A Conversation with Todd Ballard: Leading Timber-lee into a Bright Future
Todd Ballard, a dedicated preacher's kid, has spent 28 years serving as a pastor and worship leader. His journey to Timber-lee began about a year and a half ago when his brother-in-law, Greg Kunes, invited him to visit the camp. After a heartfelt visit and much prayer, they felt called to prevent the camp from closing. Greg purchased Timber-lee, and Todd stepped in as Executive Director, ensuring the camp's mission to glorify God by guiding kids to Jesus continues.
Timber-lee has always been a place dedicated to bringing glory to God. The mission is to provide a space for kids to learn about Jesus and dedicate their lives to Him. Over the next year, Todd’s top priority is to fix the business model to ensure Timber-lee's financial sustainability. Despite the challenges of maintaining 600 acres and over 90 buildings, numbers are trending upward thanks to hard work and strategic changes. Top goals in the coming year include eliminating financial roadblocks so the ministry can truly thrive and continue to grow.
Reflecting on his time at Timber-lee, Todd shares a favorite memory. One standout moment was during WinterXtreme, where the camp was fully booked, and the chapel was packed with kids experiencing profound encounters with God. A small handful of girls were joyfully crying because God had touched their hearts. Thinking of his own kids (15 and 16), Todd was intensely reminded of the transformative power of a personal relationship with God. These chapel experiences are at the heart of what makes Timber-lee special.
Looking ahead, Todd envisions a flourishing camp with every camper having the best possible experience. This fall, Timber-lee is breaking ground on a new climbing tower, updating the exciting activities available. The goal is for campers to come for the fun but leave with life-changing chapel experiences. In the next 3-5 years, we hope to see Timber-lee packed with campers, with all deferred maintenance addressed and resources stewarded as God would want. We aim to ignite a passion for Christ in young people, empowering them to be the light in their communities.
To the Timber-lee community and beyond, Todd reassures that the camp is in good hands. Our board of directors and staff are committed to furthering God's kingdom by helping young people encounter Christ. Despite past turmoil and changes, Todd is confident that Timber-lee is on the right path because God is in full control.
he Timber-lee team believes prayer is the most powerful tool available and invites you to join us in praying for God's guidance as we steward this ministry and help us continue to provide a place where kids can experience the love of Christ and grow in their faith.
If you want to have a fun afternoon and support Timber-lee, take part in our golf outing!
