The following post is so special to me. As we've been planning our blog schedule, one thing we knew we wanted to include is personal stories via guest blogs and interviews. We know there are hundreds, if not thousands, of stories to share and people to hear from, but it was so overwhelming to think of where to start. Gloves came to mind almost immediately. He just finished his last summer here as Summer Program Director and began his teaching career this fall. (I should add here that he may be back some this summer, so never fear! He may serve in a more limited capacity with respect to his teaching schedule.) He is a veteran staffer and has a great perspective on the ministry done here. We are so excited to share this with you and want to thank Gloves for being willing to take time out of his busy schedule to be interviewed. Enjoy.
When did you start working here and what positions have you served?
I started working at Waukaway during the summer of 2016. I served as a Summer Staffer for two summers, and the Summer Program Director for an additional two summers.
Why did you originally decide to work at Waukaway?
I wanted to work a job that would help my spiritual growth and be fun. I enjoyed being a Summer Staffer, but then the position for Summer Program Director was opening up. I knew I had one more summer before I had to start an "adult job." I felt God leading me to that position. So I prayed and continued to ponder on it, which then led me to apply for the position. In the end, I now know that God used that position for me to become a leader in my community and workforce. I had to get used to making hard decisions and speaking in front of people. I had to become an observer of my staff to make sure they were taken care of. I use all of these lessons I learned at Waukaway now as a high school teacher in Starkville.
What made you come back year, after year?
Waukaway is not like any other job I have worked. The staff at Waukaway really promoted a family atmosphere. They really cared about who you are, and where you are at spiritually with the Lord. It was always a place where I felt at home, and it's a place where I could feel God working.
What are some of the biggest life lessons you learned through serving here?
Probably understanding that I can’t do everything by myself. God has created us to work together as a community to further his Kingdom. I had to learn to rely on others for support. The first time I was "ball" (activity leader) of what we call "fully-loaded campfire" & target sports was the first time this lesson was brought to my attention. I tried to do everything myself. I did not delegate jobs to people. So, the event started out very poorly and the administration had to step in to help. I had forgotten to bring the chocolate and marshmallows to campfire! This lesson was also reinforced while I was Summer Program Director. I had to really rely on my staff to get stuff done and it was my job to make sure they were set up for success.
What kind of spiritual growth did you experience as a result of your time here?
The spiritual growth I experienced centered on learning how to lead well and trusting in people that God had put before me to help.
What would you tell someone considering bringing a group to Waukaway?
I would tell them that Waukaway is the place that the Lord uses to change lives for His glory. This is a place where God’s love is evident.
What would you say to someone who is considering working here?
The days are long, weeks are short, and the summer is shorter. The time spent at Waukaway is spent being molded into the man or woman God has called you to be.
What does Waukaway mean to you?
Family