2024 Annual Impact Report : simplebooklet.com

Note from the DirectorNote from the Board ChairAs we look back on 2024, the UMCRM Association’s journey has been one of connection and bold stepsforward. This year saw growth in the number of association members, which is a testament to thestrength and relevance of our shared mission. With this growth came an expansion in the number ofprojects and initiatives we undertook—each one driven by the passion and dedication of our incrediblecommunity. UMCRM also saw a surge in participation in Community Conversations. These gatherings are acornerstone of engagement, fostering rich discussions, shared learning, and stronger relationshipsamong leaders across our network. It was inspiring to witness so many voices come together, shaping thefuture of our work in meaningful ways.Another major milestone in 2024 was the collaborative effort between our board and the widerassociation community to establish Strategic Initiatives that will guide us into the future. This work laidthe foundation for long-term impact, ensuring that our programs, resources, and leadership effortsremain aligned with the evolving needs of camp and retreat professionals. The thoughtfulness andcommitment invested in this process reflect the deep care we all share for this community and its future.None of this would have been possible without the generosity and engagement of our members. Yourtime, insights, and support continue to fuel our collective impact. As we step into 2025, let’s carry forwardthe momentum, inspiration, and sense of shared purpose that made the past year so extraordinary. Icannot wait to see where our collective vision leads us next!As I wind down my service as Board Chair for the UMCRM Board of Directors, I take pause and reflect on themany opportunities I have encountered during these two years. There are many. I have been touched bythe very caring and kind hearts of our UMCRM family when I about “poked my eye out” at Epworth-By-The-Sea with my Gathering conference nametag, blessed to learn from incredibly smart people in our campingcommunity, and inspired by the incredible opportunity of participating in ground-breaking researchregarding the impact of the camp experience. The keys to these opportunities have been plentiful not onlyvia the Board of Directors, but also from the vast number of resources that emanate from our belovedUMCRM.Keys have the power to unlock doors—to open new possibilities, reveal fresh perspectives and grant accessto spaces we’ve never entered before. As a Board, we recently engaged in an inspirational trainingexperience that challenged us to think about the many keys we hold: keys to leadership, to innovation, todeeper community, and to the future of UMCRM.With growing membership, expanding initiatives, and record participation, we saw firsthand the power ofcollaboration. In 2024, this Association stepped boldly forward and laid the groundwork for the futurethrough a Strategic Initiatives process whereby key priorities were identified that will guide us in the yearsto come. And thanks to the incredible generosity of our members, 2024 fundraising goals were surpassed,positioning UMCRM to adequately launch new mission-driven projects in 2025.As we look ahead, I am energized by each of you who has helped us to confidently unlock doors throughwhich we have walked together to reveal the potential that lies beyond them. Thank you for yourdedication, your vision, and the ways you continue to invest in this ministry. With faith and determination,let’s share more keys to continue unlocking opportunities for our future together! Reflectionson 2024Jessica GamachéDail Ballard

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About Our CommunityCommitted to the mission of The United Methodist Church (“making disciples of Jesus Christ for thetransformation of the world”), the UMCRM Association resources, advocates, inspires, and networks toenhance the effectiveness and sustainability of United Methodist Camp and Retreat Ministries.573LEADERS177CAMP/RETREATMINISTRIES53ANNUAL CONFERENCES16BUSINESSAFFILIATES97 VolunteersSHAPED 27 PROJECTS AND INITIATIVESS'more MailOur weekly S'more Mail e-newsletter continues to be thecenterpiece of UMCRM's ministry. This newsletter is keyin distributing and communicating the resources andeducational opportunities that our network provides tocamp and retreat leaders. In 2024, S'more Mail reachedmore than 1,300 subscribers weekly, with an open rateaveraging 54%.The most clicked items last year included:FLSA information and reversalSalary Visualization ToolGrant Awards and ReportsAnti-Jokes

