Joy El Ministries - Our Staff

Our Staff

	Aaron Ziebarth Executive Director	Aaron felt God's call to ministry in seventh grade. After earning his master's of divinity at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, Aaron gained leadership experience at several Christian camps and his family's transportation business. Aaron and wife Stephanie love God's Word and are committed to scripture memorization. They and their three children live in Greencastle, where they enjoy community involvement, playing games, family bike rides, etc. Aaron often challenges himself and finds refreshment on the Appalachian Trail. Some of Aaron's favorite verses include 1 Thessalonians 2:8 “We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us” and Colossians 3:17 “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”
	Mike Smith Business Manager	Mike joined the Joy El staff in the summer of 2009 after 10 years of serving with Hospice of Washington County. Mike lives in Hagerstown with his wife Cindy. They have two grown children, Lauren and Craig. Mike's favorite pasttimes when not crunching the numbers in the business office are going to the gym and working around the yard at home. Mike's favorite scripture verse is Romans 5:8: But God demonstrates His own love for us in this; that while we were still sinners Christ died for us.
	Gary Hornbaker Director of Released Time Ministries	Gary Hornbaker is a long-time veteran with Joy El Ministries. He combines his leadership and organization abilities with strong people skills. Encouraging others is part of his personal philosophy and practice, and it permeates his training/equipping of others. Shippensburg is home to him and his wife Joyce. They have four children: Michael, Jeanette, Beth and Denae. His favorite verse is 2 Timothy 2:2: “and the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others.” He enjoys travel, missions and personal growth.
	Steve Rice Director of Camping Programs	Steve grew up in Mendon, Michigan, in rural farm country. He attended Cornerstone University, receiving a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Youth Ministry with a minor in Camping and Sports Ministry. Steve has worked at Lake Ann Camp in Michigan and Hume Lake Christian Camps in California before coming to Camp Joy El. In his spare time, Steve enjoys rock climbing, sports, sketching and drawing. He is married to wife Sarah. One of Steve’s favorite scripture passages is John 10:9-10: “I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. He will come in and go out, and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life; and have it to the full.”
	Adam Eichorn Director of Camping Operations	Adam is our new Director of Camping Operations and joins the Joy El staff from Lynchburg, VA., where he recently graduated with a Master of Arts in Christian Leadership. He also holds a Bachelor's degree in Christian Ministry from Northern Tennessee Bible Institute. Adam's camp experience includes serving on the summer leadership staff at Camp Joy El as well as serving on the summer staff multiple summers and as Farm Manager for three years at Miracle Mountain Ranch. Adams enjoys hiking, hunting, reading, sports and making people laugh. His favorite scripture verse is currently: For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline. (2 Timothy 1:7)
	Tanya Pearrell Executive Assistant	Tanya is a life-long native of the north Hagerstown area. Tanya serves as the Executive Assistant for our Executive Director. She loves being involved in the many details that support the work of the ministry behind the scenes and being part of a work that develops students spiritually in their walk with the Lord. When she's not busy at Joy El, Tanya enjoys reading, spending time with her husband Scott and daughter Ashlyn. Tanya's favorite scripture passage is Jeremiah 29:11: " 'I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.' "
	Jeanette Biesecker Public Relations- Marketing Coordinator and Bookkeeper	Jeanette is our English major who also does math! She serves as both PR coordinator and bookkeeper. She's a graduate of Shippensburg University and a lifelong native of Waynesboro where she resides with her husband Kevin and their son Gerry. In her leisure hours, she enjoys reading, writing, browsing the web, caring for the family pets and going on “dates” with her husband. Her favorite verse is Philippians 1:20: “I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed , but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death.”
	Michelle Lackey Development Coordinator	Michelle grew up as a camper at Camp Joy El, becoming a junior counselor as soon as she was old enough and eventually served as a member of the summer senior staff. Today, Michelle is our Development Coordinator. After graduating from the Greencastle-Antrim school system, Michelle attended Liberty University and New Tribes Bible Institute in order to earn her associate's degree in Bible education. When she's not busy at her desk or meeting and greeting people, Michelle enjoys reading, music and running. She's a lifelong native of Greencastle. Michelle's favorite scripture passage is 1 Timothy 6:6: "For godliness with contentment is great gain."
