Preparing to Lead

My name is Kevin Korthuis, my life at Birch Bay Ranch started this year in 2013. While my experiences with BBR are very new I have learned so much and grown incredibly here. Over the years I have had the privilege to serve at Camp Nakamun and Gull Lake Camp; two amazing camps that have been able to reach thousands of kids. 

This year God blessed me with being able to come to BBR to work with and learn from the amazing people here. BBR while yes is one of many over night kid camps throughout Alberta it is one of the most special camp I've had the privilege to work for. BBR has amazing facilities and resources that this summer were used to reach 800 kids and bring them closer to Gods kingdom. On top of that there were well over 50 staff members and volunteers who have left these gates and will never be the same because of their experiences at BBR; I am one of those impacted staff members. I have been pursuing a career in camp ministries for the past 2 years and when I came here I never thought I would ever be ready to lead a camp. After this summer I can say I am no longer scared to pursue camp director positions because BBR has taught and prepared me in ways I couldn't have imagined in the spring time. I didn't think I was a very good public speaker but I had 9 opportunities to speak to the kids at camp fires about God and what He means to us. I also was taken under the wing of the Director and shown how to lead in a loving and Godly way, I will carry those lessons with me forever. More over the practical things I learned about leading at BBR I grew so much closer with God, being in an environment like what BBR provides it's hard not to grow and learn about God. At BBR I am surrounded by amazing Godly people who have a passion for children ministries and Showing Gods love to everyone around them. The daily devotions and God filled camp fires helped me dig deeper into God and ultimately help make me who I am right now.

I would not be the same if it wasn't for Birch Bay Ranch and the experience I have gained here. Please realize that by taking away this place or by making it so financially difficult that it can no longer be effective for Gods kingdom, it will be taking away a place of growth and love that has been used for decades to impact people for Gods glory. It is my hope and prayer that you will consider all the lives impacted by BBR and act upon what is right in Gods eyes before you make any decisions about the future of Birch Bay Ranch.

Thank you.

-Kevin Korthius