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Hello Friends,
The challenges brought about by the pandemic and its aftermath have not spared United Church Camps, Inc. (UCCI), much like many other organizations. As we stepped into 2023, we launched our "Return to Sacred Ground" participation campaign. Our aim was to warmly welcome more guests back to the cherished sites of Cedar Valley, Daycholah Center, and Moon Beach.
Additionally, we've been proactively addressing costs, staffing, and expenses while evaluating how to optimize the use of our sites and programs for the benefit of our guests and to strengthen our financial performance. Each program is scrutinized to ensure it aligns with our mission: "Love God, all others, and the earth by providing sanctuary, practicing hospitality, and performing ministry."
Recently, four remarkable experiences have reinforced our commitment to this mission. I had the privilege of spending time with "The More Than Project" at Moon Beach. This was a camp filled with mothers and caregivers whose lives are directly impacted by autism. Listening to their stories and witnessing the joy they found connecting with each other and being in nature at Moon Beach was truly transformative. These guests are genuine warriors, and the opportunity for UCCI to provide them with care and respite was a blessing.
I also had the pleasure of being part of Memory Camp at Moon Beach. Founded by Rev. John and Prof. Sue McFadden, this camp offers profoundly positive experiences for individuals living with dementia and their loved ones in a natural setting. It's the only camp of its kind in the U.S.
At Daycholah Center, I enjoyed conversation with the Fall Trialogue, a group from the Union of Evangelical Churches in Germany, the Reformed Church of Honduras, and Wisconsin Conference UCC staff. We delved into the challenges posed by global migration, underscoring the diverse and meaningful conversations taking place on our sites.
Finally, while at Cedar Valley this week, I was enchanted by the laughter of young people and the plinking sound of a piano played by a school group from Saint Joan Antida School in Milwaukee. I couldn't help but notice the impact of green spaces, safety, nourishing food, and the opportunity to bond with friends in a secure and nurturing environment.
These encounters underscore the unique resources that each UCCI site possesses to breathe life into our mission. However, it's crucial to acknowledge that our participation numbers in 2023 have not met our expectations at any of our sites. Beyond participation, we also require financial support.
During the recent Active Adult Adventurers Retreat, I shared some of these stories and our need for ongoing financial support. The group took up the challenge and, in less than a week, we doubled our number of sustaining donors.
I implore you to consider how you can support the things you hold most dear. Prayerfully, UCCI is one of those things. Whether through participating in an event, making a one-time donation, a sustaining gift at a level meaningful to you, or including UCCI in your financial planning, your contribution will have a meaningful impact in advancing our mission and preserving these sacred places.
Thank you for your consideration and support.
With peace and blessings,
Jim
executivedirector@ucci.org
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