	Reba Miller Missionary Emeritus	Reba earned the title, Missionary Emeritus, for her more-than-30 years of work with Released Time, both in Franklin County and in western PA. She is a walking wealth of historical information about the program and the early camps before Camp Joy El was built. She maintains active participation in the ministry to this day. Reba resides at Menno Haven retirement community in Chambersburg where she shares the Gospel with other residents and with prisoners whose Bible correspondence lessons she regularly grades. Her favorite verse is Philippians 3:10: “That I may know Him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death.”
	Brenda Brazee Released Time Regional Coordinator	Brenda began her association with Joy El as a volunteer. She has been involved in the Released Time Bible Program since 1991. She and husband Bob live in Quarryville with their two sons, Bobby and Mark, where Brenda homeschools Mark. Brenda loves reading, working with children and teens at her church, and telling others about the Released Time Bible Program. Brenda’s favorite scripture verse is: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me,” Philippians 4:13.
	Lisa Walk Released Time Regional Coordinator	Lisa first participated in the Released Time Bible Program as a school coordinator at York Haven over ten years ago. She is a native of Johnstown, but has lived in York County since 1985. She is the proud mom of two teenagers: Kenny and Andrew. Lisa enjoys reading and kayaking in her spare time. Her favorite scripture verse is Romans 8:28: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
	Lois Ann Glessner Released Time Training & Curriculum Coordinator	Lois Ann is an Elementary Education graduate of Shippensburg University. She grew up in Released Time classes and in our summer camping program. Having worked with Joy El Ministries for over 19 years, she contributes historical perspective as well as invaluable knowledge and insight from a wealth of hands-on experiences in our programs. "Downtown" Clay Lick is home to her and her husband Roger and their two young sons, Benjamin and Joel. Her favorite passage is Ephesians 5:15 &16: “Be very careful, then, how you live - not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.”
	Nancy Derrick Released Time Regional Coordinator	Prior to joining the Joy El staff, Nancy had previously served as an RT area coordinator for CIA and Chi Alpha in Franklin County and had also served for two years as a member of our board of directors. Nancy has a Bachelor of Arts in English from Vanderbilt University. She has been married to husband Jim for 28 years. Together they have three grown sons. The Derricks reside in Waynesboro. Nancy's favorite scripture passage is Jeremiah 33:3: “Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know."
	Sue Witmer Released Time Administrative Assistant	Sue brings with her much experience to this position as she previously served Joy El for almost 8 years as our Camping Ministries Assistant and Receptionist. Some of Sue's favorite pasttimes are scrapbooking, reading, and gardening. She's a lifelong native of Mercersburg, PA and she and husband Joe still reside there. Sue has two grown sons, Jeremy and Chad, who both have grown up in the programs at Joy El. Sue’s favorite scripture passage is Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight.”
	Debbie Haupt Guest Ministries Coordinator	Debbie loves taking care of the many details involved in our guests' retreats. Debbie is a Pennsylvania native who lived in South Carolina for 16 years before returning "home." She is married to husband John. They have 3 grown children and 8 grandchildren. Her favorite pasttimes are spending time with John and enjoying her children and grandchildren. Debbie's favorite Bible passage is Hebrews 12, especially in the Message: “...get on with it...and never quit! Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race we're in. Study how he did it. Because he never lost sight of where he was headed."
	Faith Dunkle Assistant Program Coordinator	Faith, our assistant program coordinator, loves serving the Lord through various ministry outreaches, such as mission trips, mentoring campers, and teaching pre-schoolers at church. She has been a camp counselor since the summer of 2007. Her passion for camping ministries started when she was a senior high camper at Rhodes Grove Camp. She is presently taking online courses from Liberty University to earn an Associates degree in Religion. In her free time, Faith enjoys playing with her 2-year-old niece, writing music, playing the piano, and singing. Faith's favorite scripture verse currently is Galatians 6:9: "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."
