Dear Friends and Family of Sky Ranch,

It is bittersweet that I share the news that Ally Plucheck Mertz is leaving Sky Ranch Lutheran camp, effective September 30th.  After almost 14 years in our work/ministry family, she has decided to spend more time with her actual family and pursue a new direction in her vocation.

Ally began working for Sky Ranch as the summer cook in May of 2009. She returned as the cook for the summers of 2010-2012.  She was responsible for ensuring many of our campers and guests were well fed and cared for in more ways than just nutritional nourishment! In 2011, Ally was able to share her gifts of hospitality as the Fall Host. Because of the High Park fire in 2012, she worked in the Fort Collins office for half of the summer helping with registration and office duties.  In fall of 2012, she helped in the office as support staff and began her role as our Office Manager on January 1, 2013. She has managed a great deal in this role over the past (almost) 10 years.  Ally’s office management skills and institutional knowledge have been incredible assets to the success of this ministry. However, I believe her greatest asset has been the many relationships she has built over the years.  After all, camp ministry is one where the power of community is strengthened by the relationships that are formed. 

As Ally prepares to say goodbye as an employee of Sky Ranch, she shares the following reflection:

“Sky Ranch holds a very special place in my heart. As I reflect

over the past 14 summers, I have a lot to be grateful for. I am grateful to be a part of this supportive community and appreciate the love that comes from it. I am grateful for the life skills that I have learned over the years, although some things will be more useful than others. I am grateful for the friendships that I have because of camp. But most of all, I am grateful for the power of Sky Ranch and how it is such a special place for so many. One of the biggest joys of my job is getting to hear how this place has changed lives and will continue to do so. I can’t wait to share this place with my daughter, again!”

I know I am not alone in my appreciation for everything Ally has done for Sky Ranch. She has touched the lives of many.  And although my time in knowing Ally has been shorter than most, like everyone she meets, she welcomed me into the Sky Ranch community immediately.  Ally and her family will certainly be missed on a day-to-day basis. However, she knows that she will forever be a part of the amazing family of Sky Ranch. May God continue to bless Ally, Matt, and Quinn. Please join me in prayer…

Loving creator,

As we say farewell to Ally, we entrust her to your care.  We pray for happiness and joy to be ahead of her, for wisdom and guidance to be beside her, and for grace and truth to be behind her, pushing her onwards into your goodness. We know that you will always love and protect her and continue to use her gifts to your service.

                                                                                             Amen

Lori B. Bode (she, her, hers)

Sky Ranch Executive Director