Thank you for saying “yes” to what the Lord has for you at Fort this summer!
I’m so excited to see how He will work through you in the lives of the campers and the staff – you are already a huge blessing to us!
You likely have questions about your time at Fort and our hope is that this page answers many of them. You have also received an email with information that is specific to your speaking week. What a privilege to minister together during such a time as this!
Speaker Information Form
All speakers need to fill out the Speaker Information Form.
The purpose of this form is to:
- Gather the information we need to serve you (and your family if they join you at camp).
- Background check
- Statement of Faith and Values (1st time speakers only) – It is important our speakers are aware of and can materially support the doctrinal views of Fort Wilderness. If you have significant concerns or questions with a specific statement(s) we are pleased to discuss.
W9 Tax Form
This is the tax form that we need in order to give you your honorarium. Please send this back before you arrive so that our business office can write you a check.
Email to jordankoehn@fortwilderness.com or mail to Fort Wilderness Ministries Box 715 McNaughton WI, 54543
Speaker Details
When should you arrive?
Please arrive by 5:30 Saturday evening at the latest. Campers arrive Saturday starting at 1:30pm, and the first session isn’t until Saturday night. Let us know when you plan on arriving so we can be on the lookout for you.
When is the week finished?
You are free to depart anytime on Friday. The last time you will be speaking is on Thursday night, and the campers leave by 10 am on Friday.
How many times are you speaking?
In your email with specific camp details you will find a copy of the schedule for the week.
- You will be speaking every time it says “session”.
- The morning session is generally a little longer – 25 min
- The evening session is a little shorter -15 min
- After each of the morning sessions, there will be small group time for the counselors to continue to dig into the message with the campers.
- Every week is different, so the actual amount of time for speaking varies slightly. Please refer to the schedule for approximate times of sessions.
What are my responsibilities outside of sessions?
Small Group Questions: Please develop a short list of small group questions for after each morning session and email them to me at least one week before you arrive. Counselors will be provided with these questions and will lead small group discussion in their cabin. Please send them to Jordan at jordankoehn@fortwilderness.com.
Camper Follow Up Letter: After the week is over, we would ask that you write a letter that helps campers to remember and reflect on their time at camp. It can be as simple as a short letter or as detailed as providing some devotionals for the campers to walk through. We aim to send the letters out in September or October!
How should you dress for sessions?
Casual; keep in mind, even summer in the Northwoods often has cool weather, especially in the mornings and evenings. Sessions are held outdoors, unless there is a rain.
Pants and sweatshirts are a must. We play in the rain and jump in puddles, so rain gear is appropriate. I would encourage you to pack enough clothing for a week of activity. There are no laundry facilities at AO, and the nearest Laundromat is 16 miles away in Rhinelander.
How about getting paid?
Youth Camp speakers are given an honorarium (specific details have been emailed to you). All of your meals are provided for you and your family as well as lodging. The only money you’ll need is for program activities that may have a charge, and purchases at the Canteen. You will need to fill out a W9 form. This is the tax form that we need in order to give you your honorarium. Please send this back before June 1 so that our business office can write you a check. (Details at the top of this page)
Where are you staying?
You will be spending the week at Adventure Outpost in our Speaker Cabin. The accommodations include a set of bunk beds, chairs, and electricity. There is no bathroom in the cabin, but the cabin is located near the bathhouse that has flush toilets and showers. Bedding is provided. You will need to provide your own towels, however. If you are partial to your own pillows, you may want to bring them as well.
What about my family?
We love to have families come and join us for the week. Your family is welcome to join us for as much or as little as they would like or are able. I just need to know a week before hand the total number you will be bringing so that we can adequately accommodate everyone. Let me know if you’ll need a high chair.
A special note for those who are bringing small children…we only have youth large and larger lifejackets; if your child will need something smaller, you will need to bring one. In addition, please make us aware of any food allergies that your family members might have.
How is the food?
The food is great. People tend to put on weight at camp instead of losing it. We serve buffet style in simple kid friendly meals. Coffee and tea are also always available.
You may want to bring snacks for in between meals. In the past, we have had several severe peanut allergies, so please don’t bring nuts or peanut butter with you. Please let us know of any allergy or dietary needs that you have so we can accommodate as best we can.