Benjamin R. Cook
Winona Lake
Summary
I am a student at Grace College studying Youth & Family Ministry pursuing a Bachelor's of Arts, Master of Arts, and an M.Div. in Pastoral Studies. For my career goals I plan to become a youth pastor and work my way to a lead pastor position. I hope to use my leadership, connection with others, teamwork, and attention to detail skills to better the work the Lord has for me.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
Work History
Sunday School Teacher's Assistant
Millerton Wesleyan Church
Millerton, PA
08.2024 - 08.2026
- Assisted lead teacher in planning and delivering engaging lessons for kids in kindergarten to fifth grade
- Supported students'' spiritual growth by encouraging thoughtful reflection on scripture readings during class discussions.
- Maintained classroom order and discipline while nurturing a positive environment conducive to learning.
- Supported classroom management by fostering a positive learning environment.
- Adapted lesson plans based on individual student needs and learning styles.
- Actively sought out opportunities to incorporate real-world examples and relatable experiences into classroom discussions, deepening students'' understanding of biblical concepts.
Camp Counselor
Chambers Camp and Retreat Center
Beaver Dams, NY
06.2024 - 08.2025
- Led daily activities and programs for diverse groups of campers, ensuring engagement and safety.
- Led a Bible study time each night for a group of campers
- Supervised cabin groups, providing guidance and support to enhance camper experience and resolve conflicts.
- Developed and implemented creative programs that fostered personal growth and teamwork among campers.
- Monitored camper behavior, addressing issues promptly to maintain a positive camp environment.
- Collaborated with staff to improve program offerings based on camper feedback and participation levels.
- Worked with children of varying age, interest, skill, and developmental levels.
- Led groups of children safely through variety of camp activities.
- Collaborated with other camp counselors to design fun and enriching learning activities for campers.
- Boosted camp morale by fostering a supportive, inclusive, and fun environment for all participants.
- Developed strong relationships with co-counselors that resulted in seamless teamwork during challenging situations or emergencies.
- Supported campers' personal growth by providing consistent emotional and social support.
VBS Games Leader
Millerton Wesleyan Church
Millerton, PA
07.2023 - 08.2025
- Collaborated with church leadership on strategic planning for future VBS sessions and community needs.
- Made volunteers feel valued and a part of the team
- Developed a different game for the kids to play each day
- Facilitated engaging activities for children, enhancing learning experiences and community involvement.
- Organized logistics for events, streamlining processes to enhance overall efficiency and participant satisfaction.
- Implemented feedback mechanisms to gather insights from participants, driving continuous program improvement.
- Led volunteer recruitment efforts, expanding outreach strategies to engage community members effectively.
- Supported fellow volunteers and staff in maintaining a safe, nurturing environment for all participants.
FFA Officer
Troy FFA Organization
Troy, PA
05.2024 - 05.2025
- Coordinated events promoting agricultural awareness within community.
- Assisted in developing leadership skills among FFA members.
- Supported fundraising initiatives to enhance organization resources.
- Facilitated communication between officers and general membership.
- Participated in planning meetings to drive organizational goals.
- Provided spiritual guidance and support to individuals within the chapter
- Contributed to an inclusive environment within FFA chapters, cultivating respect for all individuals involved regardless of background or experience levels.
- Improved public speaking capabilities through regular presentations at FFA functions and community events.
- Increased member engagement by consistently promoting opportunities for involvement in various agricultural activities.
- Strengthened leadership abilities through the planning and execution of chapter meetings, conferences, and workshops.
Kid's Ministry Night Volunteer
Millerton Wesleyan Church
Millerton, PA
09.2023 - 05.2025
- Assisted with special events and programs withing the Ministry.
- Led the time of games for the students each week and also aided in asking questions to make them think after the lessons.
- Collaborated with leadership to assess program effectiveness and implement necessary improvements.
- Supported engaging, fun, and smooth-running events by helping with organization and planning.
- Used strong interpersonal communication skills to convey information to others.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Youth & Family Ministry
Grace College
Winona Lake, IN05-2030
Master of Arts - Youth & Family Ministry
Grace College
Winona Lake, IN05-2030
M.Div - Pastoral Studies
Grace College
Winona Lake, IN05-2030
Skills
- Teamwork
- Leadership
- Public speaking
- Lesson development
- Age-appropriate activities
- Event planning
- Attention to detail
- Connected with others
Accomplishments
I started my own painting and crafts business in August, 2024. My painted products include rocks, vinyls, glass bottles, canvasses, and I am looking to add more to this list. Other products include paracord keychains, macrame trees of life, plant holders, and other wall decorations.
Timeline
Sunday School Teacher's Assistant
Millerton Wesleyan Church
08.2024 - 08.2026
Camp Counselor
Chambers Camp and Retreat Center
06.2024 - 08.2025
FFA Officer
Troy FFA Organization
05.2024 - 05.2025
Kid's Ministry Night Volunteer
Millerton Wesleyan Church
09.2023 - 05.2025
VBS Games Leader
Millerton Wesleyan Church
07.2023 - 08.2025
Bachelor of Arts - Youth & Family Ministry
Grace College
Master of Arts - Youth & Family Ministry
Grace College
M.Div - Pastoral Studies
Grace College