For the first time in Arkansas Conference history, a joint training for summer interns was held in late May at Camp Tanako. Due to the generosity of The Methodist Foundation for Arkansas, 45 interns from Camp Tanako, Mount Eagle, Ozark Mission Project, Philander Smith University’s Youth Theological Institute, Project Transformation, and Shoal Creek Camp gathered together for 24 hours of training before beginning each organization’s staff training. The training included the following workshops:
- Conflict Resolution and Effective Communication Skills with Steven Shook, Founder of ShakeItUp Consulting
- Finances 101 with Cara Brazeal, CPA, and Project Transformation Board Member
- Understanding More Than My Own Generation with Rev. Dr. Michelle Morris, Lead Pastor at FUMC Bentonville
- Mental Health First Aid with Amy Shores, Director of Wesley Foundation at UCA
- Cultural Competency with Dr. Jacquelyn Wiersma-Mosley, Professor of Human Development and Family Sciences and Assistant Dean of Bumpers College in the UofA System Division of Agriculture
In addition, the group was led in worship by students from Philander Smith University, Rev. Danita Waller-Paige, and Bishop Laura Merrill.
Through an evaluation after the training, one intern shared that they enjoyed connecting “with different organizations and worked together with their employees. By allowing us to intermingle, I had a more full understanding of how to network with other organizations.” Another intern shared that they “learned a lot about different generations and how to better communicate with them. I also was motivated to become a more active proponent of diversity, equity, and inclusion in my everyday life.”
At the end of the summer, interns will complete another evaluation that will further determine which workshops are needed for future join internship trainings. Another intern training is anticipated for May of 2025 and will be open to all ARUMC churches, affiliated camps, and affiliated nonprofit organizations.
