What do you do at Camp Kawartha?
My title is Philanthropy Coordinator, so in broad strokes that means that I conduct donor research, help with proposal writing, donor relations and stewardship. Events management is also my responsibility, which includes our popular Surf ‘n’ Turf each June; I am on the Capital Campaign Cabinet; and I provide marketing support for the Outdoor Education Department. And then, of course, there is the “other duties as assigned” catch-all. LOL I think every job description has that included. LoL, again.
How long have you worked for Camp Kawartha?
I’m in my fifth year.
What’s your favourite part of your job?
I must say that I really enjoy the staff. It’s a great group to work with, and we are flush with so many talented, knowledgeable people. What really motivates me though is knowing that I am helping children, youth and adults learn about the natural environment, to appreciate and love it. I was lucky to have parents who gave me every opportunity to explore and play in the outdoors. To my mind, the Camp is a special place that gives people a chance to be immersed in nature as I experienced as a child, and I think that is important…at so many levels.
What were your favourite experiences in nature as a child?
My parents started me camping when I was two, and I continue to camp to this day (I’m taking my 4-year-old Great-Niece, Anna, camping this summer! It’s her first time.). I have so many memories of my time camping and being in nature. The sights, sounds, smells, and feel of being outdoors always grounds and excites me. I think that when you are outside, and if you focus on being in the moment, a nature experience is exhilarating. Who could forget sharing the moment in the life of a wild animal? Magical.
What do you love about Winter?
I love each of our seasons because each offers me something different, something I need. Winter is generous visually most of all. By that I mean that I ‘see’ the season – ice on the lake, frost on my window, a blanket of white on the ground, animal tracks across the field – I love that.
What’s an item on your bucket list?
If I had the money, I’d love to see a polar bear in the wild; travel the Nahanni with a group of family and friends; enjoy the Aurora Borealis up close; sleep in an igloo, maybe build one; see an old growth forest; kayak on the ocean; the list goes on. Guess I’d better buy a lottery ticket this week! LoL
What was the best book you’ve read recently?
I haven’t read it yet. LoL A gift from my sister Kathy at Christmas was The Secret History of Soldiers: How Canadians Survived the Great War by Tim Cook. I like him as an author, and I’m really looking forward to getting it started. I think she wants to borrow it after I’m done, so I’d better get moving!
What would you rate 10/10?
My sister’s chili! When we go camping, she makes up a big pot. Have that with some baked potatoes straight out of the fire and a Caesar salad and WOW! Life is good! 😊
