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Greetings Friends,
I firmly believe that our Creator has formed us in the Divine image and has given us the breath of life. Although we enjoy/suffer ‘free-will and self-determination’ our God continues a life-long effort to draw us into a deeper and more loving relationship with Godself, others, and ourselves. I also firmly believe that when we immerse ourselves in nature, and sacred spaces, we are more fully present to God, others, and ourselves. Our sites, and outdoor ministry in general, afford transformational experiences as a result.
Here’s what is important.
Non-profit organizations, like UCCI, do not float the budget with business revenue alone. In most non-profit circles, roughly 20-25% of an operating budget must come from unrestricted donations. For UCCI, that equates to roughly $425,000 annually. Although 2024 brought a patchwork of development work, between the Moon Beach Cabin foundation project, our annual support from the WI Conference UCC, and our ‘Roots & Wings’ campaign, we received $470,000.
Now, half of that is restricted to the cabin foundation project but, I am encouraged in that it demonstrates that our development capacity is essentially where it needs to be. We will need more future focus on operational and capital reserve funding, but our overall numbers are solid.
With all that said, “THANK YOU, and BLESS YOU” for your generous support throughout 2024! We achieved our adjusted ‘Roots’ goal of $100,000 dollars and I am especially grateful for the local churches that responded to our fourth quarter call for financial partnership! I recognize that in some cases, individual members stepped up to make those church donations happen.
Our goal this year is to continue shaping what our long-term development work will look like. Ideally, our efforts will have more of a year-round focus, local churches might plan a modest donation line item in budgets, and UCCI might secure additional higher capacity donors. May all those elements allow our 2024 roots to take wings in 2025!
I close by encouraging you to investigate opportunities to participate in an event, retreat, or summer camp. All 2025 events are open for registration. If you have questions or problems with registration, please call the respective site for assistance. Consider planning your own personal stay or gathering in sacred ground. Information and access for events or donations may be found through our web site at UCCI.org
With deep appreciation and blessings,
Jim
executivedirector@ucci.org
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Women's Wild Winter Weekend
Women’s Wild Winter Weekend
Feb 20 - 23 2025 and Feb 27 - 2 March 2025
Calling all “Wild Women” for a wonderful weekend retreat! WWWW offers moments of personal reflection, singing, crafts, group activities, and enjoying fellowship time. Indulge in self-care at our Comfort Corner, browse the Silent Auction, savor the delights of our fabulous Saturday night banquet (featuring a chocolate fountain bar), join in uplifting worship, and, of course, relish ample time to immerse yourself in the quiet yet wild beauty of Moon Beach in winter.
Choose from arriving on Friday, or make it a long weekend and arrive on Thursday. Roommate requests are available when registering.
Cost $290, $360 for Thursday arrival.
You may also call us at 715-479-8255 to register.
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Join Us This Summer at Camp Daycholah
Camp Daycholah is thrilled to kick off its second summer with an exciting new event: Alumni (and Family) Weekend! This special weekend brings together past campers, staff, and their families to celebrate a shared love of camp. Reconnect with old friends, create new memories, and enjoy classic camp activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, arts and crafts, and archery. Explore how Daycholah Center has grown and changed over the years while reliving the joy of your favorite home away from home.
For those seeking a traditional summer camp experience, the Camp Daycholah weeks are the heart of the season. Week 1 and Week 2 are full, action-packed weeks offering campers of all ages the chance to dive into swimming, archery, kayaking, crafts, and more. Week 3 is slightly shorter, just 3 nights, perfect for families navigating busy summer schedules while still delivering all the camp magic in a condensed format. Week 4 now features, Night Owl (grades 9-12), Nighthawk (grades 5-8), and Nightingale (grades 2-4).
As summer unfolds, a wide variety of camps offer something for everyone. From Tenderfoot, a perfect first camp experience for younger kids, to high-energy themed programs like Sail Camp, Con Camp, and Night Owl, each week is packed with adventure. Families can make unforgettable memories at the 4th of July Family and Friends Camp, while teens can jumpstart their leadership journey in the Counselor in Training program. Arts lovers will thrive at MADD Camp, and nature enthusiasts will enjoy outdoor exploration in every camp offering.