	Josh Wolfe 4.12 Leadership Training Program Coordinator	Josh starts his tenure as our 4.12 Leadership Training Program Coordinator in summer 2010, but he's far from new to the program. Josh's relationship with the 4.12 LTP began as a student enrolled in the program. He participated 4 years, graduated and has completed a year of college at Pensacola Christian College. He will be continuing his education through Liberty University Online as he serves at Joy El. Josh is a native of Shippensburg, PA. He was home schooled as a high school student and has a passion for discipleship. In his spare time, he enjoys reading, writing, hiking, photography and model trains. Josh's favorite scripture verse is 1 Peter 2:21: "To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his footsteps."
	Mary John Food Service & Housekeeping Coordinator	Mary John is the Food Service Coordinator for Joy El Ministries. Mary has worked in food preparation and food service ever since beginning her career with a course in Quality Foods at Franklin County Vo-Tech. She served as kitchen supervisor at Camp Penn for 7 years before spending ten years as Breakfast Cook at the Founders Grill at Penn National Golf Course. She has also worked Ski Liberty and Whitetail Ski Resort. Mary enjoys spending time with husband Don and children, Tiffaney and Jeremiah, as well as other family and friends. Fishing and volleyball are hobbies. Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” is special to her.
	Stephanie Ziebarth Barnabas Ministry Coordinator	Stephanie brings to Joy El the discipleship training she received through The Navigators and from 13 years of discipleship experience. Because Stephanie's primary gift and passion is discipleship, the Barnabas Ministry is a great fit for her. Stephanie holds a B.A. in Journalism from the University of Minnesota. She actively disciples her three young children, as well as young women from the community. She enjoys time with her husband and family, as well as activities such as hiking, camping and taking family bike rides. She also enjoys reading, writing, jogging and fellowshipping with others. Stephanie cites Jeremiah 15:16 as a verse that excites her: “When your words came, I ate them; they were my joy and my heart's delight, for I bear your name, O LORD God Almighty.”
	Valerie Elliott Camping Ministries Administrative Assistant	Valerie lives in Greencastle after many years traveling across the United States, courtesy of the USAF. She received her degree in Fine Arts from Colorado State University. Valerie plays the flute and especially enjoys the fellowship that music affords. In addition to reading and writing, she enjoys spending time with her family outdoors, either hiking, working in the garden, or marveling at God’s glory in the night sky. As begins one of her favorite Psalms, “The heavens declare the glory of God,” so verses 10 and 11 are particularly treasured: “[The ordinances of the Lord] are more precious than gold, than much pure gold; they are sweeter than honey, than honey from the comb. By them is your servant warned, in keeping them there is great reward.”
	Angela Diaz Released Time Area Coordinator	Angela is an Area Coordinator for Released Time in York County. She and husband live in Jacobus and have 3 children, Xavier, Emelia, and Lydia. Last year, Angela served as school coordinator for the Loganville-Springfield RT class. Angela is very involved with her children. She serves as co-chair on the Loganville-Springfield PTA and serves on the Caring and Sharing Committee. She also coaches her daughter’s cheer squad. Recently Angela began taking piano lessons, a desire she’d always had but only now has found time to pursue. One passage of scripture with significant meaning for Angela is Judges 5:31: “So may all your enemies perish, O Lord! But may they who love you be like the sun when it rises in its strength.”
	Eileen Brenize Released Time Area Coordinator	Eileen lives in the Shippensburg area along with husband Dave and they’ve been married for 36 years. Eileen and Dave have 3 grown, married children: Denay, Dave and Amy. They also have 6 grandchildren all in grades 1 through 6. They share their home with a boxer-mix dog named Sandy. In her spare time, Eileen enjoys spending time with her family and doing needlework. Eileen’s favorite scripture passage is Matthew 6:25-34. She shares verse 33 with you here: "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."
	Erin Wolf Released Time Area Coordinator	Erin grew up along the Mississippi River in northwest Illinois. She attended Wartburg College in Waverly, Iowa, and earned her Bachelor's in Music Education. After graduation, she moved back to Illinois and spent two years teaching band in a public school. Erin has a passion for missions, teaching, and children. In May of 2007, she moved to Chambersburg, PA to begin working as the children's ministries coordinator for a short-term missions organization. One of Erin's favorite passages is Philippians 3:7-8: "But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord."
