ARAPAHOE — The dog days of summer for high-school students are usually reserved for trips to the beach and hanging out with friends. But for a rising senior at East Bladen High, it meant four weeks of intense leadership training at Camp Don Lee in Arapahoe.

Marley Ketterer, who is the daughter of Dawn and Alan Maynard of White Lake, recently returned from the four-week Leader In Training program, where she experienced a highly challenging set of courses designed for leadership growth, personal faith development and a deeper knowledge of outdoor skills.

“The LIT experience changed my life and helped me grow spiritually,” she said. “I now have friendships I will cherish and nurture for life from the experience I had at Camp Don Lee.”

During the program, Ketterer learned and sharpened her skills in the areas of sailing, canoeing, kayaking, archery, challenge course and outdoor camping facilitation. In addition, she was able to develop a greater understanding of worship, leading creative arts, and childhood development.

“The outstanding reputation of this program is known throughout the region. Employers, colleges and scholarship selection committees have viewed this program very favorably over the years,” Dawn Maynard said. “Many of the young people who complete the program regard it as a faith-enriching and life-changing experience.”

The leadership program gave Ketterer the opportunity to earn certification in such areas as American Red Cross lifeguarding, American Red Cross first aid/CPR and AED for the professional rescuer as well as wilderness first aid and U.S. Sailing Association sailing counselor.

The certifications are designed to prepare the candidates for jobs at summer camps or other organizations and facilities.

Ketterer also participated in a variety of activities at the camp, including group Bible studies, fitness and wellness training, planning and leading worship experiences, camp counselor rotation, and overnight sailing and kayak experiences.

“She had an amazing time at this special place where you can feel God’s presence everywhere,” Dawn Maynard said.

After her senior year, Ketterer is now on track to be employed at Camp Don Lee in the summer of 2017.

W. Curt Vincent can be reached by calling 910-862-4163.

http://www.bladenjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_Marley1.jpg

http://www.bladenjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/web1_Marley2.jpg

W. Curt Vincent

cvincent@civitasmedia.com