"From Helped to Helping"

As a college senior who had recently accepted the position of Program Director at her home camp, Alta Mons (VA), Meredith Petty first heard of UMCRM from her mentor, Barry LeNoir. Barry urged her to commit to regular professional development as a part of the vocation of camp and retreat ministry, and suggested that she attend the National Camp and Retreat Leaders Gathering that year. Attending meant skipping class and required the help of a Legacy of Leadership scholarship, but Meredith knew she needed and wanted to be a part of the Gathering and looked forward to the adventure with nervous excitement. Meredith recalls, “It rocked my world.” At that 2015 Gathering in Georgia, Meredith met so many cool people who would become mentors and role models, who understood and affirmed her calling. Looking around at the hundreds of fellow United Methodist camp leaders present, she was blown away to realize that camp was so much more than her context in southwestern Virginia – it was an industry and profession. 

Having attended an insightful conference workshop with Jack Shitama, when Meredith learned he’d be leading an Intentional Leadership Group (ILG), she signed up without hesitation. At the 2023 National Gathering, she was overjoyed to meet that virtual group in person. This year she’s participating in two more awesome ILGs and is grateful for these opportunities to learn and connect with peers who understand the work she does. She has also found support from UMCRM colleagues who have generously responded to questions and emails, shared their expertise, reached out to support her through job transitions, and more. She has been amazed that UMCRM peers who she hasn’t even met are still willing to help. She is grateful for all those who shared their policies and ideas, workshops, friendship, and supported the scholarship fund. Being a recipient has enriched her beyond measure, both professionally and personally. 

Another great blessing of the UMCRM community has been the invitation to be not just a participant, but a leader – to not only receive but to give as well. As Meredith has grown as a ministry professional, she has been excited to give back to the Association. Once, when she inquired whether there was a listing of the UMCRM sites hosting clergy retreats, the answer was “not yet, but would you like to create one?” The UMCRM Association’s empowerment of volunteers has a way of helping good ideas take flight. Meredith put together the first survey that grew into the nationally-published online UMCRM Clergy Retreat Guide and Directory. Next, she’s hoping to lead a future ILG. She’s clear that her connections through UMCRM have been priceless in her own growth as a camp professional, and she’s ready to help other leaders connect, grow, and be a part of the work God is doing through this Association.