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Camping names new Exec Director

Posted on by DeMoss
Michigan's new Executive Director of Camping
The Rev. David Berkey will serve as the new Executive Director of Michigan Area United Methodist Camping starting October 18, 2020. Berkey served most recently as Director of Camp, Retreat, and Discipleship Ministries for the California-Pacific (Cal-Pac) Conference of the UMC. ~ photo courtesy Michigan Area UM Camping

Starting October 18, 2020, Michigan Area United Methodist Camping will have a new leader. Meet the Rev. David Berkey, the state’s new Executive Director, moving east from the Cal-Pac Conference

Bio of new Camp Director

Michigan Area United Methodist Camping is excited to introduce the Rev. David Berkey as its new Executive Director. David will lead the multi-site camping ministry in Michigan with his extensive leadership experience – most recently as Director of Camp, Retreat, and Discipleship Ministries for the California-Pacific (Cal-Pac) Conference of the United Methodist Church (UMC). His start date is October 18.

“David brings a wealth of experience in the development and operation of camp and retreat programs and sites, and we are fortunate to have him join us at this critical time for Michigan Area United Methodist camps,” said Stuart Smith, Board President.

Before his eight years at Cal-Pac, Berkey was Executive Director for two United Methodist conference camping ministries: Florida (6 years) and Eastern Pennsylvania (10 years).

David holds a Master of Divinity degree from Union Theological Seminary (New York) and United Methodist Certification in Camp and Retreat Ministry. He is also a former national board member and current accreditation visitor for the American Camp Association.

David said, “I am so grateful for the opportunity to serve the camp and retreat ministry among the United Methodists of Michigan at such a time as this. It feels like a homecoming for me, having been raised in the Cleveland area and spending summer vacations at Michigan lakes and forests. With family in the area, it will truly be a blessing!”

Michigan Area United Methodist Camping operates Lake Huron Retreat Center, Lake Michigan Camp & Retreat, Lakeview Family Campground, and Wesley Woods Camp & Retreat Center. The nonprofit board recently approved a strategic plan to unify youth and family summer camp programming, grow multigenerational camp opportunities, partner with local churches for community-based day camps, and reinvest in facilities.

“The board has made great strides in reshaping the organization over the past year, and David’s strong leadership will guide us to becoming a self-sustaining, more-viable camping ministry,” Stuart said.

Stuart added, “The board thanks Interim Executive Director Joel Wortley for stepping in and leading operations in recent months. His tireless efforts and devotion to the ministry are greatly appreciated.”

While David concludes his service out west and relocates to Michigan, staff members work on the Summer 2021 programming calendar and plan to announce it in October. Learn more about Michigan Area United Methodist Camping online at www.umcamping.org.

“Being outdoors in God’s creation and community together is needed now more than ever,” Berkey said. “With a new strategic plan and an energized board and staff, we are ready to meet this challenge and provide a sustainable future that continues to create transformative camp and retreat experiences that develop disciples of Jesus Christ.”

Last Updated on December 8, 2023

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The Michigan Conference