Camp: A Cure for Isolation
Jack, Violet, and Hazel Sever with their mom, Jody Eckloff
Jody Eckloff grew up on a farm in rural Upper Michigan, an upbringing that can be isolating. When she came to Fortune Lake as a child, it was an opportunity to meet new people from different places. She enjoyed canoeing, swimming, and singing songs around the cross. She appreciated the relationships that were built, often becoming penpals with a new friend from camp, exchanging letters long after camp had ended. Through this, her perspective broadened as her faith grew.
Fast forward a few decades, and Jody is a single mom raising three beautiful children in the Copper Country. As her children – Jack, Violet, and Hazel – have grown, it has become increasingly important to Jody to have them participate in the ministry of Fortune Lake. Although they don’t face the social isolation like she did as a child, during recent years, COVID-19 had limited opportunities for authentic interactions with peers.
When Jody dropped her son Jack off at High School Week, she couldn’t help but wonder if it would be for the last time, if perhaps he had outgrown camp. She couldn’t have been more wrong! Despite spraining his ankle early in the week, Jack made positive, lifelong memories. At closing chapel on Friday morning, Jody was greeted by an enthusiastic 15-year old who described an incredible week. Especially notable were the relationships formed with both campers and staff. Jack exchanged digital contact information – the modern version of penpals – as he had forged real friendships. He has plans to return next summer and to apply for the Leaders in Training program.
The middle sibling, Violet, who started the week feeling anxious, had a redemptive experience. Violet battled homesickness for the first few days, but Jody knew that her daughter was in good hands with the staff at Fortune Lake. She encouraged her: “We committed to this, and girl, you’re gonna love it!” Violet’s big moment came midweek. She was at the beach and on a whim, felt brave enough to attempt the swim test. Having struggled with it in the past, this was no small feat. Because the time was ripe, she jumped in the lake in her shorts and t-shirt and passed with flying colors! As the lifeguards cheered, Violet’s pride was tangible! She conquered her homesickness too and was seen smiling and participating in all that camp had to offer.
Hazel, the youngest child, had an all-around great week as a Vagabond camper. Having met the Cabin Leaders Olivia and Emma during Day Camp at Bethany, Mohawk, earlier in the summer, she was thrilled to reconnect with them. She loved sleeping in a bunk bed in a treehouse and jumping on the water trampoline.
Jody appreciates the opportunity to experience God through outdoor ministry at Fortune Lake, and she is especially grateful to share that tradition with her growing children. In addition to sending all three to camp, Jody also volunteered at her congregation’s Day Camp. Although she didn’t serve on staff herself, she believes one is never too old for camp. She finds joy in the countless stories shared by her children and the moments of connection with the kids in the local community through Day Camp. Jody has found that camp is a great cure for the feelings of isolation that often plague us, and she looks forward to seeing how these connections grow throughout the years.
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