A reflection by Katelyn Hoffman, serving at Ferncliff Camp and Conference Center, Brethren Volunteer Service (BVS) Unit #335
The last 9 months volunteering through the Brethren Volunteer Service program have been the most formative months of my life so far. Having just graduated from high school, leaving my home country of Germany to serve at Ferncliff Camp and Conference Center was the best decision I could have made for myself. In this time, I have already grown and learned so much in many ways.
One of the most important ways BVS has shaped my future is by helping me find my passion. A topic we discussed during orientation that really stuck with me was the idea of “finding your calling.” Throughout high school, I often felt overwhelmed and nervous about not knowing exactly what I wanted to do with my life. However, working at Ferncliff’s Nature Preschool has given me a sense of clarity and direction.
Working with kids has always been an interest of mine, and because I love the outdoors, Ferncliff’s nature preschool program was a perfect match. In my first few weeks at the camp, I had the opportunity to develop a variety of skills related to early childhood education, as well as gain experience teaching and guiding children in an outdoor setting.
This experience has helped me grow not only in my skills, but also personally. I’ve learned so much about myself and what it means to live in a community. Although the principles of living simply were an adjustment at first, it has deepened my appreciation and gratitude for everything I have. I am more aware and mindful of how rich I really am in life. This principle will shape the way I live for the rest of my life, and I am very glad to have this experience now.
Serving through BVS at Ferncliff has not only strengthened my love for working with children, but it has also helped me realize that this is the career path I want to pursue. I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to grow within such a supportive community, and for the chance to discover both my strengths and my passion.
Katelyn is from Germany, but she has family ties to the Church of the Brethren in the US. Her father (from Germany) and her mother (a member of the Church of the Brethren) met while serving for a year of BVS in San Antonio, Tx. Her brother, Benjamin, also served at Ferncliff Camp and Conference Center in BVS Unit #331. Katelyn now carries on the family legacy of living a life of service.
This reflection was originally featured in the summer issue of The Volunteer, a publication by Brethren Volunteer Service. Learn more about Brethren Volunteer Service at www.brethren.org/bvs or support this Core Ministry of the Church of the Brethren at www.brethren.org/giveBVS.