Shiloh is excited to announce the Camp Directors for 2022 are Angela Elem and Jason Darden!
They are collaborating to bring their many years of experience working with young people to serve Camp Shiloh as we reopen this summer. We knew summer of 2022 would look a little different than it has before, and hiring a team will give us a strong leadership platform to continue our mission of equipping youth with tools that build hope.
Read our conversation with Jason and Angela below to get to know them and their passion for the work of Shiloh.
Question: What experiences have you had at Camp Shiloh and in ministry?
Angela: “After being a camper I have served at Camp Shiloh every summer since 2007 starting as a Counselor in Trainer and have been the Assistant Camp Director for 6 summers.”
Jason: “I was a Camp Counselor in 2000 and 2001, and have remained connected as I have continued in ministry as a preacher, church planter, chaplain and now a theology professor at Harding University.”
Question: What is your favorite area or activity at Camp Shiloh?
Angela: “My favorite area of camp will always be the concrete slab. Although it was removed it was where all the action was. Now it is in front of the laundry room because you can see most of the active areas in camp and watch all the slips and falls and all the joy and laughter. In the center of chaotic joy.”
Jason: “My two favorite places at camp were spending time around the campfire and crossing up campers on the basketball court of course!”
Question: What did you learn from a camper or teen that was memorable?
Jason: “Attending one summer of camp can create a bond that will last a lifetime.”
Angela: “I learned that there is a time to be close and a time to give space and a time to move and a time to be still. A lot of times as adults we try to get children to stop and process and that isn’t always in the best interest of the child if they haven’t ever been trained to do so.”
Question: What experience are you hoping every camper will have this summer?
Jason: “My prayer is that every camper will experience genuine love from the staff and counselors and mature in their spirituality.”
Angela: “I hope that this summer every child we get to work with has a moment where they forget that life is difficult and strange back home. And yes, adjustments have to be made but they can still find joy.”
We are excited for Jason and Angela to lead Camp Shiloh 2022 with our fantastic campers (we’ve missed you!). Join us in welcoming them to their new roles as we begin hiring summer staff and planning our re-opening with a clear vision of sharing God’s love at Camp Shiloh.
General notes:
-Summer staff applications are open, apply here: www.shilohnyc.org/apply
-Camper application will be available at the end of March 2022. Be on the lookout for an email from Camp Docs about registration. If you want to be on our mailing list, contact us.
