In We asked our staff what they love about working at Ferncliff, and we love what they had to say!
Joel Gill, Executive Director
I like that efficiency isn’t the only thing we value in our workplace. This is a place where you are encouraged to have courage – to be creative and just try things. It’s okay for things to be workshopped. We’re like a laboratory.
Emily Wernsdorfer, Program Director
I love being part of something bigger than myself. I have a lot of pride in what Ferncliff does and values, and I’m proud that I can be part of that. I like that I care so much about my job and that I’m invested in it.
Tyler Simpson, Assistant Program Director
I think that the most important thing that a person can do is to ensure the success of the next generation. Whatever we can do to make people’s lives better when we’re gone is a worthwhile pursuit, and I think that’s what we have the opportunity to do here.
Hannah Lahodny, Marketing and Hospitality Coordinator
I really enjoy the workplace culture, which fosters collaboration and camaraderie. I like all my coworkers, and the office never feels stiff or uncomfortable. There’s always something fun going on! I also like that I can walk out of the office and be inspired and refreshed by the beauty of nature.
Kathi Payne, Office Administrator
I’ve always thought of Ferncliff as sacred ground. Every time you come here, it feels like you’re meant to be here. I was led here 17 years ago, and I have never had any doubt that I was meant to be here.
Rachel Parker, Nature Preschool Director
I love working with our kids because it’s like I can see what our future will be, and know it’s in good hands.
David Gill, Director of Outreach and Mission Engagement
I like the variety. Every day is different. There’s never a dull moment in terms of what you could end up doing. From day to day you might find me unloading a church van full of disaster kits, touring visitors, brushing donkeys, harvesting vegetables, mowing on a tractor, helping at a 5K race, feeding pigs, unloading 128 Tempur-pedic mattresses, picking up a load of donations from Home Depot, getting tutored by younger staff members about how to use Spotify… The variety is stimulating.
Pam Carpenter, Head of Housekeeping
There’s so much I love about Ferncliff, more than I can say. I love seeing the change it makes in kids’ lives. I grew up going to camp so I know how important the experience is. If this weren’t the best place to work, I wouldn’t have stayed here for 21 years.