From Your 2021 Head Counselor, Grace Marks
Greetings Camp Hardtner!
I am so thrilled to say that I will be serving as your 2021 Head Counselor!
I am from Opelousas and am a senior at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. I am set to graduate in December of 2021 with a degree in Performing Arts Theatre. As of right now I do not have any definitive plans post-graduation, but I have always had an interest in performance art and working with children, so I hope to incorporate the two together as I pursue opportunities in my career. That is also one big reason why I keep coming back to work at Camp Hardtner!
Like so many others I started at Camp Hardtner very young and have never missed a summer since I always looked up to the counselors and wanted to one day be in their shoes. At first it was because I thought it was the coolest job on the planet (which it is!), but as I continued growing and watching my counselors, I was inspired and developed new motivations for working at camp.
When I was first able to apply for Permanent Staff in 2018 I had come to understand that being on the staff was way more than just being “cool.” For me it was about taking that environment and experience that I had as a camper and creating something more with it. To deepen and expand those experiences and make each summer better in ways that are specific to each camper.
I see the counselors as role models and some of the people who shaped the person I am today. I wanted–and continue to want–to be that for campers after me.
Through my two summers working at camp and, notably the 2020 COVID summer, I have come to wholeheartedly believe that Camp Hardtner is essential for campers. It is such a great place for kids to just be kids. This is particularly important amidst a world of technology, societal expectations, and now a global pandemic that requires distance from others. They can truly let themselves be who they are and explore who they want to be–all while surrounded by people and peers who love and care for them, in an environment where they can play, worship, learn, and talk about God. It truly is a special place.
This summer we are working hard to make camp unforgettable, deeply meaningful, and safe during the pandemic. I cannot wait to see what this summer holds!
I highly recommend that you register your camper ASAP, so they may be a part of a truly incredible summer.
With all the Peace, Love, and Milk and Cookies,
Grace Marks
2021 Head Counselor
Apply for the Permanent Staff to work with Grace and create an amazing summer for our campers!
