindsight, I also wonder if our careful attention to COVID mitigation procedures distracted us somewhat. Whatever the case, we made some mistakes – especially during the earliest weeks. We stand hopeful to be granted the space to evolve, as our learning and growth process is well underway. To be fair to our counselors and leadership staff, it should also be mentioned that many campers and parents are fully satisfied with their 2021 summer camp experience. This revelation will not erase our mistakes. It will help prevent them in the future.
Planning for next summer is already underway. Summer camp will begin Sunday, June 5. We are planning for nine sessions, our pre-COVID norm. Lisa, Camp’s finance director, recently presented a 2022 operating budget proposal to our Finance Committee. This process reminded us that the public health and financial challenges of COVID are not yet behind us. It will likely take a few years for us to make up the ground we’ve lost. Thank you, Camp Friends, for all you’ve done to get us to this point. Your loving presence and support are appreciated.
After all these months, “the list” remains relevant:
- Wash your hands frequently, practice social distancing, wear a mask when in public, and please consider being vaccinated if you haven’t already done so. Camp needs you to do everything you can do to be well. This is, of course, for your health and the health of your family, neighbors, and community. We also need you for the rest of this list.
- Pray. Please continue praying.
- Participate in the Campfire Circle monthly giving program by giving an amount of your choice each month. Giving this way provides steady revenue that strengthens Camp and its campers. Please visit our giving page to enroll. At the beginning of the pandemic, we had approximately 19 monthly donors. We now have 239. Campfire Circle members provide a steady stream of mission-supporting revenue. Whether $5 or $500 per month, their generosity makes a significant difference.
- If you are comfortable doing so and are willing to take steps to protect yourself and those around you, please participate in Camp’s programs and services. When you visit Ondessonk for camping, lodging, meals, small-group seminars and retreats, and the programming options we are offering during the 2021-22 school year, you generate operating revenue that helps Camp outlast the pandemic. Plus, you get to be at Camp Ondessonk! Click on our event calendar for information about booking unit camping, lodging, and other services and programs.
- Be kind. Lift people up. Love one another.
May God’s hands keep and guide the Campers of Ondessonk, and may you find ways to keep Camp in your life for the rest of your life.
Sincerely,
Dan King
In this issue...
1. Fall Programming
"Whether you are coming alone, or in a group, Camp Ondessonk has opportunities for all." |
By Nolan Hurst, Camping Services Director
As the heat dissipates and leaves begin to drop, Camp Ondessonk begins a magnificent transition into our Fall Program schedule. A Fall at Camp Ondessonk brings many opportunities for children, adults, schools, families alike to come experience a new season at Camp Ondessonk. For those looking for a weekend away this Fall, Camp Ondessonk rents the St. Noel Center, treehouse units, and tent camping sites. If you do not wish to bring any food or plan your own entertainment for the group, the Ondessonk Staff have you covered. When pre-ordered, Camp Ondessonk can deliver meals to your lodging and provide programming such as archery, boating, guided hikes, and more. Camp Ondessonk weekends also make for an incredible Scout trip. For school classes and youth groups looking for something to do during the week, Camp Ondessonk can provide you with a planned experience that lasts anywhere from one to five days. A lead teacher or group coordinator can work directly with Camp Ondessonk’s quality staff to plan a personalized program that matches educational and recreational goals for your students. If you are looking for a little bit more, Camp Ondessonk has lesson plans that match Illinois State Standards, and lesson plans that can help your students grow in faith. Whether you are coming alone, or in a group, Camp Ondessonk has opportunities for all. Come with a plan or for relaxation, we are the place for you. |
2. Fournie Lodge Renovation Update
"With overnight space for eight, the Lodge will provide comfortable, climate-controlled lodging for guests who would like to experience Camp Ondessonk in a rustic, yet luxurious, setting." 
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Thanks to the skilled work of a team of volunteers led by former board member, Joe Werner, and the support of donors, Fournie Lodge renovation is nearing completion. If all goes as hoped, it will be available for use by its first guests by mid-December.
