SHEP | Camp Big Cedars

Training Future Leaders

SHEP is a servant leadership program offered during Intermediate Camp. The purpose: to train and equip future leaders for youth camp ministry.

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I really wanted to work in camp, but I wasn’t old enough, and I didn’t have that much experience. I didn’t think it was a good idea for me to just hop in like, "let’s go!" I think SHEP has really taught me how to be a leader, how to be with the kids, and how to be a good staff member, so when I am able to work in camp, I already know all these things, and I can just pull it out from SHEP and be like, "I got this."

isaBELLA OWEN

"SHEP has really taught me how to be a leader"

SHEP helps give you that leadership you need when you’re ready to take that next step to be a cabin leader or CIT, or even give you skills to be a director! It’s a great experience. You get to meet all kinds of new people, and even though you do have to put in work, you have a blast.

CATON COOLEY

"You have a blast."

from the "sheppies"

Classroom study on the Biblical model of servant leadership

Hands-on camp improvement & service projects

Exclusive activities RESERVED just for the SHEP team

The SHEP Program Includes...

at Past Projects

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2022 SHEP Team

2021 SHEP Team

2023 SHEP Team

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2018 SHEP Team

2019 SHEP Team

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2018 shep service project

2018 was the first year for the SHEP program at Camp Big Cedars. In order to learn about service and working as a team, the Sheps demolished an old grill and converted the covered structure into a gazebo with two swings for future campers to enjoy.

2019 shep service project

For the second year of the SHEP program, the Sheps added two new benches to the Snack Shack area. By building these benches and painting the old one to match, the Sheps learned how to work as a team while creating a space that campers can enjoy for years to come.

2021 shep service projectS

The 2021 SHEP team tackled several projects! They worked in teams to build swings for campers of all ages, and they sanded and painted a boat-shaped play set donated to the campground. The "ark," as they decided to call it, looks great, and the younger campers love it!

2022 shep service projectS

The 2022 SHEP team took on two projects! They constructed new wooden screens for the bathhouse entries, and they also built a gaga ball pit, which was a huge hit with the campers. Of course, they got to try it out first!

2023 shep service projectS

The 2023 SHEP team battled unseasonably cold and rainy weather to build a stone fire pit. They learned the importance of having a firm foundation, and they worked together as a team with the help of a stone mason to select the right stones and place the mortar. They celebrated the completion of the project with a late night fire and s'mores. This fire pit is a beautiful addition to the camp grounds!

"sheppie?"

YOU'RE A GREAT FIT FOR SHEP IF...

You're a team player

Have what it takes to be a

You're between the ages of 13-17

You have a passion for youth camp ministry

If you're ready to invest in your spiritual development and your future in the camping ministry, sign up for SHEP! Space is limited, so apply early!

are you in?

Roll up your sleeves and get ready to serve.