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194individual membersATTENDED ONE OR MORE COMMUNITY CONVERSATIONS2024 Community AccomplishmentsLovingly called “ILGs,” these monthly cohorts continue tobe a platform for our camp and retreat leaders to connectand support one another between in-person events.The current 2024-’25 season has 86 individuals (119registrants) participating in 11 different groups including:New Directors’ Cohort, 100-level and 200-level Fundraisingoptions, Nature: Our first way of knowing God, andMethodism for CRM.Intentional Leadership GroupsUMCRM's online, topic-based Community Conversations have broughtincredible value to our network over the past several years. Held every otherWednesday, attendance at the 2024 Community Conversations totaled 410participants over 20 sessions. The spring and fall seasons featured a variety oftopics including mental health, communications/marketing, inclusion,fundraising, labor law changes, calculating the cost of camp, and insurance. Community ConversationsEvents and Trainings of 2024Jurisdictional EventsIn January, 129 participants gathered for the Southeast and Northeast Jurisdictional Events, heldsimultaneously in Georgia and Pennsylvania. This was the first event for the Northeast Jurisdiction to beheld since 2012. These gatherings fostered connection, learning, and collaboration, strengthening ourregional networks and equipping leaders to enhance their ministry impact in meaningful ways. The successof holding these events simultaneously has inspired future events to include additional Jurisdictions. Execs SummitIn November, 20 Conference-level CRM staff and executives came together for the UMCRM ExecutivesSummit. This annual gathering provides a vital space for collaboration, strategic discussions, and peersupport, equipping these executive leaders to navigate challenges and strengthen the impact of ourcollective camp and retreat ministries.Camp Volunteer Training SuiteRe-envisioned in 2023, UMCRM's Camp Volunteer Training Suite saw even greater engagement in 2024,with 11 organizations and nearly 80 staff and volunteers utilizing the resource. This organization-focusedformat continues to empower camp directors to integrate training materials in ways that best supporttheir volunteer counselors and deans, enhancing both online and onsite education.

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Strengthening Our Future Through Leadership, Advocacy, and ConnectionIn 2024, the UMCRM Board launched a set of Strategic Initiatives aimed at shaping the future of ourcommunity over the next three years. These initiatives, developed in response to insights gathered fromUMCRM members through a comprehensive survey, reflect our shared vision for strengtheningleadership development, amplifying advocacy efforts, and enhancing networking opportunities.Leadership Development: Expanding Opportunities for GrowthRecognizing the need for stronger professional pathways, UMCRM is investing in leadership developmentto equip individuals at all levels of camp and retreat ministry. Our goal is to establish a comprehensiveprofessional development pathway by June 2027, ensuring that at least 75% of non-executive membersreport enhanced career development opportunities.Key initiatives include:Expanding UMCRM Certification to include specialized tracks beyond the traditional director role,such as fundraising, marketing, food service, and hospitality. This effort will launch in October 2025.Strengthening Certification Standards by increasing proficiency requirements, applicable hours, andcontinuing education requirements, ensuring a rigorous and valuable credential.Launching the National Summer Staff Exchange Program, an initiative designed to broaden theperspectives of summer staff by connecting them to the wider UMCRM network. This program willexpose participants to different UMCRM sites, helping them see their role within a larger movementand inspiring them to consider a career in camp and retreat ministry. The pilot program will take placein Summer 2025, with full implementation by Summer 2026.Advocacy: Amplifying Our Collective VoiceAdvocacy emerged as a top priority for members, particularly as many camps navigate budgetconstraints and organizational transitions within the church. By December 2026, our goal is to ensurethat at least 80% of Annual Conferences recognize and support the impact of camp and retreatministries.Key initiatives include:Building Stronger Relationships with Conference Leaders by developing dedicated resources on theUMCRM website and expanding the UMCRM Advisory Team starting in June 2025.Hosting Advocacy Events and Leadership Gatherings to facilitate direct engagement with Conferenceleadership, beginning in September 2025.Creating Effective Advocacy Tools, including a research-based document highlighting the impact ofcamp and retreat ministries. This tool will be developed by March 2025 and accompanied by trainingsessions to help leaders effectively communicate the value of their ministries.Networking: Strengthening Connections Across Our CommunityFostering collaboration and peer support remains at the heart of UMCRM. By May 2027, we aim toenhance networking by leveraging ecumenical partnerships and increasing jurisdictional-focusedprograms, ensuring that at least 90% of participants report stronger connectedness and professionalgrowth.Key initiatives include:Doubling the Number of Jurisdictional-Focused Programs by December 2026, including virtual peer-to-peer support opportunities launching in February 2025 and a mentorship program for emergingleaders by September 2025.Expanding Ecumenical Partnerships by developing joint initiatives with other faith-basedorganizations. The first pilot programs, including shared training and resource-sharing opportunities,will roll out in Fall 2025.Enhancing Regional and National Gatherings to provide more frequent and meaningful opportunitiesfor connection, equipping leaders with the tools and relationships they need to succeed.These strategic initiatives represent our commitment to empowering leaders, strengthening ourvoice, and fostering meaningful connections in the UMCRM community. 2024 UMCRM Strategic Initiatives Summary

