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Our Staff
Nathaniel & Hannah Ballard
Executive Director
I grew up in Duluth, Minnesota. I have always called this area home. I am thrilled about the opportunity to blend my passions together - God, the outdoors, and working with kids. I'm blessed with my wonderful wife, Hannah, our daughter Hazel Grace, and a little one coming in July! When I am not working, I like to hike, read books, adventure near and far, and spend time with my family! Spending time outside, exploring God's great creation, is such an amazing opportunity I am blessed to be apart of with the community here at Wilderness Experience.
Jenni Erickson
Program Coordinator
My name is Jenni Erickson and I am currently a middle school science and math teacher at Lakeview Christian Academy. Teaching is something I always knew I would do-- even at a young age. My husband and I have hiked several miles of the Superior Hiking Trail together, and hope to complete the entire trek someday! Camping and photography are two of my favorite things to do in my free time. You can also catch me making bracelets or reading a mystery novel in my hammock!
The excitement and joy that I get from working at Wilderness Experience is something I am very blessed by. I love knowing that kids of a variety of ages can come explore, discover, and learn more about the beautiful design of God's creation.
Our Board
Grant Nelson
President
My name is Grant Nelson and I've had the privilege of being part of Wilderness Experience from the start and seeing how God can make a simple dream a reality. I've always loved being and playing outside and still love exploring God's creation by running, hiking, skiing and more recently going on adventures with my kids. Wilderness Experience is always my kid's favorite summer camp because they get to play outside with their friends, learn new skills and learn about God. When I'm not adventuring with my kids and wife, I work as a dentist in downtown Duluth.
Rebekah Johnson
Vice President
Some of my earliest memories include trekking through the woods behind my East Coast home, climbing the tallest tree in our yard, spending an entire summer digging a hole with friends, and camping with my family around the country. Being awed, challenged, and inspired by nature on a regular basis gave credence to what I was learning at church: that God was powerful and cared about His creation, including all people. I became a landscape architect, hoping to help make the world a better place by designing outdoor spaces. It's a true blessing to have Wilderness Experience available for my four kids and our Duluth community!
Tim Noake
Treasurer
From an early age, I've had a love for the outdoors and spent many family vacations hiking and climbing mountains. After college, I spent 6 years in christian camp ministry and there met my wife. We have 3 girls who love spending time at camp learning about God's creation. I'm so thrilled to be a part of the ministry of Wilderness Experience!
Molly Weinrich
Patti Madison
My name is Patti Madison. I grew up in rural Duluth on a farm and the outdoors was my playground. I am a wife, mother, grandmother and recently retired registered nurse. Through my affiliation with Wilderness Experience, I am excited to share my love of God and the outdoors while planting seeds of faith in the lives of children. I enjoy running, biking, skiing and family time. My horse has made an appearance at Wilderness camp and I look forward to sharing her gentle therapeutic presence with the children.