CAMP AND CONFERENCE CENTERS

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Each Methodist conference, Baptist state convention, Episcopal Diocese, and other similar faith-based organizational structure usually has a camp and conference center program. These programs are vital to the energy of the denomination because major personal changes take place in these recreational settings: young people learn critical life skills, meet persons who may become their life partners, become Christians, grow closer to God, hear God's call to the ministry, and many other significant events shaping the remainder of their lives. These facilities allow the time, solitude, and setting for similar impacts on young adults and adults.

In addition, conference centers provide creative spaces for church gatherings, conferences, weddings, reunions, picnics, baptisms, youth rallies, and a variety of other events important in the lives of individuals, churches, parishes, and groups.

Many camps and conference centers operate on fees charged for camps and programs. This schedule usually does not allow for sufficient funds for adequate maintenance, repair, and expansion.

New meeting centers, complex rope courses, larger dining halls, updated cabins, technology, off-site events, staff training, and special entertainment are normally out of the question unless the organization has an endowment for these items.

Carefully crafted comprehensive campaigns designed to strengthen annual funds, secure major gifts, and provide for and recognize planned gifts are necessary for camp and conference centers to thrive and continue to be a very relevant part of the life of the church and its members.

Cargill Associates has extensive experience in faith-based camp and conference center feasibility studies and campaigns. They understand these special programs and their unique needs.