The building, named in honor of Monsignor John T. Fournie, was Camp’s original administrative office. It also housed Camp’s Chaplains through the mid-1990s. It was later used as a nature lodge and staff home, among other purposes. Unfortunately, the building fell into serious disrepair by the end of the 2000s. Ten years ago, the space was reimagined as a guest lodge that will be available for rental during the school year. Booking information for Fournie Lodge will be made available as soon as possible. Guests will have the option of renting a portion of the building or the entire Lodge. With overnight space for eight, the Lodge will provide comfortable, climate-controlled lodging for guests who would like to experience Camp Ondessonk in a rustic, yet luxurious, setting. Belinda Bauer, a current board member, is heading up efforts to decorate and furnish the building. We are very grateful to Joe, Belinda, and the many, many donors and volunteers who have given time, talent, and treasure to the project. |
3. After School and Homeschool Programs
“The afterschool program at Camp Ondessonk has been a positive influence on students at New Simpson Hill and has given them an experience where they can grow academically and socially-emotionally...” |
-By Nolan Hurst, Camping Services Director
“Teaching what matters most” goes beyond teaching to just those who are willing to attend; it involves providing programs and services that match the needs of those our organization is serving and wishes to serve. In Spring of 2021, Camp Ondessonk started expanding programming for students that live locally. Starting small, Camp Ondessonk offered an afterschool program to 45 students from New Simpson Hill Elementary School. Throughout eight weeks of programming, growth was seen in many students. Students who participated thinking they were coming for a fun time of archery and hiking developed relationships they would not otherwise have had the chance to in the classroom. Our staff were not the only people who noticed the influence of this Camp Ondessonk program. New Simpson Hill Principal, Candace Armstrong, recently shared, “The afterschool program at Camp Ondessonk has been a positive influence on students at New Simpson Hill and has given them an experience where they can grow academically and socially-emotionally. Students have demonstrated confidence in themselves through new experiences that you can’t get every day, such as learning archery, climbing to the top of the rock wall, hiking to waterfalls, learning to paddle a canoe, and riding horses. We are so thankful to Camp Ondessonk to give our students this opportunity after school.” Following a successful Spring Program, Camp Ondessonk has committed more resources and brainstorming toward what best serves the local community. Starting Fall 2021, in addition to continuing the New Simpson Hill After-School Camp, Camp Ondessonk will be adding monthly programs for Homeschool Groups to gather on property. Spending the morning learning environmental education and the afternoon applying the knowledge to a recreational activity, homeschool students will have the opportunity to learn from the world around them. Together these programs begin to expand the services provided to the local community; however, it is just the first step toward providing for the true needs of our local families. Camp Ondessonk is excited to continue exploring opportunities to serve those near and far. |
4. Giving Tuesday
November 30th – A Global Day of Giving |
By Judy Blase Woodruff, Fund Development Consultant
November 30th – A Global Day of Giving Where has the summer gone? It’s hard to believe that Thanksgiving is just a few short months away! As you might know, #GivingTuesday is the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, and Camp Ondessonk is once again participating in this Global Day of Giving. Giving Tuesday is a generosity movement created in 2012 as a simple idea: a day that inspires people to do good. Since then, it has grown into a global movement that furthers hundreds of missions, and encourages people to give, collaborate, and celebrate generosity. Whether you make someone smile, help a neighbor or stranger, show up for an issue you care about, or give some of what you have to those who need your help, every act of generosity counts. Everyone has something to give. How are you giving back November 30, 2021? Share on social media with hashtag #GivingTuesday and inspire others to give together even when we’re apart. |
5. MEET OUR NEW FULL-TIME STAFF MEMBERS
By Ondessonk Staff
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Scott Martin - Assistant Ranger
Scott grew up in Minooka, Ill., about 50 miles outside of Chicago. His favorite part(s) about working at Camp is probably a tie between getting to be out in the woods all day and the great people he has met in only a few months. Scott has multiple hobbies, including hiking and camping in the Shawnee, riding motorcycles, four-wheeling, and working on and driving his classic cars. His favorite is spending time with his fiancé, Alyssa, and his dog, Smokey, and friends. Scott has a vast background in auto mechanics and is an incredible asset to our Ondessonk team. |
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Emily Reider - Event & Marketing Coordinator
Emily first attended Camp Ondessonk in 2006 as a mini camper in Lalande. She discovered Camp as her second home because her older cousin was also a camper at the time. She returned every year after that for one week, with her two younger sisters and best friends, growing her love for the outdoors and Camp in particular. In 2012, Emily participated in the CIT program and returned for six weeks as an LIT the following year. Reider then took a brief hiatus from Camp, taking summer classes for college and doing short internships. In 2018, she came back to Ondessonk to work as the Wellness Coordinator, which is where she met her fiancé, Chris. Emily then stayed on into the Fall of 2018 to work as an Outdoor Education Instructor, one of her favorite roles. The following summer, Reider worked as Horse Camp Co-UL and continued to unit lead in 2021 for Mini Camp, in addition to serving in the Health Center once again. Emily is now grateful to be serving Camp in the role of Event & Marketing Coordinator. Her favorite part about the current position is learning something new about members of our community and the history of Ondessonk. Emily stated, "Living and working at Camp Ondessonk full time is a dream I never knew I needed to fulfill until it happened. I could not be happier or more honored to love this place, our community, and to feel that I am making a difference each day. I look forward to my future here and cannot wait to share my passion for Camp with anyone who will listen." Hometown: St. Louis (Kirkwood), Mo. Family: Mom – Beth, Dad – John, Sisters – Natalie (22), Alice (20) Pets: Dog, Arlo 😊 Hobbies: reading, cooking, painting/calligraphy School: Kirkwood High School, St. Louis University – B.S. Psychology |
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Chris Bretscher - Program Manager
When asked about his Camp experience, Chris shared, "Camp is a family tradition for me. My parents both came as campers, worked summers as teenagers, and stayed on to work year-round before I was born. My experience at Camp started before I was even old enough to form memories. We came down at least once a year, oftentimes more, before I was old enough to be a camper, attending specialty weekends like Labor Days and Stable Roundups, or just as day-hikers. Once I was old enough, I attended Mini Camp, back when the entire Camp switched to just minis for the week. I remember staff members trying to tell me how valuable all the old unit shirts I had were, which I thought was odd because they were just my old pajamas. I got into Lodge after a few years of Traditional Camp and was quickly welcomed into the Springfield Area Lodge Tribe (now Council), where I eventually held the offices of "Sub-Chief" and "Chief." I was a CIT Coed 5 of 2011, LIT the following year, and worked summers as Nature Staff, H&S Director, Nature Director, Unit Leader, Health Center Coordinator, and most recently, Summer Program Coordinator. I also had the pleasure of working in the Fall of 2018 through the Spring of 2019 as an Outdoor Education Instructor. Now, I find myself in the role (or equivalent of it) that my mom held before the end of her paid Camp career. Camp Ondessonk has played a pivotal role in shaping my life and in who I am today, and it is my honor and privilege to continue my Camp career as Program Manager." |
6. A favorite mountain biking trail at Camp Ondessonk
"Once I reach Durbin’s Barn, I jump off the single track for a moment and hit the gravel heading southwest toward Morgan’s Fields." 
