Heartlight residential staff
|
|
Residential Staff  Ben Weinert, Residential Director/ Program, came to work with Heartlight Ministries in September of 2003. He attended George Fox University in Newberg, Oregon and earned a degree in Christian Ministries and Theatre. While attending college, Ben worked at a camp in Colorado for three summers and was a member of both the program and a counseling staff. In addition to this experience with young people, he volunteered at several churches helping out with the youth group programs, and spent 2 years as a House Staff and House Director here at Heartlight, before moving into the Assistant Program Director role. Ben’s creativity and energy are evident to all who meet him and are vital to Heartlight’s staff.
|
 Introducing the residential staff of the Heartlight residential program and school for teens.     Helps from Heartlight...
A kit filled with select resources and tools from Mark Gregston, rushed to your home. Click the link to see what is in the box.
Learn how to handle difficult teens, develop effective boundaries, rules and consequences, and get your home under control. Taught by Mark Gregston on video (DVD). For individual home use or for groups. |
Meredith Grausam, Residential Director, arrived at Heartlight in June of 2007 and has brought energy and reliability to the Heartlight family. Mere began living “in house” at New Lodge and Vickies before moving into a supervisor role in January of 2009. She grew up in Williamsport, PA where she discovered her love for an active life that involves playing as well as coaching basketball, fishing, traveling (most notably in Russia & the Czech Republic) and spending time with others allowing her to build meaningful relationships. Meredith's intuitiveness and creativity allow her to challenge others to unleash their true aspirations as she digs past the exterior and into the hearts of the people around her. Earning a bachelor's degree in Psychology, she is open to new ideas and her curiosity leads her to grow in relationships. 
Meg Jasper, Residential Director. Meg has an extensive background in camp ministry having served for 10 years as a counselor, lifeguard, and office assistant. Originally from “everywhere,” she’s lived in three countries and enjoys spending time in the outdoors (kayaking/wakeboarding). Meg relates easily to residents as a result of her various experiences. She says, “I just love getting to know them individually, and hopefully encouraging them in the decisions they will make in life.”
Corry Boatwright, Residential Director. Corry, aka Boatie, comes to Heartlight after spending 4 years in a similar role in the Dominican Republic, Canada, and Indiana. He is determined to use the gifts God has given him to bless others and his “slow to anger”, patient personality is a tremendous blessing for those that he encounters. After growing up on a farm and learning to handle horses, Corry helps out with the horses here on campus and he also enjoys fishing, weightlifting and sports activities here at Heartlight. 
Blair Hawley, New Lodge House Director. Coming to Heartlight from Branson, Missouri, Blair has spent the past 10 years working with Kanakuk Kamps in various leadership positions. After obtaining an Art Degree from Carson Newman College in Tennessee, Blair attended the Kanakuk Institute where she did graduate studies in Youth and Family Ministry. She continues to enjoy drawing and painting in her free time along with various outdoor (camping, rock climbing, Frisbee) and musical (playing guitar, singing) hobbies. Her desire at Heartlight is “to be an example of Christ to the next generation by teaching them and letting them know they are loved”. 
Peter Magner, Main House Director. Hailing from River Falls, Wisconsin, Peter got his associates degree from Eureka College in Illinois and is working toward his Bachelor’s from the University of Wisconsin as an International Studies major. Peter’s energy and outgoing personality help him accomplish his goals at Heartlight: to help teenagers develop life skills and healthy coping mechanisms. He is able to approach Heartlight residents from a position of understanding and empathy because of his personal experiences. Peter loves outdoor sports (archery, kayaking, hiking) and is the first one to jump in whenever there’s a competition.
Mark Kozitka, East House Director. Hailing from the North Country (Detroit Lakes, MN), Mark came to Heartlight after spending time studying at Oxford University in England and the University of St. Andrews in Scotland where he received a Masters of Letters. A self-proclaimed “lover of pancakes and stories that is not afraid to wear a tuxedo to McDonalds”, Mark has a caring heart that longs to see kids through good times and bad. He spends his spare time reading, writing, and exploring the outdoors. 
Leslie Cole, Vicki's House Director. Although Leslie is originally from Peachtree, GA she obtained her Early Childhood Education certification from Chippewa Valley Technical College in Eau Claire, WI. Her knowledge and experience has grown due to recent successful opportunities such as working with inner city teenagers at the Los Angeles Dream Center and taking care of 4 children as a full time nanny for 2 ½ years. After learning about Heartlight’s mission on our website, Leslie knew this would be a great place for God to allow her to use her passion for helping others realize their potential and purpose. Her love for life is evident everyday as she continues to be excited about where the new adventures will lead.
