In Cameron Highsmith was a kind, shy kid. He enjoyed baseball, reading, and hanging out with his friends. Summers at Ferncliff were a mainstay of his childhood, providing him with a nurturing environment that helped shape his character. During his high school years Cameron’s connection with Ferncliff deepened, thanks to the transformative ‘Anytown’ program hosted here.
“I grew up going to Ferncliff but the most impactful experience for me was attending the Anytown program there between my 10th and 11th grade years.”
The Anytown program, designed to instill anti-racist values and promote diversity, had a significant effect on Cameron. Attending were campers from all sorts of denominations, different faiths and different cultures, those from rural towns and those from the inner city. The program was intentionally diverse to foster meaningful conversations and designed to recognize and break down barriers of prejudice.
“Ferncliff as a Christian organization hosted this program and I adored that.”
This was an eye opening experience for Cameron and led to him becoming a Ferncliff camp counselor. Being a counselor enriched him further by exposing him to a melting pot of cultures, as he formed lasting relationships with fellow international staff members from Poland, Russia, and Australia.
During his summers on staff, Ferncliff continued to be a place of growth for Cameron, especially when he became involved in camps for children who had experienced trauma of a school shooting. At a young age, he found immense meaning in helping others navigate through their pain. This spirit of empathy and service continued to guide him beyond high school.
“As a young person myself then it was amazing to be involved in camps in service to others. It helped me learn valuable leadership skills and how to listen and be empathetic.”
Following his stint as a Peace Corps volunteer in Ukraine, like many young adults, Cameron faced a period of uncertainty about his future. A friend from his Ferncliff days suggested he consider seminary and he realized that ministry was a calling he couldn’t escape. This led to him serving eight years as a medical chaplain in diverse settings—from hospitals to hospice care—and prepared him for the unique role he holds today as an industrial chaplain at Tyson Foods.
In his current role, Cameron embodies the principles instilled in him at Ferncliff: being non-judgmental, inclusive, and caring. He serves as a bridge between workers and the resources they need, often supporting them in times of crisis. His commitment to creating a workplace that is not just productive but also conducive to the health and happiness of his co-workers speaks volumes about the values he embodies, that were nurtured at Ferncliff.
“Really what I learned at Ferncliff that I use today is how to relate to people from various backgrounds, and more importantly, to care about them. It is encouraging for me to see so many people going to Ferncliff to receive the same lessons of empathy and caring for others that was instilled in me.”
Cameron’s story is a testament to the profound impact of Ferncliff’s programs. Your support has not only shaped his life, but has created a ripple effect, influencing the lives of countless others. Cameron’s nieces and nephews now come to Ferncliff and take part in the same transformative experiences, carrying forward the legacy of empathy and care.
“Ferncliff is a central part of my life and an important place for me and I’ve always loved it. I always feel something special each time I am there.”
Your continued generosity allows Ferncliff to be a place of positive change in the lives of individuals like Cameron. Your support empowers programs that instill values of inclusivity, self-discovery, and empathy—that extends far beyond the camp’s grounds.