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By Dru Kee, Support Services Director
When I bike at Ondessonk, the route I’m going to pick is the White Trail starting at Chabanel. It’s a nice easy roll uphill to the bluff line behind Goupil, then heads toward Chabanel Falls before the switchbacks and climb that eventually lead behind Kane Lake. From that point it’s a nice flow down towards Lalemant and continues on to another switchback toward Indians Kitchen, also known as Wayne’s World. Then it morphs into some single-track Heaven with fun terrain heading south towards the Purple Trail. I jump on the Purple Trail to make my way through an awesome backcountry section that weaves back and forth bringing you deeper in and around the old Durbin’s homestead. Once I reach Durbin’s Barn, I jump off the single track for a moment and hit the gravel heading southwest towards Morgan’s Fields. An alternate option is to stay on the Purple Trail across the road past Durbin’s Barn, but I prefer the open air. Taking a quick left into the open field before the gravel goes downhill, I follow the tree line to the rear of the field and jump back on the Purple Trail single track. At this point I make sure my lid is on tight and I’m in attack position. It starts out on a roller coaster with some optional jumps; This trail was built specifically for mountain biking. Then it’s a series of quick switchbacks bombing down the hill and ends at the unit of Garnier. By this point I’m usually ready for a break at the spillway but continuing on the White Trail around the rest of Ondessonk’s property will not disappoint. To learn more about mountain biking at Camp Ondessonk click here. 17th annual Fat Tire Festival – October 15-17th https://bikesurgeon.com/southern-illinois-fat-tire-festival/ Be on the lookout for the Cannonball Winter Groundhogs Soul Crusher Circuit Challenge – Early February Keep your fingers crossed for a springtime MTB race!!! https://cannonball.bike/cannonball-four-season-2021-race-series/ |
7. Where Are They Now? Mike Wenzel
“Some of Mike’s most fond memories of his summers spent as a staff member include shooting the arrows for Thursday night Lodge calls, playing the bugle calls each morning and night, and assessing locations and activities for Frontier programs" |
By Emily Reider, Event & Marketing Coordinator
A long-time member of the Ondessonk community, Mike Wenzel affirms that both his experiences and deep affection for Camp have shaped him into who he is today. Mike’s journey at Camp Ondessonk began in 1965 as a CIT in the two-week program during boys’ season. The following summer, Mike returned as a boys’ season staff member for six weeks. In 1967, he worked aquatics during boys’ season and maintenance during girls’ season. For the next two years, Mike served as the assistant administrator to Pat Marlin and Sister Duchesne, in their respective halves of the summer. Mike spent many weeks in the unit of Lalande as it was closest to the main area at the time. Once he stepped into his more administrative role, he had his own suite in the back of the admin building, now called the Staff Lounge. During this time, Mike was also the President of Johnson County transit which coordinated the buses between Camp and Belleville, and eventually Evansville. Mike shared that Camp, as it is now, is not wholly different from what he remembers, but has evolved into what the campers of today need. Some of Mike’s fondest memories of his summers spent as a staff member include shooting the arrows for Thursday night Lodge Ceremony, playing the bugle calls each morning and night, and assessing locations and activities for Frontier programs. After one summer as an assistant admin, Mike was sent by the Diocese of Belleville to Colorado to scout programs in Estes Park, which he looks back on as quite an adventure. At the time, other Frontier program participants traveled to Lake Huron in Canada, and Bay St. Louis near New Orleans, Louisiana, which sound like incredible memories made by many. In 1970, Mike graduated from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville with a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting. He then began his accounting career with a major national firm and later founded a sole proprietorship in 1982 in his hometown of Belleville, Ill, known today as Wenzel and Associates Ltd. Mike greatly enjoys being involved in his community through serving on various boards and committees for the Okaw Valley Council of Boy Scouts of America, and the SIUE Foundation, in addition to Camp Ondessonk. In his free time, Mike has transitioned from golfing to fishing and recently participated in a trip out West to relax and focus on this hobby. When asked about his favorite memory of Camp, Mike told the story of how he met his beautiful wife, Kathy. They were both travelling to a Lodge reunion weekend in 1966, at which time Mike was serving as sub-chief. Their group stopped at the Dairy Queen in Pinckneyville, which is where he saw Kathy standing in line, and the rest is history. The two are celebrating 50 years of marriage this coming October! Mike and Kathy have also raised two wonderful children and currently have seven fantastic grandchildren. We are thankful to have Mike and his family as a loving and supportive part of our Camp Ondessonk community. Heepwah Mike! |
8. Ondessonk’s New Inner-Belt Trail
-Echon Trail - marked in white |
By Greg Santen, Guest Services Director
