By Jacob Spilker, Director of Development
We are thrilled to share the success of this year’s Heart of the Hills Benefit, a testament to the incredible generosity and community spirit of our supporters.
This event raised more than $20,000 ensuring that Sullivan Hills Camp can continue to provide life-impacting experiences for children and families from Western Nebraska.
Held at the picturesque Lazy S Ranch, just outside Sidney, Nebraska, on June 27, the 2024 Heart of the Hills Benefit was a unique and unforgettable evening of fellowship.
More than 115 guests gathered from across the state for an evening filled with cocktails, dinner, and heartfelt moments.
This year’s highlight was the Heart of the Hills Servant Award presentation to Dale Fornander, recognizing his unwavering commitment and service to Sullivan Hills Camp.
Dale’s contributions have been invaluable, helping the camp thrive and impact the lives of countless children.
Dale’s journey with Sullivan Hills Camp began when his daughters, Melissa and Allison, were a part of the Summer Ministry Team in the late 1990’s and early 2000’s.
From those moments Dale saw how Faith came Alive at camp.
“That is when it became clear that Sullivan Hills had a mystic about it for kids from this area,” Dale shared.
He began to serve on the Sullivan Hills Camp golf committee, then the Sullivan Hills Camp advisory board.
“It was my pleasure to know and visit with Lilian and Lester Sullivan, who donated the camp site and section of land that it sits on,” Dale continued. “They were a special couple with a unique vision for the land and campsite.”
Dale just wrapped up his second six-year term on the Nebraska Lutheran Outdoor Ministries Board of Directors.
While his time on the board may be up, he has a heart for service and looks forward to staying connected to NLOM and the community.
The funds raised at the benefit make it possible for every child to attend Sullivan Hills Camp at no cost to their family.
NLOM is immensely grateful for the support it continues to receive from families, foundations, congregations, and organizations throughout the Panhandle.
This generosity allows every child to have a life-impacting experience of camp. We couldn’t do it without you.
Mark your calendars for the 2025 Heart of the Hills Benefit, which will be held on Thursday, June 26, once again at Lazy S Ranch.
We look forward to another wonderful evening celebrating the power of community, faith, and generosity.
