When Kelly Schlenz ’03, MA ’11, thinks of his childhood, he recalls the multitude of camp-filled memories in Idyllwild, Calif. From sitting around a campfire singing songs with his family and friends, to playing in the woods and hopping from rope swings, Schlenz’s passion for building community and seeking Christ through camp life set the foundation for a journey that led him to return to the place he loves most. Following in his grandfather’s, father’s and father-in-law’s footsteps, Schlenz currently serves as the executive director of Idyllwild Pines Camp.
Schlenz’s decision to attend Azusa Pacific University as an undergraduate was unexpected. He had originally planned to go to community college, and was unsure of what to study. Inspired by his uncle, who used to teach at APU, Schlenz’s first time stepping onto campus transformed his view, and he quickly submitted his application. Schlenz explored different fields of study and chose to pursue communications, fascinated by learning about the ways organizations work.
While Schlenz was surrounded by devout Christians growing up, his faith truly became his own during college. “APU was pivotal for me,” Schlenz said. A variety of experiences shaped Schlenz into the man he is today. Diving into a plethora of opportunities, Schlenz cherishes his time as a student ambassador, alpha leader, and admissions intern. Being involved in campus life allowed him to deepen friendships and meet his wife, Pamela ’03.
After graduating, Schlenz was thrilled to begin working at APU as a recruitment officer. Everything Schlenz had learned in the classroom came to life when he gained hands-on experience in an office space, learning to meet expectations, manage a team with care, and ultimately touch lives through his positive demeanor and inviting personality.
A few years after Schlenz got married, he and his wife were expecting their first child. Pamela envisioned being a stay-at-home mom, and during that time Schlenz applied to be a resident director at APU. “For eight years we raised a family on campus, and it was such a blessing,” Schelnz said. They had two more children, and loved having them grow up around an engaging community. “I grew up so close to my family’s work, so having that for my kids was amazing.” Schlenz looks back at that season of life as one that was enriching and enjoyable. He fondly remembers collaborating with former APU president Jon Wallace, and spending time in fellowship with students in the shire mods. Schlenz earned his Masters in Leadership with an emphasis in leadership development while he was a resident director. “APU became a learning laboratory for me because I was able to immediately implement all of the class material I encountered through my role as resident director.”
Schlenz later felt God calling him to return to camp ministry. Moving back to Idyllwild Pines meant his children would be near both sets of grandparents, offering them the family and camp life Schlenz loved having growing up. The camp needed a program coordinator to run activities and programs, so Schlenz stepped into the role, embarking on a new chapter in life. When Schlenz’s father-in-law was planning to resign from his position as executive director of Idyllwild Pines Camp in order to work on different mission projects, he asked Schlenz if he could fulfill the role.
As executive director, Schlenz manages the camp staff, allowing him to minister to colleagues he has a fruitful connection with. “We all pour into each other,” he said. The camp was founded by a group of Los Angeles businessmen 100 years ago who all came from different Christian denominations. They wanted to create a place where everyone was invited to come together, study the Bible, and enjoy the wilderness. The legacy still lasts today and groups up to 500 people can stay year round.“Idyllwild Pines Camp offers an experience similar to APU because there is a clear, Christ-centered focus where all are welcome.”
Schlenz is especially excited to continue working toward a new ministry he and his team started at camp. “We developed Family Spellers Camp in partnership with Autistically Inclined to give families with individuals on the spectrum a place where they can all come together and be blessed by the power of camp. It provides an opportunity unlike any other that ministers to the entire family and creates a community that really lets families show up, let their guard down and be surrounded by people who love them.”
For Schlenz, the sight of traditions continuously being carried out at camp provide a joy unlike any other. He seeks to share the fun of camp life with as many as possible. Ultimately, he attributes his fulfillment to Christ. Schlenz is grateful for all that he learned as a student and employee at APU, and is especially thankful to have met his wife. “I wouldn’t have a story to tell without Pamela,” he said. Between being a loving husband, proud father, and enthusiastic director, Schlenz truly lives out his God-given calling.