Ondessonk, as a camp, stands out for many reasons. One of our most unique distinctions is our 983 acres; which means we have a lot of space – space for trails. Over the past three years, Ondessonk has been adding to its already excellent network of trails. Since 2018, we’ve added six miles of new trail for a current total of over 13 miles of marked trail on our property. Most of these new trail miles would not have been possible without the vision and hard work from the good folks at the Bike Surgeon in O’Fallon, Illinois. Their efforts have given us the almost four-mile Echon Trail (marked in white) that winds around the lake not far from almost every unit in Camp. Off that great new trail is the Homestead Trail. Built in 2020, this trail acts as both a spur off the Echon Trail and as an inner-belt to the Cedar Falls Trail to Pakentuck (marked in red), the Pine Alley Trail, and the Bridge Trail (marked in green) leading to Camp’s West side. The Homestead Trail encircles Morgan’s Field and the Durbin’s Barn area (hence its name) and makes for a great new beginning to access older routes on both sides of Camp. You can access this one and a half-mile spur from either the Echon Trail Middle Access point near Garnier or at its other end across the Camp Road from Garnier. Marked in purple diamonds, the Homestead Trail is a great way to experience new areas of Camp while on your way to enjoy your old favorite spots. To learn more about day hiking at Camp Ondessonk click here. |
9. Habitat Restoration at Camp
"Be on the lookout this coming fall, winter, and early next spring for weekend trail work and habitat restoration volunteer opportunities at Camp Ondessonk as we make our 983 acres even more beautiful." |
By Greg Santen, Guest Services Director
Many parts of Camp are pristine enough to be eligible for official state natural area designation. But there are a few small pockets of Camp property that could use some restoration. In the coming years, Camp hopes to partner with two local non-profit volunteer organizations, each with a mission is to educate private landowners on how to improve the health, quality, and bio-diversity of their forests through invasive and non-native species removal, timber stand improvements, and prescribed burns. These local organizations are community-driven workforces who have the expertise and equipment to do this sort of work; they simply need volunteers to help get the work done. Some of the small tracts around Camp that could use some attention are Morgan’s Field, the woods behind St. Noel, the gully and creek leading down from the horse lake through the Main Area, the area behind Durbin’s Barn, the pine stands between lakeside and Garnier, and the tract near Kane Lake. Obviously these projects will need to be prioritized and phased in over the course of several years, but the hope is to work on small pockets of forests on Camp property that have become overgrown and restore them back to a more natural state. Be on the lookout this coming fall, winter, and early next spring for weekend trail work and habitat restoration volunteer opportunities at Camp Ondessonk as we make our 983 acres even more beautiful. Anyone in our Camp Family who may have prior experience with this sort of work will be greatly appreciated. Hopefully we can make this an annual effort at Camp. |
10. Planned Giving Society
Arney as Unit Leader of Brebeuf in 1968.
"Members of Le Coeur Society will preserve the mission of Camp Ondessonk through philanthropic gifts that will ensure that the Camp O experience will be available to generations to come." |
By Judy Blase Woodruff, Fund Development Consultant
Arney: Camper – CIT – Counselor – Donor – LeCoeur Society Member “The summers I spent at Camp Ondessonk were among the very best times of my life,” stated Kathy (Arney) Arnold. “Each summer was a little different, and each summer I became more and more the person I am today. I made life-long friends there. I honed my independence and sense of personal responsibilities there. I can’t imagine having grown up any other way!” As a member of St. Philip’s Parish in East St. Louis, her family knew about Camp Ondessonk when it was Camp St. Philip in 1957. Kathy’s mother was one of the first volunteer nurses at Ondessonk. Kathy began as a camper in 1960, and returned for the next four years. She was a Counselor in Training in 1965, and a staff member in 1966 through 1968. In 1969, her mother insisted that she get a “real job,” and she was devastated. Kathy states her fondest memory of Camp was, “Getting elected into the Lodge of Tekakwitha in 1961 at the age of 12.” She felt honored and a little overwhelmed, but people were supportive and proud of her! As the years turned into decades, Kathy began her career as a nurse and eventually became a flight nurse. She then worked at creating her own company – KMA Testing – which took all of her free time, and then some. She never forgot Camp Ondessonk. When asked to join the Development Committee of the Board of Directors last year, she readily agreed. She was pleased to be part of committee work to keep Camp alive, especially during a pandemic year when budgets had to be tightened. Since she still works full time, she has little availability to volunteer at Camp, so the committee work keeps her involved and enhances her feeling of still belonging to the Camp Family. This past year, the Development Committee formed an ad hoc committee to look into creating a planned giving society for Camp. Many of Kathy’s friends and colleagues were commenting about naming Camp in their estate plans, so it seemed that it was time to formally recognize their long and significant relationships with Camp Ondessonk through a legacy giving program. A legacy giving program helps organize efforts and cultivate additional planned gifts that will benefit Camp for many years to come. After much discussion, it was decided that the new legacy society for Camp will be called Le Coeur Society. The term “Le Coeur” (The “Heart”) was chosen to associate heartfelt giving with the timeless and iconic location at Camp Ondessonk situated between the Chapel of the North American Martyrs and the original Dining Hall. Camp Ondessonk holds deep and lasting memories for generations of campers, staff members, volunteers, and donors. The heartbeat of Camp Ondessonk echoes within every hymn, unit cheer, dining hall song, and