Jeff's journey with Ponderosa Bible Camp is marked by a profound connection to our mission. Beginning as one of our inaugural campers in 1976, Jeff's evolution from camper to a vital member of our summer staff during high school and college demonstrates his enduring commitment.

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Armed with a Degree in Business Management and an Associates Degree in Landscape/ Horticulture, Jeff's post-college journey took a corporate turn. He and Ann married, and Jeff spent a decade as the Vice President of a multi-million dollar commercial landscape company in Birmingham, AL, showcasing his business acumen and horticultural expertise.

In a pivotal shift, Jeff chose to leave the corporate world after 10 years to embrace full-time ministry at Ponderosa. Since 1998, Jeff and Ann have dedicated themselves wholeheartedly to the camp. In his role as Executive Director, Jeff's visionary leadership propels our camp towards continuous growth and impact. Ann, his wife, contributes significantly as our camp photographer and adeptly manages our website and social media platforms.

Choosing to live and work at camp year-round, the Nelsons have transformed Ponderosa into more than a workplace; it's their home. Their commitment transcends professional roles, shaping the very essence of our camp community.

The Nelson family stands as a testament to deep love and connection, with 11 children, 8 happily married, and 12 proud grandchildren—a vibrant reflection of the values we hold dear.​

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Read More about the Nelsons

Faith Martinez (formerly Nelson), the 26-year-old daughter of Jeff and Ann Nelson, has a deep and lifelong connection to Ponderosa Bible Camp, having been born and raised in this unique environment of faith and service. After graduating from high school, Faith pursued a career as a medical assistant, gaining valuable experience over the past six years working in both family medicine and dermatology.

Although her professional path has been in healthcare, Faith’s heart has always been in ministry. Her passion for missions is evident as she faithfully serves in Honduras on short-term mission trips at least once a year. It was on these mission trips that Faith met Leo Martinez, who shares her heart for serving others. Despite the demands of her medical career, Faith’s love for Ponderosa never faded. She would often spend her evenings back at camp, leading worship or jumping in wherever she was needed after a full day at the doctor’s office.

Faith’s dream of serving at Ponderosa full-time became a reality when she officially joined our staff on December 30, 2024, after reaching 95% of her support needs. In her role as Administrative Office Assistant and Guest Group Coordinator, she brings her versatile skills to the office, assists with Released Time, helps manage both the Gift Shop and Snack Shop for Summer Camp and Guest Rental Groups, and serves as a Lifeguard. Her heart for service and ministry is a blessing in every area she touches.

In August 2025, Faith married Leo Martinez, and together they are now serving on our staff team at Ponderosa! As a married couple, they now have a higher support goal to fully meet the budget for their combined staff positions. Faith and Leo are trusting the Lord to provide the remaining support needed so they can continue serving Christ through Ponderosa without financial strain.

Would you consider partnering with Faith and Leo through monthly giving? Your support will not only help them continue in their calling but also allow Ponderosa to keep impacting lives for Christ.

Empower Our Mission: Support Our Donor-Supported Staff! 

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At Ponderosa Bible Camp, every staff member relies on the generosity of supporters like you. None of our dedicated staff missionaries receive a base salary from the camp; instead, we depend on individuals who appreciate our ministry and share our vision for reaching children and teens.

Your donations towards our support are invaluable, making a meaningful impact on our ability to make a difference.

Thank you for standing with us in this important endeavor!

Gratefully,
Jeff Nelson, Executive Director
Ponderosa Bible Camp

Max and Sherrie Grizzard have been instrumental in our ministry since 2002, passionately serving through DeKalb County Released Time Bible Classes and Summer Camp.

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Max, our dedicated director, has led DeKalb County Released Time, providing weekly Bible classes in public schools in DeKalb County, Alabama. This vital ministry has impacted lives for nearly two decades under his leadership.

During summer camp, Max and Sherrie take on the crucial role of Kitchen Directors, overseeing menu planning and training and supervising our TEAM Members. Their dedication ensures a smooth and enjoyable dining experience for everyone at camp.

Beyond their roles, Max and Sherrie are parents to 7 children, with all 7 happily married. They are proud grandparents of 6 (and counting). Recently relocating from Gadsden, Alabama, they now call Ponderosa home year-round.

As donor-supported staff members, Max and Sherrie rely on your generosity to continue their impactful roles at Ponderosa Bible Camp. Your donations towards their support are greatly appreciated and will be acknowledged with a tax-deductible receipt.

