Carrying the Camp Spirit Forward

For Ann (Martz) Barnum, Camp Ondessonk has always been more than a place; it’s been a source of laughter, friendship, and peace that has stayed with her since her camper days in the late 1970s. Her inspiration to attend Camp came from her cousins, Marcia (Cronin) Gehlhausen, Sister John Lalande, and Mike Cronin, who paved the way as early staff members. Following their lead, Ann first came to Camp as a camper and later served as a CIT and staff member from 1978 to 1981. Those summers helped shape her into the leader and friend she is today.

Some of Ann’s fondest memories come from her time with her favorite counselor, Claire Hatch. “It was non-stop laughter for a week with her as our unit leader,” Ann recalls. “I also learned from Karen Kuers how to be a great unit leader.” One of the moments that continues to inspire her connection to Camp was a Friday-night skit from Claire’s unit, featuring a song called ‘My Favorite Place on Earth.’ “It touched everyone that was there that night, and it captures exactly how I feel about Camp O,” she says.

Ann stays connected to Camp through a close-knit group of 1980s staff alumni who encourage one another to give back. That camaraderie inspired her to become a Campfire Circle member, making monthly gifts to support the place that continues to bring her peace. “The peace you get from being there is like no other,” she shares. “And what I love about being part of the Campfire Circle is knowing that together, we make a difference.”

Ann’s desire to make a difference for others extends beyond her love of Camp Ondessonk. She works as the Human Resources Manager for St. Clair County, Ill., and has served on the St. Clair County Mental Health Board for more than 20 years, currently holding the title of Senior Vice President, and is the President of the St. Clair County Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians.

To Ann, Camp Ondessonk’s mission is more important than ever. “In this day and age of social media, Camp gives kids the opportunity to put down the phone and talk to others for an entire week,” she says. “As a camper, you learn to manage your own day and problem solve, which builds self-confidence. As staff, you learn teamwork and leadership to make the Camp O experience the best it can be.”

Click here to learn more about joining the Campfire Circle.