

Newsletter
February 2024

Newsletter / February 2024
Meet Our New Camp Director, Ben Freitas
Dear Friends,
Growing up in a broken home, I experienced turmoil and instability from a young age. Interestingly, Wesleyan Woods became a place of solace for me during my childhood. My older sister would often drop me off at camp to go fishing, providing me with moments of peace amidst life's challenges.
Seven years ago, my world shattered around me, leaving me feeling alone and broken. In that moment of despair, I humbly surrendered to the divine grace of Jesus Christ. His mercy offered me a second chance, reuniting me with my family and illuminating a path of service and redemption.
Guided by faith in Jesus Christ, he has led me to roles in Youth Ministry and leading a Recovery Program. In December of 2021, I embarked on a new chapter, leaving my secular job behind to become the Lead Chaplain for two county jails—a testament to God's transformative power in my life.
Now, entrusted with the leadership of Wesleyan Woods Campground, I am humbled by the opportunity to steward a place that holds such profound significance in my journey. As a young boy, I found solace and peace within these grounds, unaware of the divine purpose unfolding around me. Today, I am committed to ensuring that Wesleyan Woods remains a sanctuary—a safe haven where individuals can find solace, community, and connection with the divine.
I am eager to witness the unfolding of God's plan within these sacred grounds and to be an instrument of His grace and love. Together, let us embark on this journey of faith and fellowship, as we nurture a space where hearts are healed, spirits are renewed, and lives are transformed.
I cannot wait to meet you soon out at Wesleyan Woods, either at your campsite or the Gibson Center for Ice Cream. Your presence at Camp is greatly valued!
In His Service,
Ben Freitas
Camp Director
Wesleyan Woods Campground
Save The Dates
Time To Camp Out!
Enjoy the outdoors and make Wesleyan Woods your outdoor escape place for 2024!
Call: (989)823-8840 Website: www.wesleyanwoods.org
What Flag Teen Camp 2024
Theme: Thrive
Cost: $275
Week One:
Date: June 16-21
(7th-12th Grade: Joel Higginbotham as director)
Speaker: David Ash, YFC East Michigan Executive Director, 30 years of youth ministry experience.
Week Two:
Sunday, July 7-July 12 (FULL/Not Accepting Anymore Registrations)
(9th-12th Grade: Spencer Olson as director)
Speaker: Adam Kasper, Next Gen Pastor at The LocaL Church in Grand Rapids
What We Are About
At White Flag Teen Camp, our focus is on introducing campers to God's love, equipping them with His Truth, and empowering their faith to take action. Our daily lessons are delivered through personal reflection time, staff-led small group discussions, and engaging chapel times. Each week is packed with age-appropriate activities, ensuring that campers have a great time while making lifelong memories and growing in their faith. Our staff members are carefully selected, well-trained, and dedicated to making sure campers have a safe and enjoyable experience.
At our camp, teenagers can have a blast with both new and old friends. The chapels feature dynamic speakers, contemporary worship, and group discussions that challenge and encourage campers in their faith. They have a safe space to ask questions, engage in honest conversations, and discover God's Truths. With exciting team competitions and access to all the amenities of Wesleyan Woods, White Flag Teen Camp is an unforgettable experience.
Family Camp
"Hands down, Family Camp could be the best vacation experience you could have in 2024! Family Camp is a hidden treasure of Wesleyan Woods Camp that provides families with a fantastic opportunity to play, rest, learn, and rediscover the joy of creating lasting memories. More details will be provided soon!"
Wesleyan Woods Special Dates for 2024
For more information call: (989)823-8846 or Check us out on the web: www.wesleyanwoods.org
Memorial Weekend & Auction
May 22-27 (campsites, cottages & cabins $5 more per night)
Frontline Hero Weekend
May 31 - June 2
Strongs Family Weekend
June 14-16 ($50 Weekend Special)
White flag Teen Camp
June 16-21
July 7-12 (Full)
Courageous Kids Day Camp
June 24-27
4th of July
(campsites, cottages & cabins $5 more per night)
Wesleyan Woods Fireworks
July 3 at dusk (visitor fee $3 per person)
Family Camp
July 12-21 (campsites, cottages & cabins $5 more per night)
Western Weekend
August 16-18
Labor Day Weekend & Auction
August 28 - September 2 (campsites, cottages & cabins $5 more per night)
Hunters Retreat
September 20-22
Celebration of Ministry & Auction
September 27-29 ($50 Weekend Special)
Harvest Weekend
Weekend One: October 4-6
Weekend Two: October 11-13
YOU CAN HELP TRANSFORM LIVES!
At the heart of Wesleyan Woods is Discipleship.
We exist to share the love of Jesus with our guests.
We do this by focusing on building relationships,
strengthening families, and seeing lives transformed into the image of Christ.
Join us in celebrating over 50 years of legacy at Wesleyan Woods Camp! As a registered non-profit organization, we are a 501(c)3 entity, which means that your donations are fully tax deductible. Your generous contributions and regular gifts are essential in sustaining the day-to-day operations of the camp. We invite you to seek the Lord's guidance and consider giving as you are led.
If you are unable to contribute financially, we humbly ask that you remember Wesleyan Woods Camp in your prayers throughout the year. Your prayers are a source of strength and encouragement for our staff and the individuals we serve.
We welcome offerings and gifts through various channels. If you feel the Holy Spirit guiding you to support our ministry in any way, please do not hesitate to reach out to our Camp Director. Whether it's a stock gift, a bequeathal, a gift in-kind, a financial contribution, participation in a capital campaign, or a commitment to volunteerism, Wesleyan Woods Camp cherishes your faithfulness to the Lord and your partnership in advancing His work. Consider partnering with us and help see lives transformed in Christ.
Ways To Give:
Give Online by clicking on the Donate Button Below
Mail A Check
Mail to: Wesleyan Woods Camp, 4320 Caine Rd., Vassar, MI. 48768
Make Checks Payable to Wesleyan Woods
Camp Staff
Camp Director: Ben Freitas
Camp Program Director: Alex Fledderjohann
Office Manger: Norma Rickwalt
Meet Our Board of Directors
Randy Wellman / President
Dave Verbeek / Secretary
Shelly Hamilton / Treasurer
Dale Prior
Leonard Ruggles
Terry Blackmer
Delbert Gibson
Nate Kingsbury
Bradley Harris
Whitney Hardacre