Kelsey Grafenberg

Kelsey grew up in LeClaire, Iowa and grew up attending Camp Bear Creek. She first came to You & Me Camp with her mom, and fell in love with the camp. She continued attending all through her childhood, eventually completing LIT camp before returning as a volunteer and then working on summer staff. Now, her kids attend camp!

Kelsey attended the University of Northern Iowa where she earned an Elementary Education degree with a K-8 Reading Endorsement. She then earned her master’s in K-12 Special Education from Morningside University. Kelsey and her husband, Jake, live in Bettendorf and have four girls: Hallie, Tessa, Maura, and Lottie. Kelsey works for the Mississippi Bend Area Education Agency as the lead teacher for the Scott County Youth Justice Rehabilitation Center in Davenport, Iowa. She teaches youth aged 11-17 and makes sure all of their educational needs and services are being met while they are incarcerated. She loves to spend time with her family, workout, and travel.

Kelsey’s decision to join the board was an easy one. She says, “Camp is my favorite place on earth! I love getting the opportunity to learn more about camp and to help continue growing kids in their faith.” She can empathize with parents and kids who might be uncertain about camp. She explains that she was always the nervous and homesick kid coming to camp and even crying a bit when her parents dropped her off. Looking back, though, she can see how positive and formative her camp experiences were. She says, “I am so grateful that my parents sent me despite my tears. Once I got over the homesickness, I truly loved every minute. It helped shape who I am today and it’s where I found my love for Jesus.”

Part of what excites Kelsey about the Camp Bear Creek ministry is the chance to ensure that the same quality experiences she had as a child will be continued for the next generation. “I love that Camp Bear Creek gives kids a place to have fun, build friendships, grow in confidence, and most importantly, grow in their faith. I know firsthand how much camp can impact a child’s life, and I’m excited to help make sure other kids have that same opportunity. It is especially exciting for me to now watch my own kids experience a place that had such a big impact on me.”

Kelsey’s favorite Bible verse is Micah 6:8: “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”