Thank you for considering supporting Max and Sherrie Grizzard in their dedicated service at Ponderosa Bible Camp. Your generosity plays a vital role in sustaining our vibrant community and diverse ministries.

Carson Barnett is joining the Ponderosa team for a one-year internship and raising support to serve alongside our ministry staff. A 2025 graduate of Crossroads Christian School, Carson is no stranger to Ponderosa—he has attended camp for years and served faithfully as both a TEAM and SALT member during past summers.

Carson brings a passion for worship and a heart for ministry. An accomplished guitarist and gifted worship leader, he spent this past summer touring with his worship band, using his talents to lead others in praise.

Eager to learn more about all that goes into camping ministry, Carson will be involved in every area of camp life throughout his internship—including Released Time, hosting guest groups, grounds and building maintenance, and preparing for Summer Camp 2026. We are thrilled to have him on board and excited to see how God will grow and use him during this season of service!

As a donor-supported staff member, Carson—like the rest of our ministry team—depends on the generosity of others to continue his impactful role at Ponderosa Bible Camp. Your donations toward his support are greatly appreciated and will be acknowledged with a tax-deductible receipt.

Director of Crafts

Summer Staff Volunteer!

Ponderosa Bible Camp is blessed to have Dawn Hinkle as a devoted volunteer, contributing her time and passion for nearly two decades. Serving as the Director of Crafts for our summer camp, Dawn's unwavering dedication and love for children are truly remarkable. In the heart of our craft room, she creates a warm and nurturing environment where kids can not only unleash their creativity but also experience the love of Jesus through her caring guidance. Dawn's invaluable commitment has left an indelible mark on Ponderosa Bible Camp, making it a place where faith, creativity, and the joy of sharing Jesus come together in a beautiful harmony.

Jon David, born and raised at Ponderosa as the son of Jeff and Ann Nelson, has a rich history with our camp. In June 2022, he married his college sweetheart, Sarah Welch. Their love story began at Bryan College, where they not only excelled on the track team together but also graduated side by side.

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Having served as Camp Counselors during their college years, Jon David and Sarah felt a divine confirmation of their call to become full-time missionaries at Ponderosa. Their journey continues with a commitment to raising support, actively seeking new prayer and financial partners.

In June 2025, Jon David and Sarah welcomed their first child—a beautiful baby girl! As they adjust to life as new parents, they remain faithful in their calling to live and serve at camp year-round.

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Sarah, who has been serving as an Assistant Track & XC Coach at Covenant College, will be stepping down from her coaching position to stay home with their daughter and dedicate more time to serving at Ponderosa. With this transition, the Nelsons will be raising additional support to meet the needs of their growing family.

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As donor-supported staff members, Jon David and Sarah, like their colleagues, depend on your generosity to continue their impactful roles at Ponderosa Bible Camp. Your donations toward their support are greatly appreciated and will be acknowledged with a tax-deductible receipt.

Thank you for considering supporting Jon David and Sarah Nelson.

Bringing over 30 years of devoted service in children's ministry, Diane Chavers stands as a pillar of experience at Ponderosa Bible Camp. Prior to her time with us, Diane, alongside her late husband Daryl, shared their passion for ministry at The Big Oak Ranch with John Croyle in Gadsden, AL., and later at the Baptist Children's Home in Memphis, TN. 
In 2009, both Daryl and Diane joyfully joined the Ponderosa family, serving side by side until Daryl's passing in 2018. Diane, committed to honoring Daryl's legacy, continues to serve as our Mailbox Club Coordinator and Lesson Grader, contributing significantly to the outreach of our ministry.
Beyond her official roles, Diane extends her warm and compassionate nature by assisting Mrs. Sherrie with grocery shopping and food prep.
As a donor-supported staff member, Diane relies on your generosity to sustain her impactful role at Ponderosa Bible Camp. Your donations towards her support are greatly appreciated and will be acknowledged with a tax-deductible receipt.
Thank you for considering supporting Diane Chavers in her compassionate service at Ponderosa Bible Camp. Your generosity is fundamental in maintaining our vibrant community and diverse ministries.

Head Lifeguard

Summer Staff - 10+ years!

From growing up at Ponderosa to becoming a cornerstone of our summer team, Kristin's dedication to keeping our pool sparkling clean and ensuring the safety of all our swimmers is truly commendable.

Her unwavering commitment to Ponderosa, even after getting married and moving across town, speaks volumes about her love for this camp and the community it fosters.