Finding a purpose beyond leisure

When Judy Lang retired — for the second time — she didn’t imagine she’d find herself hauling mail, cleaning mini golf courses, or pressure washing sidewalks. What she really didn’t expect was to discover a new calling that would fill her days with purpose, friendship, and laughter.

“I didn’t even know you could live full-time in an RV,” Judy said with a laugh. “And I didn’t know people volunteered at Christian camps!”

That moment of curiosity — sparked by a conversation at a campground — changed everything. Within 24 hours, Judy was driving her RV to Warm Beach Camp, ready to help with The Lights of Christmas event. What she found wasn’t just a volunteer gig. It was a community.

“I wanted a continuing community committed to a purpose larger than leisure,” she says. “That’s what I found here.”

A Mission Bigger Than Herself

Judy quickly fell in love with both the rhythm and the purpose of camp life.

“What keeps me here,” she said, “is the diversity of people we serve — kids, families, people in recovery, military groups, and churches from all different backgrounds. I get to be part of a mission without ever leaving home.”

After years as both a pastor and a professor, Judy found new ways to use her gifts: mentoring, listening, teaching outdoor school, and yes, even managing the camp mailroom. Every task became a ministry. Even pressure washing turned into a theological reminder — “Behold, I am making all things new.”

The Joy of Serving (And Getting a Little Muddy)

Judy’s philosophy is simple: “Use it or lose it. Keep moving.”

From 80-degree summer days to the chill of The Lights of Christmas season, she’s often found outside — working with guests, helping new volunteers, or scrubbing walkways before the crowds arrive.

“To others, it might just look like cleaning,” she said. “But I see a bigger picture. This is about creating spaces where families can connect and encounter joy.”

Passing It On

One of Judy’s favorite stories involves her grandchildren. She once created an “Adventure Weekend with Grandma,” where instead of being spoiled, they spent part of it volunteering at the horse arena.

“They got sweaty, they got dirty,” Judy laughed. “And they said, ‘We love this!’ Now they come back every year to volunteer at The Lights of Christmas.”

That weekend might have been short, but the lesson stuck — service is joy shared, not work endured.

Wisdom From One Who Knows

After more than a decade of volunteering, Judy knows both the challenges and the rewards. Asked what advice she’d give to new volunteers, she doesn’t hesitate:

“Love people. Be curious about how God is working. And remember, there’s no such thing as bad weather — just bad gear.”

For Judy, every season at Warm Beach Camp brings opportunities to serve, grow, and witness transformation — in others and in herself.

“It’s addictive,” she said with a smile. “Once you’ve helped bring joy and wonder to someone, you’ll want to do it again and again.”

Join the Story

If Judy’s journey inspires you, maybe it’s time to start your own. Warm Beach Camp depends on people like her year-round — people with willing hands, open hearts, and a desire to make a difference. Whether it’s for a weekend or a season, there’s a place for you here.

👉 Learn more about volunteering at Warm Beach Camp: www.warmbeach.com/Volunteer