A message from our Executive Director
For the past 28 years, Wilderness Trek has been a part of my life. First as a guide in the summers of 1995 and 1996, then as a board member for 5 years, and finally as Executive Director for nearly 6 years. Thanks to you, over the past 6 years we have raised over 1.7 million dollars, ran trips in 5 states, hosted groups from every major denomination and taken over 1,200 teens through one of our one-week discipleship and leadership training programs. To say that I am proud of what we have accomplished in the past 6 years is an understatement.
As you know, last year I had a life-changing near-fatal accident. As I spent 6 months laying in bed, I found myself evaluating my role with Trek and how I would like to spend my remaining time investing in God’s Kingdom. After much searching, prayer, and discussions with my family, I have concluded it is time to move into another type of ministry.
While I am proud of the work we have done here over the past 6 years, it is clear to me that I am a vastly different person than I was when this journey began. That is why I will be transitioning out as Executive Director over the next 2 months. I will be working behind the scenes to help ensure a smooth transition between now and Aug 31. During this time, I will be searching for a new ministry job, finishing strong, and helping Wilderness Trek make disciples and train leaders.
Please keep Wilderness Trek and my family in your prayers as we all navigate this transition and strive to continue the great work and momentum your support has made possible.
Blessings,
Paul Talley
A message from our Board President
When I think of our call to ministry as followers of Jesus Christ, I’m often reminded of the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Philippians, 1:3-6:
“I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
These words remind us of our partnership as fellow believers in all that we do for God’s kingdom just as the mission of WTCC is to transform lives and pierce hearts by God’s presence and power as experienced in the grandeur of His creation. Paul Talley is one of those brothers and partners who has worked tirelessly alongside the Trek family for years. We are especially grateful for the last 6 years that he has devoted all his time, energy, and heart to continuing to develop this ministry into what it continues to be 47 years later. On behalf of the Board of Directors, we can’t thank Paul and his family enough for the efforts they have made to open new doors, blaze new trails, and continue building relationships that are at the heart of what we do in developing spiritual formation and transformation in the lives of many.
Paul’s leadership, compassion and commitment have helped guide this ministry through its fair share of obstacles in the past few years of his tenure as Executive Director. Amongst a global pandemic, historical forest fires, and major life-changing injuries, he has remained faithful and focused in unprecedented times. His zeal and drive will always be something we are thankful for as he and his family will continue to support and be advocates for this ministry. As we go through this transition, we continue to pray for Paul and where God will lead him in his next season of ministry.
The board is excited in the months ahead as we look at how God will continue to use this ministry. As we work through the changes, here are some things to consider praying for in the weeks and months ahead on behalf of the ministry.
- Mike Bennett will continue as Director of Operations and will add Interim Executive Director to his roles and responsibilities.
- We are excited about what the future holds for the Trek ministry. God is already providing creative ideas for future operations, candidates for needed positions and peace in this transitionary period.
- Thank you for the prayer and financial support you have faithfully given to WTCC over the years. Our work to transform lives and pierce hearts by God’s presence and power through His creation continues, so please continue your faithful support!
As we continue to partner together for this incredible ministry, please know that I am available to visit or chat with you if you have questions or concerns. Again, thank you Paul for your service and leadership over the past 6 years as Executive Director. We hope to continue to see you on the trail!
In HIS Grip,
Tim Bennett, President
On behalf of the WTCC Board of Directors