Connecting with our past so we can build a future together
Our 2025 end of year letter
By Shayna Hammer, Head of communications and Fundraising
Friends of The Woods,
There’s a story I want to share with you.
It’s early afternoon on a Monday when a school bus crosses the bridge and a student steps off for their first field trip to Westminster Woods. They look around, unaware of what’s to come. Sprout, Cascade, and Sunny, three of our Teacher Naturalists, are waiting outside, ready to lead their groups on their first adventure.
And so it begins.
Everyone else seems caught up in the excitement of the day’s activities, but not this student.
They’re not interested in choosing a nature name or sharing their fun fact. They hang back quietly, not yet sure where they fit in.
The next morning comes quickly, and with it — Challenge Course day. For those who don’t know, our ropes course has 8 high and 10 low unique elements, each designed to test the mind and build courage, community, and trust — both with others and within oneself.
What this student didn’t know was how that course was about to change their entire mindset, and possibly, their life.
Benji, or “T-Rex,” as the kids know him, our Challenge Course Manager, gathers the group to explain what’s ahead. Some students buzz with excitement about their first element, while others hang back, nervous. Now the thing about Benji is that he never pressures anyone to complete an element — he simply encourages each student to explore what they feel capable of.
This particular student chooses to go fourth in line... not at the front, but not hiding at the back either. They clip into their harness, helmet secure, and gaze up at the tall redwood tree they’re about to climb.
“Medium salsa!” they call out — Challenge Course code for “cheer, but not too loud.” Halfway up, the student freezes. Looking down feels like staring off the Empire State Building. “I don’t think I can go any higher,” they say.
“That’s absolutely okay, you’re perfect right there,” replies T-Rex. “If you’d like to go a little higher, we’ll be right here with you.” There’s a pause. Then a deep breath. “Actually… I think I can.” They climb higher. “Ladder clear?” “Clear!” calls the crowd. “Can I jump?” “Jump on!” everyone shouts. And they do. They leap. Higher than they ever thought possible. In that moment, fear became courage, hesitation became pride.
“Dear future camper, you’re probably scared… or maybe excited, or even bored. But trust the random person you’ve never met who just so happened to experience what you are right now. You’ll have a great time. I love it here. I challenged myself and found out more about people in my class. Even during the ups and downs, the day ended with a smile. I’m going to miss this place so much.”
-Letter from Outdoor Ed camper to a future camper
Now imagine that — for every student, camper, child, and adult who crosses the bridge to a place called Westminster Woods.
Connecting with our past
Can you believe that in 2026, Westminster Woods will celebrate 80 years of camp? Time moves fast, doesn’t it?
Founded in 1946 as a place where people could draw closer to Christ, to nature, and to one another, Westminster Woods began with just the forest and the redwoods. Yes, campers really used to just bring tents and set up camp on the big green field! It wasn’t until 1950-something that just a few rustic cabins and a dining hall were finally built! In 1972, The Woods was on the brink of being sold, but The Presbytery of the Redwoods took a risk and hired Richard and Noreen Nazarian to run Summer Camp Ministry. It was then that the new Executive Directors guided The Woods into a new era of growth and transformation — and the rest is history.
Through the decades, The Woods has continued to expand, weathering storms, fires, and seasons of change — yet the heart of this place has never wavered. From our outdoor education programs, to our beloved summer ministries, to our challenge course, and to the ones that use this sanctuary solely as a retreat, Westminster Woods remains a thin space to all who seek a place where the ordinary meets the divine.
From the beginning, it has been sustained by the generosity of people like you — those who’ve given their time, talents, and treasure to keep this mission alive. Each generation leaves its mark here: the laughter of campers, friendships formed under the redwoods, and the genuine love that one feels when here, remind us why this place exists.
Because of that enduring faith and generosity, Westminster Woods continues to thrive as a living testament to what happens when community, purpose, and care for creation come together.
““What I saw and heard was a staff who embraced scripture including the Gospel, talked lovingly and powerfully about God, was incredibly patient, kind, never arrogant and
completely dedicated in their heart and soul to those they served.””
Sustaining our work year-round
The spirit that began in 1946 continues to thrive every day at The Woods. While our programs have evolved, the mission remains the same: to create a place where people of all ages can find courage, and renewal, and a connection to Christ.
Each year, thousands of students visit our outdoor education programs. Guided by our brilliant Teacher Naturalists, students learn about the forest, the watershed, and their connection to the natural world. But what they discover goes far beyond science. Through team-building and the Challenge Course, they learn confidence, empathy, and resilience.
This past year, nearly 6,000 students from across Northern California experienced that magic — many thanks to school partnerships that make it possible.
When the school year ends, our Summer Camp programs bring that same discovery to campers of all ages. This year’s Choose Your Own Adventure and Golden Paths themes encouraged creativity and independence while strengthening community. Because of your generosity through the Campership Fund, campers from across California — and even out of state — were able to join us.
And throughout the year, guest groups like churches, ministries, families, and organizations, find peace and renewal under the redwoods. Every weekend brings new faces and stories, reminding us that The Woods isn’t just a place, but a living, breathing community.
Building a future together
As we approach our 80th anniversary, Westminster Woods stands at a defining moment. For eight decades, generations have prayed, played, learned, and grown under these redwoods. Now it’s our turn to care for this sacred space — to prepare it for the next 80 years of transformation.
What began as a few cabins and a dream has become a thriving campus serving thousands every year. But after decades of love and use, time has left its mark. The grounds that have given so much to us, now need care in return.
Over the next two years, our focus is simple: restore, renew, and reimagine.
We’re investing in projects that protect the beauty and safety of this place while enhancing every guest experience.
Replacing the deck on the Bridge House — ensuring it remains a safe and welcoming gathering space for our community;
Adding bathrooms to Cabins 2 & 3 — improving comfort and accessibility for all guests;
Re-roofing Cabins 4, 5, 6, 8, 11 & 15 — keeping them sturdy, dry, and inviting for years to come; and
Resurfacing the fiberglass lining in our swimming pool — maintaining its safety and reliability for guests and campers.
These aren’t just repairs — they’re investments in the future of The Woods. They ensure that students will still look up at the canopy in awe, campers will still find courage on the Challenge Course, and families will still gather here to rest and reconnect for generations to come.
Your generosity today builds tomorrow’s sanctuary. When we strengthen the physical foundation of The Woods, we strengthen every life it touches.
Your prayers, volunteer time, and financial support mean everything. Because of you, Westminster Woods remains a place of rest, growth, and renewal.
As you consider your year-end giving, I invite you to reflect on the legacy we’ve built together and dream with us about what’s next. When you give today, you help preserve cherished memories while planting seeds for the future.
Gifts of any size will ensure we begin our 80th year strong. No matter the size, your gift has impact.
Thank you for being part of this story. Your belief in The Woods helps it endure, grow, and transform.
We couldn’t do this without you!
With gratitude,
The Woods Crew