gentle fall of leaves ever heard in Le Coeur. Members of Le Coeur Society will preserve the mission of Camp Ondessonk through philanthropic gifts that will ensure that the Camp O experience will be available to generations to come. Why has Arney named Camp Ondessonk in her estate plans? It’s simple. She says, “Camp is in my DNA, and I believe that my DNA is in Camp. I love that 60 years after my lodge initiation, campers and staff feel today the very same way I have felt all these years. Whether I know you or not, if you are an Ondessonk person, you are family. I just want to play a part in perpetuating the almost indescribable spirit of warmth, friendship, genuine love, camaraderie that Camp has brought to thousands of youngsters for more than a half century.” Her recommendation to you, “Do it! Join the Le Coeur Society. Your impact will be felt for years beyond our own lives!” For more information about how you can name Camp Ondessonk in your estate plans, visit https://ondessonk.com/giving/ways-to-give/planned-gift/ or contact Judy Blase Woodruff at 618-791-5655 or [email protected]. If you have already named Camp Ondessonk in your estate plans, please click here and complete the Letter of Intent to communicate and describe your estate or legacy gift intentions. You can become a Founding Member of Le Coeur Society by returning your Letter of Intent by December 1, 2021. |
11. Join me as a member of the Campfire Circle!
"When I think of who to thank for Camp Ondessonk, I’m grateful for the talented and dedicated people who staffed Camp before me, with me, and since me." 
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By Michal Horace
In the early 1970s, my older brother introduced me to Camp Ondessonk. The rest is history! My first of three years as a camper was 1976. I went on to become a Counselor in Training (CIT) in 1979 and a staff member for four summers – 1980 through 1983. After beginning a career as a professional church minister, I came back to Camp as a volunteer in 2018, 2019, and 2021. My work in church ministry began 28 years ago, specializing in ministry to and with youth and young adults. I currently direct the Young Adult Initiative Project at Saint Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology in Southern Indiana, where we help parishes engage today’s young adults. I have no doubt that my four years as a member of Camp’s staff contributed to my passion and early formation in ministering to and with youth and young adults. As a youth and young adult, Camp O’s influence on me was significant. I learned independence during my time away from home. I learned how to be accountable for my work and my actions as a staff member with duties and responsibilities. I also learned how to play guitar at Camp and fell in love with folk music. Plus, I made lifelong friends with whom I still keep in touch 40 years later. When I think of who to thank for Camp Ondessonk, I’m grateful for the talented and dedicated people who staffed Camp before me, with me, and since me. I’m thankful for the amazing topography in and around Camp with an abundance of trees, creeks, lakes, wildlife, and those amazing, massive rock formations. I’m most thankful for the Catholic Church and the Diocese of Belleville for establishing Camp Ondessonk more than 62 years ago. Most folks might not realize it, but Catholic outdoor education is actually a form of youth ministry and evangelization of our faith. That foresight of the Church established a youth summer camp in 1959 that has formed hundreds of thousands of young people through the lenses of adventure, community, God’s creation, and the Catholic faith. While my monthly Campfire Circle donations help Camp today, that’s not how I think of it. By the time I was at Camp all those years ago, generous donors had already provided the money, labor, and materials for Ondessonk to be established and sustained. I was the beneficiary of their generosity. Others paid it forward for me and today it is my turn to support Camp financially to ensure that tomorrow’s campers and staff can enjoy the same amazing experience. A few years ago, my financial donations to camp were sporadic and only once a year. When I first heard of the Campfire Circle, I realized that I could give the same amount – if not a little more – but I could do it in a way that helped Camp’s financial stability by splitting that amount into monthly payments. It was simple and convenient. As a bonus, Camp regularly updates me and all the Campfire Circle members on how specifically our monthly donations are helping Camp. After a year in the Campfire Circle and knowing how my donations were being put to good work, I increased my monthly donation to my current level of monthly giving. I consider it a sound investment in the future of our young people. Please consider joining me in paying it forward as a member of the Campfire Circle and assist Camp in ministering to the next generation of young people. Heepwah! If you would like to join the Campfire Circle, click here and complete the monthly gift form, or contact Judy Blase Woodruff at 618-791-5655 or [email protected]. |
12. Ondessonk Snapshots
Labor Day Friends Weekend
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Camp Ondessonk's Annual Labor Day Friends Weekend looked a bit differently this year as continued mitigation efforts against COVID 19 were in full force. Invitations were sent to Camp Ondessonk Staff Alumni, adults who have volunteered for Camp since Labor Day of 2019, and adults who have made cash or in-kind gift(s) totaling $100 or more to Camp since Labor Day of 2019. Each invited individual was welcome to bring immediate family members (spouses, children, siblings, or parents) and/or "sponsor" one additional guest. More than 200 attendees appreciated the incredible weather on Sunday, and enjoyed swimming, hiking, GaGa, and of course, the camaraderie of new and old friends.
