Meet Tim Strickland, Taylor’s Dad and Director of Christ in the Smokies

Name: Tim Strickland
Role: Taylor’s Dad; Director of Christ in the Smokies (a TSLF ministry partner); Passage to Manhood Camp Host
Known for: His outgoing, friendly, positive spirit

What others are saying about Tim:

Tim is always far more concerned about the well-being of others than himself, and is one of the most positive people I’ve ever met! Tim’s high energy, easy laugh, and love for others combined with great management skills make him a leader that people want to follow. He is a rock-solid, godly man who invests all he has into the welfare of others. How could you not love this guy?
~Darrell Schoenig

Tim serves selflessly. He is primarily interested in the well being and growth of the campers. Tim is friendly, engaging, welcoming, and a trusted leader. There was a time at Highlands when I became stressed over some logistical issue. I brought my concern to Tim. He was calm, non-judgmental, and encouraging to me. Through Tim’s response to me, I was able to back off. He quickly helped me to see the bigger, more real picture. Tim is a good, non-intrusive, encouraging leader. Everyone knows Tim is in charge, but he does not require acknowledgement to bolster his role. Tim is a pleasure to serve under. I love Tim. I love his desire for the good. I love his respect and care and love for Toni. I love his love for the other team members. I love his love for each and every camper. I love his love and appreciation for the good folks at the Retreat Center. I admire Tim. 
~Mike Haddorff

Tim and I have been close friends for 50 years. I consider him the brother I never had. Tim has dedicated his life to working with men and youth through sports and through his church. He has a passion for sharing about his adventures with his son Taylor and how they grew their faith while serving together in many different ministries and on mission trips. Tim is a humble leader, truly devoted to the CITS experience. One of his greatest joys is to witness those who attend CITS learn, bond and grow in their faith, leaving with a new level of purpose for life as Christian men and stronger relationships as father and son.
~Greg Dyson

Tim is joyful and passionate! He is selfless in his commitment to the volunteers and father-son attendees. I won’t forget our time at the spud gun field when Tim shared his story about Taylor’s life. I felt the deep pain and also the joy of the impact of so many lives touched by the  good that came from tragedy. Tim is real and authentic. He deeply cares about each person and understands their struggles. His enthusiasm and passion are palpable, and he drives you to be a more joyful servant for the Lord. He is simply a great leader, a good man, and an amazing servant. 
~Jim Zalenski

Tim is outgoing, energetic, optimistic, passionate, funny, and determined. Throughout the year, Tim seeks to identify fathers and sons who might benefit from a Christ in the Smokies experience. In between camps, Tim looks for ways to improve the CITS experience. Tim is willing to do whatever it takes to make camp successful. He is deeply invested year-round to make sure every detail of camp will be valuable. He has a strong desire to be part of a volunteer team that truly wants to serve and have fun. And from his first phone calls with campers, to preparing and then welcoming them to camp, Tim is genuinely all in. He wants to know each person’s story and truly desires the best for others. The volunteers at CITS all know each other well. They have served together, worshipped together, and are intimately involved in each other’s lives. There are funny and endearing stories of them bunking down each night during camp after a busy day of adventure. There is a goodwill and friendship among these men that we often hear our campers talk about. It is real. It is authentic, and it is contagious. 
 ~Toni Strickland