Towering Pines Blog

We are posting Bill’s story on his behalf…Bill will be writing all about camp this summer:

The summer of 2013 will be my 8th summer at Towering Pines, and I’m thrilled to be heading back to the Northwoods to work with the Jordan Family again!

I was originally hired by Pa Jordan in 1985 as a cabin counselor & lifeguard. I’ve since worked for John and Jeff Jordan – during the infrequent summers my life has allowed — in archery, crafts, waterfront, Indian Lore, etc. Every time I drive through the pines and see the Lodge and the A Frame, I feel as if the best version of me comes to the surface and I’m eager to help others have the same great resident camp experiences that I’ve enjoyed at TP.

Because of the superb training and leadership I received from the Jordans, I’ve been able to enjoy camping as a fulltime, year-round career, including positions as a Camp Manager at a 4-H camp (in upstate New York, 2007-2010) and as a Camp Director at a Girl Scout Camp in Wichita, KS (2010-2012).

My non-camp experience with children & families includes roles as a Teaching Para for Special Needs students, an English Teacher in Asia (Japan, China, & Korea), Wrestling Coach, Afterschool Supervisor, Play Volunteer at a Korean Orphanage, and a Special Events Volunteer in Hiroshima, Japan.

Your first camp is like a first love, so I’m looking forward to being at Towering Pines again. This summer will be even better because I’ll be accompanied by my daughter Erina (19), who will serve as the Preschool Counselor at Camp Woodland (WD). Although this will be Erina’s first time at WD, she has several summers of camp & volunteer experience at the 4-H and Girl Scout camps, and will study Early Childhood Education at university this autumn. I’m excited to share TP / WD with her!

See you soon!

Bill Gonio