BBQ Fundraiser
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Last Fall, Father Brian Barker, and Randy Barton helped organize the St Joseph Annual BBQ Fundraiser. The event featured Randy's famous ribs as parishioners helped serve food to the local Marion community. The occasion raised more than $4,000.00 that was graciously donated to Camp Ondessonk. A special Heepwah to Father Brian Barker, Randy Barton, and St Josephs for their support. To learn more about starting your third-party fundraiser, click here.
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Getting Ready for Camp Webinars
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Camp Ondessonk staff are introducing another series of webinars to help campers and camper families prepare for Summer Camp. The series will feature Camping Services Director Nolan Hurst, Sr. Director of Communications Tony Vrooman, and Event and Marketing Coordinator Emily Reider. Attendees will receive a virtual tour of Camp and meet senior leadership staff. The Getting Ready for Camp Webinars will be held March 23, 2022, April 12, 2022, April 30, 2022, May 12, 2022, and May 23, 2022. To learn more about these events, click here.
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Ready For Launch
Hold on to your mobile phones because Camp Ondessonk is about to launch a new website. Camp Ondessonk staff and CDS Office Technologies in Marion, Ill., have been working feverishly on creating a new, responsive, mobile-friendly website with intuitive navigational design. The countdown has begun. Get ready for launch on December 17, 2021.
13. Stable News
"Horses don’t care how you look, what you wear, your political alignment, how popular you are in school, or religious background; they only care if they feel safe with you or not." |
By Catherine Limkeman, Equestrian Director
One of the summer staff’s favorite things to ask about is where we get our horses. Like our human staff, our four-legged staff come from all over the country with a diverse background of stories. Some of them came from great homes with loving families, some were former athletes like barrel racers, cart-racing, eventing, or showing. Some were cattle horses or cart-pullers, some were just recreational trail horses, and a few came from rescue-situations. Just like with people, the way their past shapes them changes how they relate to others and see their world. You will find that some of the horses are rule-followers, and if you ask them to do something other than what they think is their job, they will get flustered. Some of them are a bit more daring and like to push the boundaries a bit and enjoy venturing out of line to sneak a snack. Some of them are just there for the attention and don’t care what you do as long as they are with others. But when you mix all those stories and experiences and preferences with kids who also have their own unique stories and preferences, you get to see how the combination of horse and rider mesh. A good trail ride is a small picture of a community as 20 personalities work together to have a great outdoor experience. Horses don’t care how you look, what you wear, your political alignment, how popular you are in school, or religious background; they only care if they feel safe with you or not. Though people are the leaders in the team dynamic between horse and rider, the rider must learn that leadership doesn’t simply mean telling them what to do and forcing them to listen. They have to work with their horse to get to a place of agreement. The more horses you ride, the better you become at communicating with different personality types. Learning to work with different personality types and getting that horse to a place where they trust you directly transfers to learning how to work with and communicate with other people. Like other areas of camp, the camper/horse connection has a progression of depth. The intro to horses starts with mini camp as they learn basic care and have a short pony ride. Learning to see horses as living creatures instead of just a resource for fun is the start. Next in the progression comes our hour rides with traditional camp. When campers first walk up to the barn, you can quickly get a glimpse of their personalities in the way they present themselves. As they get their helmets and sit for the “how to ride” spiel, are they quiet and attentive? Are they easily distracted? Are they enthusiastic and chomping at the bit? As we gain a small understanding of the camper’s personalities, we then try to pair them with one of our horses whose personality will complement the campers for a fun, safe riding experience. If the camper seems a bit nervous, we typically put them on our laid-back horses who just want to follow the horse in front of them no matter what the kid does. If the rider is especially energetic, we will pair them with one of our horses who tends to be especially lazy so that the camper can help bring energy to that horse and their energy levels balance out. As fun as it is to try to matchmake the riders for our one-hour time slot, it’s even more fun when the horse and rider are paired for longer periods of time. Our Horse Camps and Horse Adventure programs lean into that relationship connection between campers and their horse for the week. Giving the campers a horse who is their responsibility to care for and ride creates a bond and develops mutual respect as they grow to care for each other. We find that as campers spend more time with their horses and learn their quirks and idiosyncrasies, they learn how to better communicate what they need of their horse which in turn increases the ability to navigate obstacles as a team. Because we believe that working with horses increases one’s ability to work as a team member, we assign all our wranglers at least one project horse for the summer. Those matchings are made with a specific goal in mind, whether it is a horse training goal, a staff development goal, or a little bit of both. 😉 Just like with people, some personality types just don’t jive well between horse and person but also just like with people, our horses need to learn how to deal patiently with people whose personality clashes with theirs. We want those pairings to be mutually beneficial and to help both grow through the challenge of working together and develop a natural connection. The amazing thing about working through conflict with a horse is it’s hard to ignore when a 1,500 lb. creature is telling you that you are too harsh in your communication style or too timid in confrontation. You can’t just brush it off or ask the horse to suck it up the same way one might with a person. When you are working through something with a horse, often times, they match your energy level, so the angrier you are, the more stubborn they get, but when you become patient and gentle, so do they. Working through those differences as a horse/person team helps develop the skills needed to address interpersonal conflict. And usually, on the other side of that “conversation,” both parties leave having gained