The United Methodist Camp and Retreat Ministries (UMCRM) community has long recognized the profound impact that summer staff have on the life and vitality of our camps and retreats. These young adults bring passion, energy, and fresh ideas to our ministries, making them invaluable members of our teams. As we look toward the future, we see these young people being the next generation of camp and retreat leaders who will shape our collective ministry. Right now, we have the opportunity to lift up these leaders and strengthen their connection to these holy spaces that God has called us to steward. As part of this effort, we are excited to share a new initiative designed to deepen their experience and connection within the broader UMCRM network: the National Summer Staff Exchange Program.
What is the National Summer Staff Exchange Program?
Scheduled to launch with a pilot in the Summer of 2025 and full implementation planned for Summer 2026, the National Summer Staff Exchange Program is designed to broaden the horizons of summer staff by connecting them to the wider UMCRM community. This program will allow participants to work at different camps across the country, experiencing the diversity and shared mission of our ministries firsthand.
Through this exchange, summer staff will have the opportunity to be a part of the camp experience at a variety of locations. It’s more than just a chance to travel—it’s an invitation to become part of a larger movement, helping them see their role as integral to a collective ministry effort. By the end of their summer exchange experience, these young leaders will have a broader understanding of the impact they can have in camp and retreat ministries and how their unique skills and passions can contribute to meaningful, lifelong work.
Why is This Initiative Important?
This initiative is a key part of UMCRM’s strategic vision to create a comprehensive professional development pathway for students, non-executive staff, and leaders from diverse backgrounds. The program offers a unique opportunity for summer staff to work at different camps, experiencing new ministry settings and approaches that broaden their understanding of the field. By being exposed to different environments and methods, participants will gain a deeper appreciation for the shared mission and values that unite our UMCRM network. This broader perspective not only enhances their professional skills but also strengthens their connection to the larger camp and retreat ministries community.
The National Summer Staff Exchange Program is designed to do more than just develop skills—it’s about inspiring young leaders to see themselves as part of a larger movement. When participants see how their work at their home camp connects to the bigger picture, they’re more likely to envision a future within our community. By June 2027, our goal is that at least 75% of non-executive association members will report improved career development opportunities. With this program, we are laying the groundwork to achieve that goal by nurturing a sense of purpose and commitment among young staff, encouraging them to pursue meaningful, lifelong careers in camp and retreat ministries.
How UMCRM Members Can Get Involved
To successfully launch the National Summer Staff Exchange Program, we need input and collaboration from a diverse range of UMCRM sites. This fall, we are assembling a task force to design the program framework. We invite members who are passionate about developing young leaders and who are committed to enriching the camp experience to consider joining this task force.
The task force will be responsible for:
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Logistical Coordination: Designing the platform and processes for site exchanges, including participant matching, housing, and scheduling.
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Participant Support: Establishing guidelines and resources to ensure a positive and enriching experience for all involved.
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Program Goals: Defining the core goals and outcomes of the exchange program to align with UMCRM’s strategic vision.
Task force members will also have the unique opportunity to serve as pilot sites for the first year of the program. This hands-on involvement will provide crucial insights and help shape the program’s success.
Why Your Involvement Matters
The task force’s work will lay the foundation for a transformative experience that can shape the future of United Methodist Camp and Retreat Ministries. As a task force member, you’ll be contributing directly to the growth and development of our young leaders and helping to build a sustainable future for our ministries.
Your camp’s unique perspective is vital. Each of our sites has something special to offer, and bringing together a diverse group ensures that the exchange program reflects the full richness of the UMCRM community. By participating, you’re not only enhancing the professional development of summer staff but also strengthening the connections that bind our network together.
Next Steps: Join the Task Force
If you are interested in being part of this exciting initiative and serving on the task force, please reach out to UMCRM’s Director, Jessica Gamaché at jessica.gamache@umcrm.org. We encourage participation from camps of all sizes and locations to create a truly diverse and representative task force.
Together, we can provide our summer staff with an experience that broadens their horizons, deepens their commitment to camp and retreat ministries, and inspires them to consider this work as a meaningful career path. Let’s build something extraordinary, starting now.
Join us in creating a brighter future for UMCRM and the young leaders who will shape it.
For more information or to express interest in joining the task force,
please contact jessica.gamache@umcrm.org