Spotlight on Staff: Corey

Hi! My name is Corey (in the center with tie) – I’m 23 years old and I live In Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, Canada. I have been going to Timber Lake West since 2008 where I started out as a General Counselor. This past year I got the opportunity to be a Group Leader. During the 10 months away from Timber Lake West I spend most of my time working hard at a local restaurant.  Ever since I was young, I’ve loved working with kids.  When the opportunity came for me to work at Timber Lake West,  I jumped on it!

These past years spent at TLW have changed me for the better, in ways that no one else could. I’ve been moving up with a group of kids for four years now and I have literally watched them grow into young adults right before my own eyes.   A few years ago, I had the unfortunate experience of losing a close friend of mine, and as with many people who grieve, I struggled hard to find a purpose.   However, returning to West year after year led me to discover that MY purpose has been camp and truly appreciating the impact I have on fostering friendships between the campers, like the one that I had with my friend. Every moment at West is something special and something that I can cherish forever.  At the staff orientation, Jenn, Justin and Cassie tell you that the campers will change your lives forever, whether its with a note, email, or just a thank you for a great summer. And it’s true – there are notes I have on my dresser that campers have given me in past summers, and they serve as a reminder that my campers aren’t just my campers anymore, they are now part of my family.

When I go back to West every year, I get that warm feeling you get after being away from home for so long.  It’s not just a place I go to for the summer, it truly has become my second home and there is no other place I would rather be. I have had so many great memories there that I will never forget. Timber Lake West is an amazing place, and after being there for 4 years now, I can’t see my life without it. It’s a place where campers, counselors, parents, and visitors have a great time whether you’re there for one minute, one day, or an entire summer.  It is a place you fall in love with.

I look forward to returning to camp every minute of every day and I cannot wait to go back next summer. I have made so many memories and life long friends.