Our Staff
The Forest Lake staff is made up of experienced camp managers and workers who are dedicated to ministry and passionate about helping others grow in their faith.
Shawn Ott
Camp Manager
Teresa Ott
Kitchen Manager
Shawn and Teresa have been married for 16 years. They have 2 sons Daniel (14) and Matthew (12). Shawn has been the camp manager and Teresa has been the kitchen manager since October 2016. The Otts attend Pickwick Community Church in Ottumwa, Ia. That is when they are not out visiting churches talking about camp and meeting their amazing supporters. Both Shawn and Teresa grew up in broken homes which has given them a real passion and calling to minister to youth. They feel incredibly blessed to have a job they love and get to work together.
Their sons, Daniel and Matthew, get to see ministry in action and be part of it, which has been a great learning experience for them. Shawn loves to hunt and trap and generally all outdoor activities and spending time with family. Teresa enjoys cooking, baking, reading, walking through the beautiful camp, and spending time with family. Daniel enjoys hunting, fishing, and trapping. Matthew enjoys mushroom hunting, squirrel and deer hunting, bass fishing, and trapping.
Klaire DeVos
Head Cabin Leader
Lifeguard
First Aid
Klaire DeVos has been working as a counselor and lifeguard at Forest Lake for several years. During the school year, she works as a Middle School Choir Director in Clear Lake, IA. She loves spending time outdoors and singing. Camping is one of her biggest passions, so it’s no surprise that she loves working at Forest Lake!
Hannah O'Dell
Cabin Leader
Lifeguard
Hannah is the youngest of four children and currently a sophomore at Northwestern college. Currently, she is studying to become a social work major. She loves working with children and others in any way possible. She accredits this to her mother who has a huge heart. Some of her hobbies consist of reading, photography, and spending time in nature. 2023 will be her 5th year with Forest Lake. Before becoming a permanent staff, Hannah helped at Forest Lake for many years with the First Baptist Church from Bedford, IA. At camp, She is a cabin leader and a lifeguard. Hannah cannot wait to get to know each one of the campers that she will meet at camp and get to reconnect with those that have been before.