Courtney Craft, South House Director, With a friendly smile and the determination to help out in any way she can, Courtney has been a welcome addition to the Heartlight residential staff. Originally from Bay City, TX, Courtney completed her undergrad at Stephen F. Austin State University with a degree in Marketing and then worked at a summer camp and in the school system for several years. Her humor and energy serve her well in relating to kids on their level while giving them a good example to follow. 
Rachael Mulder, Old Lodge House Director. Rachael joined our team here at Heartlight in September of 2008. While attending the University of Wesleyan in Manon, IN she worked towards her degree in Adolescent Ministries and Intercultural Studies. During the summer months she would return home to the state of Michigan where she worked at Springhill summer camp as an aquatic coordinator. Rachael’s servant like heart has brought her to working with teens and young children through after school programs, serving on several mission trips, and interning at a residential and family service program. Her genuine, down to earth personality has allowed her to both connect and challenge the young girls in seeing their potential while pointing them in the direction of God. During her free time, Rachael loves playing the drums and piano as well as enjoying a good cup of coffee with friends.
Aaron Deimund, Residential Staff. Aaron found out about Heartlight from a former staff member he grew up with. While growing up in Cimarron, KS he discovered his love for being outdoors and staying active, especially playing sports. Aaron attended Garden City Community College where he studied Criminal Justice. He has worked with kids for the last 4 years, including a children’s camp and volunteering at his local church. God has blessed him with a compassion heart and a love for seeing others walk the right path. His ability to relax, play, and simply have fun make him a great fit at the East House. 
Katherine Scofield, Residential Staff. A self-proclaimed passionate fan of the Atlanta Braves, Jacksonville Jaguars, Rascall Flatts, Jason Mraz, Team USA in any Olympic sport, and Disney World, Katherine “Kat” Scofield adds a child-like enthusiasm for life to the Heartlight staff. Her degree in Hospitality Management and Legal Studies from the University of Central Florida will come in handy for her work with Heartlight residents 
Annie Bush, Residential Staff. Hailing from Sandusky, MI, Annie spent the past 10 years working on her family’s cash crop farm and was also very involved in Michigan Youth Camp. Annie says, “I feel like God has put in my heart a love for the hurting. I want to be a vessel of God’s love.” An outdoor enthusiast, Annie enjoys running, snowboarding, wakeboarding and skiing. She is also great with horses and offers a wealth of experience to the residents as they interact with the horses on property. 
Nef Aguilar, Residential Staff. Neftali, aka Nef, joined the Heartlight staff from Yuma, AZ, where he worked at a crises center hotline and counseled people going through difficult situations. A hard working, caring person, Nef enjoys creating art whether he’s drawing, painting, or playing music. He hopes to bring a new perspective to teens at Heartlight and help them make the most of their teen years. 
Ruth Pocock, Residential Staff. Ruth joins the Heartlight staff after graduating from Eastern University in Pennsylvania where she majored in Youth Ministry. Originally from Houghton, NY, Ruth has been a camp counselor at several camps and also served as an RA for two years during her college years. Ruth says, “I have a heart for teenagers, I want to pour out love and support while challenging them to make positive changes in their lives.” Ruth enjoys outdoor sports like hiking, backpacking and canoeing along with sports and singing and she brings an easy going, patient and willing personality to the staff.
Karissa Roy, Residential Staff. After spending time in Costa Rica as a special education teacher and as a student at Torchbearers, Karissa come to Heartlight after hearing about it from current staff member Shannon Wine. Originally from Garden Ridge, TX, and a graduate of Stephen F. Austin University, she brings a big heart for anyone struggling to Heartlight’s staff. She says, “I have always wanted to help out those needing it, whether in special education, a regular classroom, or in life’s environment”. Besides enjoying running, reading, playing guitar and scrapbooking, Karissa brings a listening ear and timely encouragement to the Heartlight staff. 
Luke Ijams, Residential Staff. Luke heard about Heartlight from his friend and current Heartlight employee, Sam Sheeley, and joins the residential staff after a career in banking. Luke enjoys playing and recording music, fishing, camping, golfing and video games. His desire to work with people stems from experiences as a camp counselor and involvement with the Navajo Christian Foundation. 
