Summer Updates & Fall Preview

 

Greetings Friends,


Summer is rolling along– we are beyond the Fourth of July, beyond Summerfest, beyond EAA Air Adventure, and now into the Wisconsin State Fair. These are my traditional markers as summer progresses toward Labor Day. It seems that as the years pass, these markers pass way too quickly. And, unfortunately, my ability to attend any of them seems to get harder and harder.


For UCCI, the summer is passing quickly. Cedar Valley continues in a modest rhythm of activities and rentals although recently we have faced some expensive facility repairs. At Moon Beach, we have hosted two weeks of Camp AweSum family camps, and five weeks of traditional family camp–all with several fewer staff members than in previous years. Two more weeks of Camp AweSum come next and the summer season at Moon Beach is behind us.


In case you missed last month's news, our Managing Director at Daycholah Center resigned just before the start of summer camp. Although the departure was unexpected, we quickly adapted, and our dedicated year-round and summer staff helped us move forward under the capable leadership of Rev. Jeremy Hylen as Interim Camp Director. The weeks of camp went exceptionally well. Thank you, Jeremy, and our incredible team!


Unfortunately, a COVID-19 outbreak among week three guests and staff forced us to cancel our final week of camp. Night Owl Week was to be our largest week, making it both an emotional disappointment and a financial setback. The search for a new managing director will begin as soon as possible. 


So, with a deep breath, we prepare to transition into the late summer and fall retreat season. I personally thank all who trusted us and blessed us with part of your summer vacation! I thank our staff, beyond words for their support of our guests! I look forward to your feedback as we efficiently pivot to making improvements and adjustments in preparation for the next summer camp season.


I also encourage you to look for opportunities to spend time with us at one of our sacred sites this fall. We have many exciting opportunities to join a planned/programmed event or get away and spend time communing in God’s creation. I hope we see you soon!


With deep appreciation and many blessings,

Jim

executivedirector@ucci.org

 
2024 Camps & Events Calendar

Outdoor Ministry Needs Your Support


Will you help us build a culture of generosity for the lasting future of our camps? Your support is crucial for the success of outdoor ministry. Donations bring the mission of UCCI to life, ensuring our camps thrive for generations. By contributing, you invest in programs, facility upgrades, and scholarships. Your generosity sustains and energizes our mission, keeping these sacred spaces accessible for years to come.

General Fund

Thanks to your generosity, work has been completed on four cabins! Our campaign to raise the funding to complete all 16 cabins is continuing! Please watch this video update from Executive Director Jim Schleif. We ask that you prayerfully consider a donation.

Moon Beach Cabins Foundation Restoration
 

Join Our Mission-Driven Team!


Help us keep our technology running smoothly and efficiently. Are you a tech-savvy problem solver with a passion for helping others? UCCI is looking for a part-time IT Specialist to maintain, manage, and upgrade our software, hardware, and networks. This role is perfect for someone who can diagnose and resolve issues quickly and enjoys working with diverse teams. This is a casual part-time position (10-15 hours/week), with the flexibility to work from home and on-site as needed.

IT Specialist Job

Moon Beach

Enjoy a Low-Key Labor Day Weekend


Looking for the perfect Labor Day getaway? Join us from August 30th to September 2nd for our Low-Key Labor Day Weekend! (This event replaces the Last Hurrah of Summer.)


Enjoy lodging, delicious continental breakfasts, and access to Moon Beach Camp's beautiful grounds and facilities. With no structured programming, you’re free to enjoy the camp and amenities at your leisure. Whether hiking, swimming, kayaking, or just relaxing by the fire, there's something for everyone. Prices start at $175 for children ages 4-11 and $225 for ages 12 and up. Kids under 4 are free! Don't miss out—reserve your spot today by calling or emailing Moon Beach!


We would love to welcome you to Moon Beach!


NEW! Journal To The Self:

Immersive Journal Workshop

September 26-29, 2024


Join Kathy Holperin, a former Moon Beach staffer and certified facilitator of the Journal to the Self® methods, for an enriching weekend retreat. Drawing from Kathleen Adams’s acclaimed book Journal to the Self, this workshop offers participants 12 hours of instruction and hands-on experience with 18 transformative journaling techniques–all with Moon Beach as the inspirational setting!

Learn More & Sign Up
 

Cedar Valley

Join us for an art workshop at Cedar Valley!


Cedar Valley’s art workshops are for everyone! Class size is kept small to offer personal instructions. No previous experience is needed. Our expert instructors will guide you through creating your project. The cost includes supplies unless otherwise noted. Full-day and weekend classes include lunch. Weekend classes offer commuter and overnight options. Come join us and let your creative spirit soar!

Art Workshop Calendar

Cedar Valley Airbnb Rentals

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.



We would be delighted to welcome you. Click here to learn more about the apartment.

Book the Apartment on Airbnb

Welcome to The Log House, a charming piece of living history nestled in a serene setting with breathtaking views! This historic log house, estimated to have been built in 1873 according to township records, offers a unique blend of authenticity and modern comfort.


Learn more >

Book the Log House on Airbnb
 
 

Daycholah Center

Stitch In Time 2

September 27-30, 2024


A four-day retreat for quilters and other crafters to enjoy a dedicated workspace and uninterrupted time in the beauty of God’s creation. Pamper yourself with undisturbed time to walk in the woods, relax by a fire, walk the outdoor labyrinth, or even visit a local quilt shop or craft store. Exercise your creative spirit with others in a creative community.


We would love to welcome you to Moon Beach!

Learn More
 
 

Faith Formation & Youth Leader Retreat

August 23-25 • Daycholah Center


If you’re involved in faith formation or youth ministry in your congregation or want to learn more, plan to attend the Faith Formation and Youth Leader Retreat for the weekend of Aug. 23 to 25 at Daycholah Center.


Participants will engage with presentations from the recent Rethink Children and Youth Ministry Summit, share ideas and resources, and imagine what’s possible in these important areas of ministry. Plus, there will be plenty of time to recharge at Daycholah Center, on the shores of beautiful Green Lake.



Register by August 8th


Email Lisa Hart, associate conference minister for faith formation and justice ministries, with questions.

2024-25 Youth Retreats – Save the Date!


The Wisconsin Conference and United Church Camps Inc. will host five youth retreats at Daycholah Center in the coming program year. Registration will open soon!



Oct. 11-13: Knock Knock Retreat for middle schoolers (grades 6-8)

Nov. 8-10: Youth Faith Formation Retreat I (grades 6-12)

Jan. 24-26: Winter Soulstice Retreat for high schoolers (grades 9-12)

Feb. 21-23: Youth Faith Formation Retreat II (grades 6-12)

Feb 28-Mar 2: Youth Faith Formation Retreat III (grades 6-12)

Facebook Links

UCCI

Moon Beach

Daycholah Center

Cedar Valley

Camp AweSum

UCCI Mission Statement

We will love God, All Others, and the Earth by providing sanctuary, practicing hospitality, and performing ministry.

 
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. 
 

United Church Camps Inc. | 800-683-UCCI

Daycholah Center: 920-745-4746 | W1010 Spring Grove Rd. Ripon, WI 54971

Moon Beach: 715-479-8255 | 1487 Moon Beach Rd. St. Germain, WI 54558

Cedar Valley: 262-629-9202 | 5349 County Road D West Bend, WI 53090

UCCI.org