Meet the Staff
John Lyon - Executive Director
John Lyon comes to Camp Olson YMCA with 30 years of experience in the non-profit world, previously serving at the YMCA of Florida’s First Coast where he was the VP of Camp & Branch Operations for the previous 6 years. While there, John increased residential camp revenue, expanded enrollment and added numerous capital improvements. Prior to YMCA of Florida’s First Coast, John also worked for the Greater Kingsport Family YMCA, the CHASCO Family YMCA, YMCA Camp McConnell and YMCA Camp Twin Lakes. John holds a Bachelor’s degree from Western Governors University and is currently working on a Master’s degree from the same university.
“I am honored and excited to join the Camp Olson YMCA family and to be a part of the amazing community of Longville. Camp Olson is a very special place that provides exceptional camp experiences that bring people together to create a sense of belonging and community. I am truly
looking forward to working alongside our dedicated staff team, the Board of Directors and community leaders to continue making a positive impact in the lives of those we serve.”
Demi Kapler - Camp Director
Demi’s roots, though from Rochester, were firmly planted among the pines at Camp Olson since 1994. After years as a family and youth camper, Demi worked as a counselor and Corral Director from 2010-2014 and graduated from the University of Minnesota – Duluth with degrees in Psychology and Outdoor Education. She then spent 5 years in Utah where she continued to gain valuable skills and experience in her work as a field-guide, program coordinator for special needs youth, and case manager for youth and their families. While out west, Demi also spent 1,000 miles solo backpacking the Pacific Crest Trail and obtained her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Equine Assisted Mental Health from Prescott College. Demi joined Camp Olson’s full-time team in the Spring of 2019 as the Assistant Director. Demi has transitioned to the role of Associate Executive Director and is committed to Sharing the Spirit of the Northwoods and carrying on the Camp Olson Legacy.
Amy Johnson - Office Manager
Amy has worked at Camp Olson YMCA since 2004 as the Office Manager and Healthcare Coordinator. She had worked as a nurse for a number of years in specialty clinics and general practice and provides support to our nurses during the week and answers questions at registration time to assure continuity of care. Amy resides on Girl Lake with her husband, son, and daughter.
“Some of my favorite calls in the office are the ‘return families’ who are sending their children to the camp that they fell in love with as a child. They are excited for their kids to get their own stories from camp. The 2nd and 3rd generation campers are a testament to Camp Olson’s quality programming. And as we all hope they’ll make their own memories and lifelong friendships networked out of the magic of laughing and playing in nature.”
Margret Windebank - Camp Director
Margret, orginally from Maple Grove, began coming to camp at 8 years old, and continued to attend year after year, eventually becoming a CIT. She then spent 8 summers as a seasonal staff in roles including Counselor, LIT & CIT Leader, Beach Director, Leadership Development Coordinator and Counselor Coordinator. Before, transistioning to the role of Assistant Director, Margret worked as as a Special Education Paraprofessional in the Walker- Hackensack Akeley School District. If you couldn’t tell, Margret has a passion for working with youth and enjoys going on adventures with her 3 dogs and family. She is excited to now be a part of the full-time camp staff and she is currently finishing a degree focused on helping children with special needs.
“Camp has played a vital role in my extended family for over 50 years. I am deeply committed to the mission of camp and look forward to working in partnership with the staff to share the spirit of the northwoods with youth and their families.”
Nick Schreck - Facilities Manager
Nick Schreck is originally from Fort Mitchell, Kentucky. While only going as a camper once when he was a child, at 16 he was convinced to work a summer at YMCA Camp Ernst in Burlington, Kentucky. Instantly getting hooked on the camp lifestyle. Spending every summer working as a seasonal staff. From working
on the ropes course to eventually being leadership staff. Nick left the camp environment for several years perusing other careers working at DCCH Center for Children and Families where he would be helping foster children go through therapy, schooling, and daily living. Then moving on to be a Pipe fitter/welder for Local 392. Making his way back to the YMCA organization in 2024 with Camp Ernst and the YMCA of Greater Cincinnati doing maintenance.
“I’m extremely excited to be apart of the Camp Olson family. Camps have become a huge part of my life, I would not be the person I am today without them. The friends you make at camp last a lifetime and I want kids to have the same experience and opportunities.”
