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Greetings Friends,
I am writing in the afterglow of our recent weekend at the WCUCC Annual Meeting. This event is a crucial time for UCCI, offering a wonderful opportunity to engage with WCUCC clergy and delegates and to interact with guests in the exhibit hall. The rich conversations and connections made during this time are incredibly rewarding and energizing.
My goals for our time at the annual meeting were threefold, provide a clear and accurate update as to the status and challenges ahead for UCCI, provide a hopeful picture of the good things that are happening at each of our sites, and, stress the importance of fostering a deep and abiding relationship between UCCI and the local churches of the WCUCC.
During my presentation, we offered an online live poll by having participants scan a QR code to answer three questions about UCCI: "Do you believe outdoor ministry is vital in the life of our local churches?" "Is your congregation active and engaged with camp and retreat opportunities?" "Do you know where to find information about our sites and events?" A follow-up review of those who took the survey confirmed my expectations: UCCI and outdoor ministry are highly valued within the WCUCC, but the strength of congregations' relationships with UCCI varies. While most respondents knew where to find information about UCCI, many conversations revealed that this information isn't widely visible in local churches. This highlights the ongoing work needed to strengthen our connections with the local churches of the WCUCC, which is a core mission of UCCI.
We face the challenge of balancing the demand for UCCI’s services with a sustainable operating model. Key off-season decisions between November 2024 and May 2025 will ensure our expenses align with revenue. A strong fourth-quarter appeal is essential to meet our fundraising goals. For more details about our finances and mission, our 2023 Annual Report is now available.
Despite these challenges, I remain incredibly hopeful! We are seeing modest increases in summer camp registrations at Moon Beach, and Cedar Valley is experiencing a breakthrough year and is forecasted to be modestly profitable in 2024. Most importantly, survey results and personal conversations highlight how deeply you value our sites and outdoor ministry. With continued transparency and earnest effort, we will find that sweet spot!
I close by reminding you that it is NOT too late to register for a summer camp experience or any of our 2024 events. Room is available in three of five Moon Beach family camps and most youth summer camps at Daycholah Center. Cedar Valley has a steady rhythm of events. Look ahead to September and October and register for your desired event soon. I trust that if you ‘Unplug and Reconnect’ you too might hear our still-speaking God in new and different ways!
With blessings,
Jim
executivedirector@ucci.org
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