The UMCRM Association had the joy of distributing $1.7 million in Ministry Impact Grants last year, funding 68 United Methodist camp/retreat ministry projects across the U.S. with a focus on future sustainability.
Learn more about the 2023 Ministry Impact Grants
We continue to receive reports of completed projects and we celebrate the hope and expanded ministry reach represented in these stories. Congratulations to these centers that successfully accomplished their grant-funded projects. These updates increase the safety and sustainability of the ministries.
Pine Creek (IN) - Bathroom Renovation
The volunteer team that worked on this project bonded into a cohesive group that will continue to work together on future projects. They gutted two “gang style” bathrooms in the camp’s 60-year-old, most frequently used building and remodeled it to provide eight individual upgraded bathrooms, each with a sink, commode, and shower. The space is now so much more aesthetically pleasing and easy to operate and maintain. Guest groups are thrilled with the upgrade. According to one patron, Pine Creek now has "some of the best bathrooms in the ministry"!
Blue Lake Camp (AL) - Insulation Replacement
Blue Lake’s largest and most used gymnasium had an original ceiling of hung insulation that was torn, falling, and allowing moisture to make it into the building. The grant enabled replacement of the old insulation with a spray foam insulation, enhancing the building’s appearance, solving moisture issues, and decreasing the energy needed to heat and cool this building.
Camp Lake Stephens (MS) - Pool Pavilion and Bathrooms
The new open-air pavilion with bathrooms opens up countless opportunities to utilize the pool and recreation area at Camp Lake Stephens in new ways. It also helps address three of the biggest limitations at the camp: lack of public bathrooms, limited protected space from heat / weather, and very few flat spaces. Camp Lake Stephens achieved the project’s goals for functionality and safety while including features that reflect the camp’s Creation Care values: All LED lighting and on-demand electric water heaters will draw very little power. And areas around the pavilion that will not be able to be mowed have been reseeded with native grasses in order to help stabilize the soil and help the space better blend in with the natural beauty of the site.
At The Lake Ministries (Western PA) - Boat Engine Installation
Last summer, diesel mechanic technicians installed a new engine/transmission, keel coolers, and a new propeller for the “JoAnn M”, the boat that is home to At The Lake Ministries. The new powertrain allows for a quieter environment for guests aboard the Passenger Vessel JoAnn M. Additionally, concerns about reliability and major repairs anticipated on the 44-year-old engine and transmission have been replaced with the confidence provided by the new equipment. This investment assures that At The Lake Ministries may reliably host many charters serving those with disabilities and special needs, for decades to come.
Camp Uskichitto (LA) - Septic System Replacement
“No future is quite as uncertain as one with unflushable toilets.” Without this generous grant, Camp Uskichitto had experienced a sudden, dire system failure that jeopardized the future of the camp. Now every flush at camp is yet another echo of loving strangers saying, 'We are with you! Keep spreading that Gospel.' The new, comprehensive and modern septic system replaced three antiquated systems to serve campers, staff, and guests in the entire south side of the campus. This gift to a small camp they’d likely never heard of, in a town they didn't know existed, to fix a septic system the grantors will likely never see, was a sign to Camp Uskichitto that Someone is looking out for their little camp. Thanks be to God.