something and grown from the experience. The organic matchup between horse and rider is incredibly interesting. When they connect and jive you often see that it is because they both understand the other’s story or biggest fear. You find that the person who is learning to overcome anxiety, gravitates to the horse that is fearful. School athletes gravitate toward the horse that appreciates discipline and consistency or has a competitive streak. You find that the horse that came from an abusive background gravitates toward the person who has known deep pain. There is something about the silent, giant gentleness that can impact a person deeply. Though they are physically much stronger than humans, they chose to follow and submit to us. That kind of acceptance of you as a person, your strengths, weaknesses, insecurities, without judgement is incredibly healing, all of it; is rare and deeply impactful. I am blessed that I get to help facilitate that, and I get to watch it happen daily. This past summer I got to watch as one of my wranglers, who was forced into a leadership position, gravitated toward a horse that was overcoming a recent impairment in eyesight and had to regain her confidence again with that new change in sight. Both had to learn how to step into situations they were unsure about with confidence, and as they both grew in their confidence the bond that developed between them led to hallmark-moments with the horse running to her when she called or resting her head against her in a caress. The thing about camp horses is though some might see them as a bunch of misfits, they are the best of the best. Many of the horses end up at camp because they don’t quite fit in other equestrian settings. Our horses may not be the fastest, the prettiest, the most athletic, but they are caring, hard-working, and impact thousands of kids lives on a regular basis. They put up with a lot of yanking, pulling, and working all day in the hot summer sun, yet they still come in every morning, asking to be petted and loved on. They love their job, and they sure are good at it. |
14. Family News
Cassie (Buccheit) and Ryne Gorsuch's baby, Liam Thomas Gorsuch
Zachary Jefferson's children’s book-
Leo Goes to the Zoo
Jakob Sommers graduating from SIUC
Steph Lysy and her dog
Samm Lukert and her fiancé, Ethan
Ali and Luke Wild's baby, Garen “Ren” Kazimier Wild
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15. Lodge Member Spotlight: Tristen Payne
"Lodge has given Tristen an incredible appreciation for nature and a passion to help protect and preserve it." |
By Emily Reider, Event & Marketing Coordinator
The Lodges of Ondessonk and Tekakwitha hold a dear place in Camp Ondessonk’s rich history of tradition. Throughout the years, the leadership of Lodge has been comprised of members who strive to continue the legacy that has come before them. Newly elected Lodge official, Tristen Payne of Olney, Ill., shares her journey in Lodge and what it means to her. From the beginning of her induction in 2015, Lodge has played a part in making Tristen want to look beyond herself and actively serve those around her. Between 2018 and 2021, Tristen served as a council official for the Evansville Lodge Council, where she has led and participated in many projects to better serve Camp and her community. At first, she led projects that she was more comfortable with, such as city trash sweeps. As she grew in her leadership and ability, Tristen began branching out and taking on bigger service projects both at Camp and within her local community. Some of her most notable involvements include: helping out at March Work Weekends, visiting her former grade school, St. Joseph Catholic School in Olney, to talk with students about why they should go to Camp, assembling colorful and encouraging cards to send to local nursing homes during the pandemic to lift the spirits of the residents, visiting nursing homes where individuals were able to stand outside the residents’ windows and talk to them on the phone during a time when residents were not allowed to have in-person visitors, and most recently, she organized a community-wide food drive during the Spring of 2021. Tristen’s involvement in Lodge at the Council level has helped her tremendously. As a newly elected Lodge official she continues to branch out and generate new ideas to ensure volunteer Lodge projects remain consistent throughout the year. Lodge has given Tristen an incredible appreciation for nature and a passion to help protect and preserve it. As mentioned earlier, trash sweeps are always go-to service projects for the Evansville Lodge Council. Tristen now wants to expand on that idea with the Preservation Project. This project will allow for every Lodge member, no matter where they are located, to get more involved in service to nature. One day, after returning home from Camp, she was hiking at a local state park and noticed a lot of trash in the area. As she was picking it up, it occurred to her that parks exist in every state, so it would be easy for all members to participate. Members can wear their sash and spend time helping preserve their local parks and environments for future generations to enjoy, just as we teach campers each week during Summer Camp. Every week of summer, new members are inducted into Lodge and have the opportunity to become active in their Councils. The service that our Councils perform is proof that the commitment to Lodge does not just end with a colored sash but rather remains an active endeavor throughout the entire year and keeps members serving Camp, God, and our communities. To continue this important work, it is essential that members pay their Lodge dues. It not only affects the day-to-day operations of Lodge, but it goes back to supporting Camp, and even members’ own communities. Tristen upholds that by staying on top of paying Lodge dues, because she knows active members play a vital role in supporting the work of our 10 Councils located all over the country. These Councils serve Camp through volunteering at work weekends, fundraising for Camp’s Scholarship Fund, and aiding at other Camp events, just to name a few examples. Dues allow Camp to continue to induct new members each week every summer and ensure supplies are paid for as needed. Dues also directly help Camp by allowing members to attend and volunteer their time at Lodge Reunions and to work weekends at no cost. Tristin is excited to help us continue this great Lodge tradition of service together. Heepwah Tristen! |
16. Thank you Holy Spirit Parish and Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish!
"Holy Spirit Church in Carterville, Ill., and Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church in Herrin, Ill., joined together this past summer to support Camp through the Fin & Feather Rib Sale." |
As a non-profit organization, Camp Ondessonk relies on the generosity of many in order to sustain and enhance programs. Sister Phyllis Schenk graciously helped organize two parishes to raise funds through a third-party fundraiser to further our mission.
