heartland newsletter
august 2024
Welcome to Heartland’s newsletter, where you’ll stay up to date on all things Heartland!
Events - Projects - Staff Updates - Camp & Retreat News - And More!
BEST DAY EVER
I spoke with a grandfather after Grandparent Camp who told me his eight year old granddaughter had looked at him during their weekend at camp and proclaimed, “This is the best day ever!”. It was clear to me that he felt the same way.
Heartland Camps and Retreat Center fosters Christ-centered relationships through the camp environment. We just finished our 67th summer of games, campfires, horseback riding, swimming, exploring nature, and diving into God’s word together in Creation.
We are grateful for all the support from our ministry partners. It’s through donations from individuals, congregations, and the shared mission dollars of Heartland and Northern Kansas Presbyteries that God makes “best days ever” happen at Heartland.
In this issue of the Heartland Newsletter, you’ll get a summer recap, including a video overview of the summer, read an update on recent improvements, and see our upcoming events for ways you can participate and support our ministry.
I look forward to seeing you around the campfire soon!
Dan Scheneman
Executive Director
God is on the move
Wow, summer has flown by! All summer, I have been reminded time and time again how consistent and creative God works in this holy space called Heartland Camps. There have been countless examples of perfect timing, spirit-led questions, and the right people being placed together. God is truly amazing! Here’s what some campers have said about their experience:
“I am not used to people caring when I cry or am sad. This week when we prayed in groups Megan reached over to pull me up and then people were hugging me. I realized people do care. I realized I don’t have to do life on my own. I can reach out to people.”
“[A former summer staff] told me that the people may seem fake. They would be too happy and positive... but that is actually just who they are. I have seen that to be true, too. The people here just love the Lord and the kids and are so excited to serve even when it is hard.”
I have been so grateful for the goodness of God in this space. Thank you to everyone who has prayed for us this summer!
Jared Briscoe
Program Director
Heartland’s Benefit Concert
Great food, great friends, and a great cause. We're delighted to have DownRiver Collective performing this year at our annual benefit concert, A Night Under the Stars! DownRiver Collective blurs the lines between traditional folk and progressive acoustic music, drawing on diverse backgrounds to create a fresh and familiar sound. We know you'll enjoy their music under the stars with us, so head to our link below to purchase your tickets. If you’re not able to attend the event, you can still participate in our silent auction! See some of the items up for bid here. All proceeds from the evening will support Heartland Camps.
Date: September 12th
Time: 6:00 - 9:00pm
Location: Heartland Camps & Retreat Center
Cost: $75.00 per person
We are still looking for additional items to add to our silent auction. If you have an item to donate, please email us! (right click to copy email address)
Much to be Thankful for
We are overwhelmed by the generosity of our ministry partners, with donations this year totaling over $256,800, including over $28,000 for master plan projects, over $10,000 in scholarships, and over $64,000 of in-kind donations. Here are some of the recent ways these donations have impacted Heartland:
An eleven-year-old horse named Lite has joined our herd, allowing us to serve more campers this summer.
A small pavilion and four picnic tables were added near Cray Lodge, offering respite from the elements for our campers and guests.
Windy Hill campsite now features a larger pavilion courtesy of the Giving Circle (a staff alumni group), enhancing the camping experience for our summer campers.
An Eagle Scout created a ring of bench swings near the volleyball court for guests and campers to enjoy throughout the year.
Upcoming: We received a $24,000 grant to upgrade the doors on Cray Lodge with commercial-grade glass "storefront" doors, which will enhance accessibility, energy efficiency, and bring a more modern look! Additionally, initial approval has been received to replace the deck between Cray and Nunemaker Lodges in 2025.
Upcoming: Plans are underway to relocate and upgrade the corral and saddling pens, and add a new loafing shed.
It’s because of you, our dedicated and loyal community, that we’ve been able to take on these projects. We look forward to the remainder of the year and planning more events to connect with new ministry partners as we continue to build relationships and impact lives for Jesus Christ.
upcoming at heartland
Our annual benefit concert, A Night Under the Stars, is a special evening at Heartland supporting our summer camp ministry. This night will include a tasty picnic dinner and dessert, drinks, silent auction, music entertainment, and fellowship.
Thursday, September 12th. Tickets available now.
Looking for an unforgettable way to experience fall with your family? Look no further than Heartland’s Autumn Adventures! Family friendly games for all ages, pumpkins, a climbing wall, horse rides, hatchets & archery, and SO MUCH MORE!
Open weekends Sept 27th- Oct 27th.
Come enjoy a game or two of disc golf while supporting our Christian Camping Program for children and youth! This is a casual, family-friendly, all levels tournament.
Saturday, November 2nd.
Heartland is committed to offering top-quality summer camp programs that every family can afford. That's why the cost of each overnight camp is subsidized by 50% through YOUR support. Join us for our Day of Caring to support Heartland Camps.
Thursday, November 21st.
birthday parties at heartland!
If you’re looking for an unforgettable birthday experience for your child this year, Heartland has you covered.
Our birthday party packages include an activity of your choice, plus a shelter rental for cake and presents. Invite your friends to ride horses, throw hatchets, zipline through the trees, or splash in our pool!
Retreat news
The Hospitality Department had a great summer hosting many guest groups returning for their annual or biannual retreats, as well as a number of new groups experiencing Heartland for the first time. We can't wait to jump into another busy fall! Here is what some guests have said about their retreats:
“Such a great weekend! Already looking at dates for next year.”
“We’ve enjoyed staying at Heartland for several years. Really like the firewood available, the nice porta potties and clean uncrowded campsite with the firepit.”
“Good facilities and friendly and helpful staff.”
Interested in joining the Heartland family? Check out some of our open positions!
Activities Facilitator, social media team, and more!
your donations make a difference!
heartland wish list
We are grateful for your donation of items that are in new, like new, or good condition.
Gator, Golf Cart, or Side by Side
Reliable Vehicles (Cars, Vans, or Trucks)*
Commercial Oven/Skillet
Couches/Sofas in New or Gently Used Condition
Pool Vacuum (Robotic Cleaner)
Commercial Grade Cambro Food Storage Containers
Washing Machines (top loading) and Dryers
Table Lamps
Basketballs, Volleyballs, Frisbees, Gator Balls*
Ninja Warrior Obstacle Course*
Hammock Straps*
Crayola Washable Paint
Globe String Lights*
Igloo Water Coolers*
* = high priority camp needs
If you’re in a position to help with significant upgrades, we’d love to share our master plan goals with you. Please reach out. Examples include doors for our Hotel-Style Lodges, roof replacement for the walkway to Nunemaker, renovations at the Aquatic Center, and more.
Did you know?
To help our friends of Heartland with estate planning, our website now features:
a gift intention form
a qualified charitable distribution tool
a will creator
tools for donating stocks
While including Heartland Camps and Retreat Center in your will is optional, legacy gifts to Heartland can leave a lasting impact on our mission and provide financial and tax benefits for you and your family.
