Earlier this year, The United Methodist Camp and Retreat Ministry Association announced that a major donor contributed more than 1 million dollars to strengthen United Methodist Camp and Retreat Ministries across the denomination. The donor recognizes the unique power of this ministry to change lives, inspire young people and adults in their giftedness, and create deeper connections with Christ, community and creation. We are thrilled to share that the grant request from the Susquehanna Conference is one of the those chosen to receive funding.
The grant must focus on an initiative that “elevates future sustainability and lasting impact of your camp and retreat ministry”. Here in the Susquehanna Conference the Camp and Retreat Ministry Board is now working with Kaleidoscope —one of the most highly regarded consultants for non-profit and religiously affiliated camp and retreat centers in the country. The board has been discussing the need for a consultation to build upon the good work that has been done in recent years to improve the ministry and its reach. The grant comes at the perfect time. Kaleidoscope excels at helping ministries assess a wide range of factors that contribute to vitality, effectiveness and missional impact long-term.
The consultation and strategic planning process go deeper in examining key areas to strengthen the overall ministry. One example is mission clarity, focus, and specific outcomes and changes identified as central to the purpose of our camp and retreat ministry. Some other areas of assessment include leadership models and preparation, participant and guest analysis, church and community needs, financial health and sustainability, facilities and programs, staffing, and much more. Kaleidoscope has worked with hundreds of faith-based and nonprofit camp and retreat centers and programs. They bring a wealth of information about innovative possibilities and important milestones to reach for long-term sustainability and greater missional impact. They are very familiar with United Methodist Camp and Retreat Ministries, which adds to their insight in helping us do our own planning for the present and the future.
“The board is excited to engage in this process! We are committed to exploring opportunities to grow the reach and impact of our camp and retreat ministry. We strive to understand more fully and prayerfully discern how we can best serve those in our communities,” said Kristin Hoover, Chair of the Board of Camp and Retreat Ministry.
What a blessing it is to have such a visionary donor who is gifting us and many others with a real opportunity through the Ministry Impact Grant! Thanks to all of you, also, for your prayers as the board seeks God’s guidance in steps that will “elevate sustainability and the lasting impact of Camp and Retreat Ministry” here in the Susquehanna Conference.
