IRS Approved 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization
Whispering Pines welcomes veterans, military, first responders, special needs groups, seniors, conservation, youth, and religious organizations.
Fish, canoe, hike, or hunt in season. We offer day camps, retreats, and outdoor educational sessions.
"We are sometimes faced with tragic challenges where Whispering Pines can be a special retreat for those who may need to embrace visible or invisible issues with the help of getting back to nature." — Carl Becker
The Schafly family of Carlyle, IL donates the property to the Boy Scouts Kaskaskia Council.
Vernon Joy purchases the property for $7,750 and deeds it to the Centralia Foundation. The camp becomes Camp Joy and serves organizations for over 75 years.
Greater St. Louis Area Council votes to discontinue Camp Joy. The property reverts to the Centralia Foundation. A team meets to discuss continuing the legacy.
Centralia Foundation entrusts Carl and Taylor Becker to purchase the property. An irrevocable trust is established. Whispering Pines officially opens.
Events grow from 30 to 94+. First Wounded Warrior Project gathering. Renovations accelerate with volunteer support.
New maintenance building, roof replacements, cabin showers. Derby in the Pines, Memorial Day ceremonies, and youth programs continue growing.
Powered by an army of volunteers and generous partner organizations.
Co-founder, Advisor & RN
Capital Improvements Liaison
Veterans Support
Community Partner
Veterans Programs
Youth Programs
Youth Leadership
Veterans Support
100% of donations go to upkeep and improvement. We are entirely volunteer-run.
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