Friends of Ferncliff
When you join Friends of Ferncliff, you become part of a circle of supporters who keep campfires burning, trails open, disaster kits stocked, cabins welcoming, and children discovering faith in the beauty of God’s creation.
A Preschooler Reminds Us That Anyone Can Make a Difference
Living out Ferncliff’s mission: caring for Creation, others, and self
Some reminders about generosity come from unexpected places — and sometimes from some of the smallest people in our community.
One morning on the way to school, Owen, a current student in the Ferncliff Nature Preschool, noticed the Connect. Inspire. Transform. capital campaign sign as he and his mom turned into the Ferncliff drive. Curious, he asked what it meant, and when he learned that Ferncliff was working to build new spaces that help children learn, help families in crisis, and strengthen our whole community, something clicked.
He wanted to help. That afternoon, Owen went home, opened his colorful piggy bank, and gathered all of his savings — $10.87 in coins. He asked his mom for a box, tucked the bag of coins into a shoebox, and carried it proudly into school the next morning. With his mom watching, he handed the box to his teachers and explained that he wanted to donate it to Ferncliff.
His mom, Jessica, shared that once Owen gets an idea in his head, “that’s it — you just say, okay buddy, let’s go, we’re going to do it.”
She described how, when Owen saw the campaign sign, he said, “Mom, they’re almost at their goal… I brought money today. I could donate it.”
No one prompted him.
No one suggested it.
His generosity came purely from seeing a need and wanting to be part of the solution — wanting to be a helper.
This is the heart of giving.
It isn’t about an amount.
It isn’t about age.
It isn’t about being asked.
It’s about responding with love when your heart feels moved.
Owen’s gift is a powerful reminder that everyone has something to give: time, kindness, resources, skills, and compassion. Giving isn’t reserved for adults or donors or people with abundance. It’s something that grows in us, one small act at a time.
And even in the brief, wiggly restlessness of a five-year-old interview, Owen’s joy for Ferncliff shines through. He talked about his nature name (“Bulfrog”), his teachers Miss Rachel and Mr. John, finding mushrooms, and playing at the creek. These small glimpses show exactly why he cares — Ferncliff is his place of exploration, belonging, and wonder.
At Ferncliff, this is exactly what we mean when we talk about our mission to care for Creation, others, and self. Owen lived that mission in a beautiful, unprompted way.
Kindness in action.
A heartfelt gift.
Mission in motion.
Today, on our Day of Giving, we invite you to join Owen in whatever way feels right for you.
Whether your gift is large or small, monthly or one-time, every act of generosity helps transform Ferncliff for the children, families, campers, and guests who come here seeking connection, healing, and joy.
Everyone has the power to give back.
Everyone can make a difference.
Give today at ferncliff.org/give and be part of building something beautiful together.
When you join Friends of Ferncliff, you’re helping more than nature preschoolers. You’re keeping faith, community, and Creation care alive all year long. Become an Official Friends of Ferncliff Member to receive exclusive membership benefits and a FREE thank you gift.
Membership levels start at just $25. Your monthly gift makes a huge difference every single day.