Celebrating Five More Ministry Impact Projects:

Alton L. Collins (OR), Aldersgate (NY), Egan (OK),

Lake Tahoe (CA), and East Bay (IL)

 

Last spring, the UMCRM Association had the joy of distributing $2.5 million in Ministry Impact Grants, funding 86 different United Methodist camp/retreat ministry projects with a focus on future sustainability.

 

Learn more about the 2022 Ministry Impact Grants

 

UMCRM continues to celebrate the vision, hope, and expanded ministry reach represented in the projects undertaken by Ministry Impact Grant recipients. More to highlight in future weeks and months!

Solar Array at Alton L.Collins Retreat Center (Oregon)

This grant inspired additional gifts which together funded a solar array at the Alton L. Collins Retreat Center. The panels will produce approximately 150 Kwh per year, making a significant difference in the center’s operation over the life of this electricity-producing solar array. The energy bill savings will be applied to staffing and programming needs for long term sustainability.

Leadership Training & Missions Program Development

at Aldersgate Camp & Retreat Center (NY)

The last year has been a time of growth for Aldersgate, with summer program growth of 32%. The Ministry Impact Grant assisted in the creation of a Leadership-in-Training program and a Mission Program, resulting in campership growth and retention, re-engagement of former staff, and new ways for the ministry to serve meaningfully in the community.

Water Project at Camp Egan (OK)

Egan was losing 50,000 gallons of precious water each month due to leaks in pipelines installed in the 1940s. Hard, rocky, impenetrable soil drained so quickly that the leaks were virtually impossible to locate. This grant enabled Egan to match other donations and foundation funding to trench and lay new, larger, commercial Pex water lines throughout the facility. These new lines will accommodate future planned growth, allow reallocation of funds toward deferred maintenance and upkeep, and better steward the Cherokee County water supply. In the long run, Egan will be able to ensure an attractive and well-maintained facility for ministry with future generations of campers and guests.

Site Safety and Hospitality Upgrades

at Lake Tahoe Retreat Center (CA)

Removal of dangerous and overcrowded trees has made the site safer, mitigated property damage risk, and provided more space for outdoor games. Solar lighting along pathways enhances guest safety while providing a nice, soft glow, creating shadows of wildlife as they wander through the site. Guests love them! A new electric fireplace in the gathering/worship area creates an improved indoor program space, replacing the hazards of the old wood-burning fireplace that was no longer serviceable. Now the campfire experience (including roasting s’mores) is once again available to retreat groups. Upgraded wifi provides guest groups with far better stability and coverage for meetings, worship, videos and presentations. 

New Docks at East Bay (IL)

East Bay Camp used grant funds to replace old, broken docks. The updated docks allow the camp to anchor boats including kayaks, canoes, and pontoons in a manner that allows easier access and increased safety. The grant also funded the purchase of new, safe swim lines and paddleboards to expand waterfront programming options for tiered program progression. There is now a 'boat in' option for Sunday morning worship during the summer, enabling new outreach to many camp neighbors.