Holy Spirit Church in Carterville, Ill., and Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church in Herrin, Ill., joined together this past summer to support Camp through the Fin & Feather Rib Sale. Each parish handled promoting the sale and signing up families and friends for the $20 per slab of ribs. Eric Bateman, from Holy Spirit Parish, organized the event with Fin & Feather Restaurant. Half the price of each slab sold went to Fin & Feather Restaurant to cover the cost of the ribs and half went to Camp Ondessonk. We salute their work in helping Camp Ondessonk meet our mission to provide outdoor and spiritual adventures that empower kids of all ages! A third-party event, like this, is a type of fundraiser hosted by an individual, group of friends, organization, school, or community group that benefits Camp Ondessonk. It is planned and executed independently from Camp and can be a simple one-person effort or a more involved, multi-person event. Proceeds from the fundraiser are then given to Camp to use where needed most. Do you have an idea for a third-party event? Contact Judy Blase Woodruff at 618-791-5655 or [email protected]. |
17. Volunteer Spotlight: Dan Jansen
"If you don't mind working hard and getting a little dirty, then volunteering at Camp Ondessonk might be right for you." |
By Dan Jansen
My first memory of Camp Ondessonk was traveling with my parents to drop off my brothers Dave and Mike at Camp in 1962. The three of us have been directly or indirectly involved with Camp ever since. I became a camper in 1965 and 1967, then a Counselor in Training (CIT) in 1969. I was a counselor from 1970 through 1972. During those summers I made friends for life and had experiences and adventures I never would have had if I had remained in my hometown of Germantown, Ill. To this day, I think about the people I've met and the experiences we shared and just burst out laughing, thinking of the fun we had. I'm sure I speak for many former staff members when I say, working at Camp Ondessonk was one of the greatest experiences I've had in my life. But, as we all must do, we grow up and get jobs and move away. In the 34 years I lived in Texas, I never stopped thinking about Camp. I would get involved by either lending support financially or volunteering at Camp on work weekends whenever I was back in Illinois. When I finally retired seven years ago, I decided to become a volunteer each summer during summer camp. This summer I volunteered for three weeks in Maintenance, and I plan to continue volunteering each summer for as long as I can. There is always something that needs to be repaired, repainted, or rebuilt at Ondessonk because of the many buildings involved. The good thing is, you don't need any special skills to be a Camp volunteer! Having worked in hospitals for 40 years, I certainly didn't have any repair skills. Turns out, you don't need any. There is always someone there to help you. One project this summer was to rebuild the rock wall in front of the original dining hall – which I had never done before. Thanks to my buddy, Ted Grannan, and my brother Dave, we got the job done. And it looks good, if I do say so myself! If you don't mind working hard and getting a little dirty, then volunteering at Camp Ondessonk might be right for you. I guarantee you will make new friends and have an excellent time being out in nature in the Shawnee National Forest. If you would like to volunteer during summer camp or throughout the year, click here or contact Lucia Hodges at 618-695-2489, ext. 145, or [email protected]. |
2021 Camp Ondessonk Board of Directors
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Tracy Beckham Phipps, President
Attorney Sandberg Phoenix & Von Gontard P.C. Thomas Young Sr., Vice President Farrier, self-employed Jacquelyn Savage McKay, Secretary Retired Sara Simonin Organizational Specialist Enterprise Holdings Foundation Belinda Bauer Retired Speech-Language Pathologist Reverend Steven L. Beatty Parish Pastor & Camp Ondessonk Chaplain St. Kateri Tekakwitha Parish, Ridgway, IL Katie Birge Associate and Head of Platform M25 Steve Bushong Professor Southwestern Illinois College Chris Cahnovsky Regional Manager Illinois Environmental Protection Agency Dennis Dusek Retired Orthopedic Surgeon |
Sandy Eversole
Manager of Financial Planning Mercy Carrie Keller Attorney SmithAmundsen, LLC Kyle Klues Structural Design Engineer Kent Plotner Attorney Heyl, Royster, Voelker & Allen, P.C. Scott Wobbe Security Specialist United States Air Force Ex Officio Trustees: Most Reverend Michael G. McGovern Bishop Diocese of Belleville Very Reverend John C. Iffert, V.G. Vicar General Diocese of Belleville Jonathan Birdsong Superintendent of Schools/Director of Education Diocese of Belleville |
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Double Your Impact!Many employers offer a matching gift program that can increase the value of your gift to Camp Ondessonk. Some companies also will match charitable contributions given by retirees or spouses and will give up to one year after the donation to request a match.
Click here to find out if your employer has a matching gift program, and to learn how to access the program. |
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