News Release

MILFORD — When school lets out for summer, many educators take a well-deserved break. But for Ida Schmucker, a teaching assistant at Milford School, summer means putting on an apron and working the kitchen at Camp Alexander Mack.

Ida Schmucker cooking at Camp Mack. Photo provided by Ida Schmucker.

Schmucker, a single mother of two, balances her work as a school para-educator with her summer job at Camp Mack, a Christian camp and retreat center nestled along Lake Waubee in Milford.

“I needed a summer job,” she said, “and one of my coworkers suggested Camp Mack.

Now in her second summer working at Camp Mack, Schmucker finds joy in more than just feeding hungry kids.

“I enjoy making things they love to eat,” she said. “Sometimes, we serve family-style, and it’s especially fun if there’s kids I recognize.”

One camper, whom she had previously counseled during a spring break program, returned each day for a hug.

“She was so sweet,” Schmucker recalled.

Beyond her work with children, Schmucker has taken on a major personal project: building a new future home through Habitat for Humanity.

She’s currently over 100 hours into the 250 required volunteer hours, contributing both on build sites and in the Habitat ReStore.

“I love working with wood and especially painting,” she said. “I’ve made so many friends just from volunteering; it’s one of the most meaningful parts of this journey.”

Schmucker first heard about Habitat for Humanity from a co-worker at Milford Elementary. Already familiar with the program, she jumped in with enthusiasm.

“I was like, ‘I’m going to volunteer,’” she said. “And then maybe once their applications open, I’ll get one in and I was selected.”

For her, securing a Habitat home isn’t just about owning property, it’s about stability.

“I want something permanent for my kids,” she explained. “I’ve always been renting, and I just want a permanent home for my kids.”

She continued, “Right now, they share a room and sleep on bunk beds. They’re excited to finally have their own space.”

Pending final approval, Schmucker’s home will be built near Milford — a location she personally suggested to Habitat organizers.

Originally from Wisconsin and formerly Amish, Schmucker decided to stay in Indiana after what was supposed to be a temporary visit.

“I liked the area and the people,” she recalled. “And so I moved down here.”

Between teaching, summer cooking, parenting, and volunteering, her weekends are often full.

“There are times when (Camp Mack) asks, ‘hey, can you come in this weekend?’” she said. “Other times, I’m helping at Habitat on Saturdays.”

Still, she emphasizes the importance of self-care and maintaining a cheerful outlook. Despite her packed schedule, Schmucker stays energized by the sense of purpose her work brings.

“Always have a cheerful, welcoming attitude,” she said. “And take care of yourself so you can be your best self while you’re at it.”

Asked what advice she’d give to someone considering volunteering or applying for a Habitat home, Schmucker has simple encouragement: “Absolutely do it. The people are friendly and helpful; it’s a welcoming environment and the work you do really matters.”

With roots now firmly planted in the community she serves, Schmucker looks forward to watching her new home take shape and to continuing her work with the kids and causes she cares so deeply about.

“It’s busy,” she said, “but it’s worth it.”