Lucas Haley, Residential Staff. Prior to serving at Heartlight, Lucas worked as an EMT and also spent several years as the associate director for an After School Day Camp. He also spent several summers serving as a counselor at a summer camp called Sky Ranch with campuses in Texas and in Kenya, East Africa. Hailing from Prairieville, LA, he graduated from LSU with a degree in Biochemistry with hopes of pursuing a career in medicine in the future. Lucas enjoys a variety of hobbies such as music, reading, photography, racquetball, wood-working and traveling. 
Hopie Feek, Residential Staff. Originally from the Nashville area, Hopie is an avid dancer and photographer that loves movies and painting. Hopie served as a children’s counselor on a Wyoming dude ranch before coming to Heartlight. She knew she wanted to work with troubled teens because she “loves people and wants to help those that need someone to care for them”. Hopie brings a free-spirited, fun-loving, outgoing personality to the Heartlight staff.
Allison Conway, Residential Staff. Hailing from Albuquerque, NM, Allison obtained her B.S. in Psychology from the University of New Mexico. She was a youth leader at her home church and also spent 3 years as a Crisis Hotline volunteer. She says, “God has given me a passion for teenagers and a desire to help and encourage them during this crazy time in life!” A former personal trainer, Allison enjoyed working out, spending time with friends and family, and participating in water sports.
Jon DePue, Residential Staff. Jon first heard about Heartlight from his friends Adam and Ashley McMahen (current Heartlight counselor). He’s lived in Longview and attended LeTourneau University where he is close to completing a degree in Aeronautical Science. As a teenager, Jon was deeply impacted by the investment of adults in his life and he desires to offer the same care for teens here at Heartlight. He brings compassion and steadfastness to the staff and enjoys an eclectic mix of playing music, sports and exploring the outdoors.
Andy Phillips, Residential Staff. Andy first learned about Heartlight from his friend Corry Boatwright, a current residential director on staff. As a former football/basketball/baseball coach, Andy knows how to shape a group of kids to achieve a team goal! He graduated in 2005 from Taylor University in Upland, IN, with a degree in Business Management and has worked for the past few years a commercial/residential mortgage broker. His outgoing personality and passion for people will allow Andy to connect well with staff and residents at Heartlight.
Lisa Loniewsky, Residential Staff. After attending Northlake Community College in Irving, TX, Lisa spent time working in the medical field and as a barista at Starbucks. For the past 10 years Lisa has served as a volunteer with her church youth group and got to experience a wide array of ministry opportunities. As a lover of the New York Giants and drinking coffee, Lisa connects well with people when she can share quality time with them. On working with kids, she says, “I love pouring into them and just listening to their stories as well as helping them grow together through life.”
Krystle Renfrow, Residential Staff. Krystle is from just down the road in Marshall, TX, where she completed her undergraduate work at East Texas Baptist Univeristy. She spent four summers working with kids at Pineywoods Baptist Encampment and enjoys the passion that kids bring to life. Her hobbies include being outdoors and drinking milk…although she claims that these do not occur at the same time. Krystle brings a relational heart and a laid back, easy going attitude to the staff.
Katie Rider, Residential Staff. Having just completed a degree in Social Work from Indiana Wesleyan University, Katie joins the team from Mansfield, OH. Along with an energetic and positive outlook, Katie says, “I love working with kids because they are great to connect and talk with!” She has a wide variety of ministry experience including time spent working at an inner city school in Detroit, a camp for foster kids, and a youth detention center. She lists basketball, volleyball, and softball among her favorite hobbies in addition to going on outdoor adventures. 
Jessica Creeden, Residential Staff. An avowed Eagles fan from Lancaster, PA, Jess will be in the minority when the Cowboys play their NFC East rivals this fall! Before coming to Heartlight, she attended Kent State University and Lancaster Bible College and studied Phys Ed/Health and Bible Ministry. This well rounded educational experience combined with a variety of roles (camp counselor, youth group leader, coach) gives her a great foundation from which to minister effectively to teenagers at Heartlight. Jess brings “a huge desire to learn more about God, others, and how to help others” and a spirit of compassion to the Heartlight staff. 
Mitch Jones, Residential Staff. After spending the last 6 years in Waconia, MN, Mitch has returned to his southern roots as a graduate of Crown College. He has extensive experience in working with kids as a coach, summer camp counselor, group home worker, and mentor. On working with teens, Mitch says, “They are my favorite group of people to work with…I have a passion to show them God’s grace”. Mitch is an avid sportsman and enjoys fishing and cooking as well. 
