In October I was at Camp Cocohatchee releasing some squirrels for the Von Arx Wildlife Hospital at the Conservancy of SW Florida (I volunteer there). The north Naples camp is owned and operated by Future Citizens, Inc. a 501c non-profit. The camp provides an opportunity for the youth of Collier County and surrounding areas to enjoy a unique outdoor experience in a natural Florida landscape. The camp is used by Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and church youth groups. The fellow I spoke with that day is Dan Byers. He's the president of the non-profit but also maintains the property. Dan was telling me that many Eagle Scout projects have been done to improve the camp and that there is another project that needed to be done. There is a bunk house that they were unable to use because the ramp accessing the building was dilapidated and needed repair. At that moment I thought what a great opportunity that would be forthe family of Faith to help out and begin our stewardship work in the community. Dan was overjoyed! 

So back to Faith and who else would you ask to take on this project but Roger Christie, woodworker extraordinaire. What a kind man Roger was for taking this on! So off we went, Donna Jean Christie, Tom Macintosh and myself. Two days of very strenuous work but it turned out beautiful. They are very grateful that the bunk house can once again be used. We're on their facebook page, check it out.

That project was very successful, it has me hopeful that together we can accomplish much for our community. I have ideas for future projects but I would love to hear from you. When I became Director of Stewardship this is exactly what I was hoping to be doing. In the coming weeks there will be a questionnaire in the Sunday bulletin. Please take the time to fill this out so I have an idea of all the talents we have in our congregation. There are many ways to serve. There will be opportunities for small projects as well as some with more of a commitment at the Church. Please consider your role as a steward of this beautiful world God gave us.

God bless! Elaine Maclntosh