Whether you’re swimming in the sparkling waters of Green Lake, creating masterpieces in the craft cabin, or stargazing by the campfire, Camp Daycholah is a place for all ages to discover connection, joy, and inspiration. Join us for a summer of laughter, adventure, and lifelong memories!
Guided by Rev. Jeremy Hylen, our Camp Director, the Daycholah community eagerly looks forward to welcoming new campers. Join us for a summer of growth, camaraderie, and lifelong memories amidst the natural beauty of Green Lake.
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Youth Faith Formation 3
Youth Faith Formation 3
Feb 28 - March 2nd, 2025
Faith is a journey. We often have questions along the way… Is my faith fully formed? Am I on the journey? Where have I come from? Where am I going? How do I get there?
Join us for a weekend of faith and team building. We will explore what it means to be the church and how that commitment continues to evolve. At Youth Faith Formation, middle- and high-school-aged youth connect with others taking steps along their faith journey. These retreats are appropriate for confirmation classes but are open to all youth who want to explore their faith with other youth and supportive adults. The weekend includes plenty of fun relaxing with friends, playing games, and the Daycholah Center dance party!
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Maker's Retreat
Maker's Retreat
March 27-30th, 2025
Whether you scrapbook, knit, quilt, make jewelry, crochet, sew, use a Cricut, make cards, or have another creative hobby, we invite you to join this creative community at Daycholah Center on Green Lake. Choose to arrive on Thursday or Friday afternoon.
Thursday arrival: $420 | Friday arrival: $310
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Instructor-led Open Art Studio 1
with Lorin Willey
Mar 01 - 02 2025 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
This workshop is designed to improve and enhance your artistic skills within your preferred medium. Oil, watercolor, pastel, and acrylic are all welcome. Bring your ideas, your inspiration, and your current work in progress. Discover knowledge and skills that will drive you to new levels of achievement.
Lorin is an internationally recognized, award-winning artist known for his skill, passion, and extensive knowledge as a painter and instructor. He has been a featured speaker at several major art organizations in Wisconsin, has traveled extensively, and his works are in prominent collections in several countries. Most recently, he has been represented by the Michael DeLind Gallery in Milwaukee, the Edgewood Orchard Gallery in Door County, and the Lorica Gallery in Andover, MA.
Studio time is from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. each day. A supply list will be sent before the workshop. Lunch is included.
Commuter and overnight options are available. Cost: $135 commuter, $270 overnight. You may also call us at 262-629-9202 to register.
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Needle Felting – Blue Bird Workshop with Justine Heinrichs
Mar 08 2025 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Celebrate the arrival of spring at Cedar Valley by immersing yourself in the art of needle felting with instructor Justine Heinrichs. In this workshop, you’ll create a charming 8″x12″ bluebird using needle felting techniques, transforming wool fibers into a soft, sculpted masterpiece. Perfect for beginners and seasoned crafters alike, needle felting has quickly become a favorite for those seeking a creative, meditative outlet for stress relief.
Join us for a fun-filled day of learning and crafting, and feel free to bring a friend along to share in the experience! All supplies will be provided, and a delicious lunch is included to keep you energized throughout this inspiring workshop.
Cost $160 - You may also call us at 262-629-9202 to register.
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The Hundred-Acre Haven apartment at Cedar Valley is a private three-bedroom, two-full-bath living space on the lower level of the main lodge at Cedar Valley Retreat Center.
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Welcome to The Log House, a charming piece of living history nestled in a serene setting with breathtaking views! According to township records, this historic log house, estimated to have been built in 1873, offers a unique blend of authenticity and modern comfort.
Learn more >
Book the Log House on Airbnb
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UCCI Mission Statement
We will love God, All Others, and the Earth by providing sanctuary, practicing hospitality, and performing ministry.
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Land Acknowledgment
UCCI’s campuses, Cedar Valley, Daycholah Center, and Moon Beach are located on the ancestral homelands of the Ho-Chunk, Menominee, and Ojibwa Nations. We acknowledge these First Nations communities who have stewarded this land throughout the generations and pay respect to their elders past and present.
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