In 1973, a strapping young Military welder met a “cute little sailor” who was a secretary in the Security Department at the Whidbey Island Naval base. Danny and Nellie Buckland got married in the chapel on the base, and the rest is history. The couple recently celebrated their 42nd wedding anniversary.

Upon retiring both Danny and Nellie agreed that they would prefer to serve the Lord over spending their time doing as they pleased. The couple agreed that they would both enjoy helping Camping ministries. “We prayed, Lord use our skills and gifts.” said Nellie. The couple soon got connected with Pend Oreille Bible Camp north of Spokane. For four years the couple spent their springs helping Pend Oreille get up and running for summer use.

During that time, the Buckland’s learned about an organization called Hard Hats for Christ. This organization helps to match skilled workers with organizations that need help, and in no time Danny and Nellie joined. They found out about Warm Beach Camp through the Hard Hats organization and began volunteering here just a few weeks ago.

Danny is working on a top secret welding project for The Lights of Christmas. Nellie is working in the paint shop on various projects for both The Lights of Christmas and Special Friends Day Camp.

While the couple has only been at Warm Beach for a short time, they say that they are enjoying their time here. Nellie said, “I am making the name badges for Special Friends Day Camp and as I am making them I am praying for each of the campers.” “As a volunteer, you come in expecting a mess to clean up,” Danny said, “but here you come in and you find this great Volunteer Center, the nice shop, and you think to yourself, this place is awesome! You guys really take care of people here.”

If you are interested in volunteering at Warm Beach Camp please contact Jessica Wilson by email or phone: (360) 312-3417.