	Heidi Guyer Released Time Area Coordinator	Heidi is an Area Coordinator in Franklin County. She and husband of four years, Alan, currently live in Middletown but are in the midst of moving to the Chambersburg area. Heidi was once a Released Time student in Shippensburg and is now excited to be part of the program once again. She is passionate about working with children and teens. She is also a volunteer youth leader with the middle school program at her church. Some of her pasttimes are reading, watching crime shows and spending time with family. Heidi's favorite scripture verse is Psalm 34:4: "I sought the LORD, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears."
	Josie Hackman Released Time Area Coordinator	Josie serves as an Area Coordinator for Released Time in Lancaster County. She and her husband live in Shaefferstown with their 4 children. Josie began with Released Time as a volunteer listener at Schaefferstown’s RT when it started. A few years later she served as secretary for that class. She loves spending time at home with her family and also being involved with the children’s ministry at her church. A new pastime for her vegetable gardening, something she’s enjoying very much. Josie’s favorite scripture passages are Philippians 4:13 and Psalm 34:1-4. She shares from Philippians here: “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” Phil. 4:13.
	Kathy Dunklebarger Released Time Area Coordinator	Kathy lives in Buck Valley with her husband Scott. They have a son, Tobin, who attends the Pennsylvania College of Technology in Williamsport, PA. Kathy enjoys sports (especially football – Go Penn State and Steelers!), croqueting, cross-stitching and other crafts. She also loves flowers. Kathy serves her church by teaching Sunday school to 2 and 3 year-olds. Another interest is Biblical apologetics and Creation apologetics. Kathy’s favorite scripture passage is Romans 3:23, 24: "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus."
	Mim Hake Released Time Area Coordinator	Mim Hake lives in Strinestown with her husband of 31 years, Randy. They have two children: Andrew and Kalah. They also share their home with a 6-lb, long-coat Chihuahua named Morgan. Mim first served as a school coordinator for 9 years before becoming an area coordinator. Besides serving with Released Time, Mim teaches piano lessons and currently has 17 students. Mim’s favorite scripture passage is 2 Corinthians 12:9: "But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore will I boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.”
	Sandie Grube Released Time Area Coordinator	Sandie started with Joy El as a school coordinator at Reamstown Elementary, an RT program she started. Sandie lives in Reamstown with her husband Richard. They have two grown children, Amanda and Alan. They also have a cat named Goose and a dog named Copper. Besides serving as an Area Coordinator, Sandie works as a sales and service administrator at a sportswear and promotion company. In her spare time, she loves to read and watch American Movie Classics. Sandie’s favorite scripture verse is 2 Corinthians 5:17: "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come."
	Tammy Kitner Released Time Area Coordinator	Tammy serves as Area Coordinator in York County. She and husband Mark live in Wellsville with their three children Ashley (16), Stephanie (14), and John (12). She began her service as a volunteer listener eight years ago, and was a school coordinator last year. Some of Tammy's favorite activities include hiking, bike riding, camping, scrapbooking and she really loves serving the Lord. Tammy favorite scripture verse is Isaish 40:31: "But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint."
	Bethany Elliott Housekeeper	Bethany lives in the Greencastle Area with her mom and dad and her 3 sisters and 1 brother. When she's not tidying things up at Camp Joy El, she enjoys helping at church in the toddler nursery and with the puppet team in the youth group. She also enjoys watching old movies with her dad. Bethany's favorite scripture verse comes from Hebrews 11:1: "Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." (KJV)
	Ruth Bert Housekeeper	Ruth Bert and her husband James live in Fayetteville, PA. She has been with Joy El for over 3 years, but had also worked here years ago. Ruth enjoys sewing and from time to time she can be found engrossed in a mending task around camp. She and James have two sons who have given them three granddaughters. Ruth and James love to travel but also enjoy a time of rest and solitude. Ruth's favorite scripture is John 3:16: "For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."
	Sue Glontz Housekeeper	Sue lives in the Chambersburg Area with her husband Ron. When Sue isn't busy at Camp Joy El, she enjoys spending time with her pets. She loves exotic birds and has several at home: a cockatiel, a cockatoo, and a pair of love birds. She also likes creating ceramic crafts. Sue's favorite scripture passage is Psalm 139. One special section from that Psalm for her is: "For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made..."