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Chair - Dail Ballard, Class of 2025Vice-Chair - Jeff Parsons, NCJ, Class of 2026Treasurer - Brant Henshaw, Class of 2025Secretary - Sam Richardson, NEJ, Class of 2025Bishop Pete Weaver, Class of 2026U M C R M G O V E R N A N C EThe UMCRM Board of Directors strives to ensure that the Association fulfills its goals byaddressing these outcomes:The people of The United Methodist Church will be well-served by effective leadersof camp and retreat ministries, at a cost of leadership development willingly borneby members of the Association.L E A D E R S H I PS U S T A I N A B I L I T YM I S S I O N A L E F F E C T I V E N E S S Association members will exhibit strengths of transformative leadership.Camp and Retreat Ministries will be operated sustainably.Camp and Retreat Ministries will be missionally effective.B O A R DM E M B E R SB O A R DD E V E L O P M E N TC O M M I T T E EChair - David Berkey, Class of 2027Scott Gilpin, Class of 2025Kirstin Shrom-Rhoads, Class of 2025Mike Huber, Class of 2026Arthur Spriggs, Class of 2026Vickie Lawson, Class of 2026Apryl Miller, Class of 2027Mitzie Schafer, Class of 2027Patrick Roscoe, SCJ, Class of 2027Martha Pierce, Class of 2028Josh Shaw, Class of 2028Tony Prestipino, Class of 2028

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Association Financial Health$261KTOTAL INCOME$272KTOTAL EXPENSESContributions39.5%Events22.7%Earned Interest & Other Income22.2%Grants**15.5%2 0 2 4 I N C O M E S O U R C E S* * W e a r e g r a t e f u l f o r t h e g e n e r o s i t y o f a n a n o n y m o u s f a m i l y f o u n d a t i o n w h o s e m u l t i -y e a r g r a n t h a s p a r t i a l l y f u n d e d t h e f u l l - t i m e D i r e c t o r p o s i t i o n f o r U M C R M o v e r t h ep a s t f o u r y e a r s . 2 0 2 4 w a s t h e l a s t y e a r o f r e c e i v i n g f u n d i n g t h r o u g h t h i s g r a n t .Note from the TreasurerAs I reflect on my nine years as UMCRM Treasurer, I am filled with gratitude for the journey we havetaken together. It has been an honor to serve this Association and witness its resilience, growth, andcommitment to equipping camp and retreat leaders.In 2024, we navigated a planned deficit, staying in line with our approved budget while meeting our$100,000 fundraising goal, thanks in part to a generous unrestricted bequest. Although our focus wason developing strategic initiatives rather than expanding income sources, investment gains helpedmaintain our financial stability. This year also marked the conclusion of our multi-year grant funding,a reminder of the importance of continuing to build a strong and diversified financial foundation forthe future.As I step away from this role, I do so with confidence in the financial health of UMCRM and theleadership that will carry it forward. I am delighted to pass the Treasurer’s responsibilities to TonyPrestipino, who will no doubt bring wisdom and dedication to this work.To our board, staff, and incredible community—thank you for your trust, your generosity, and yourpartnership over the years. It has been a privilege to serve alongside you, and I look forward to seeingall that UMCRM will accomplish in the years to come!Brant Henshaw

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020,00040,00060,00080,000100,000120,0002021202220232024$101,4292024 DONATION TOTALGOAL FOR 2025 - $120,000Donation amounts by yearWhat an incredible year of generosity and impact! In 2024, our community came together in anextraordinary way, raising $101,429 to strengthen and sustain our shared ministry. In this funding, we wereblessed with a generous $24,000 bequest, a powerful reminder of the lasting legacy and deep investmentso many have in this work.Your support directly fuels the resources, training, and connections that equip camp and retreat leadersacross the country. Thanks to your generosity, we exceeded our fundraising goal for the year. With theseadditional funds, we were able to expand the number of Community Conversations we offered andincrease our capacity to support Compass Points, a valuable ecumenical partnership. These additionalresources are already making a tangible impact, strengthening our ability to serve and support theleaders who make camp and retreat ministries thrive.As we look ahead to 2025, we are excited to grow beyond the annual fund with special funded projectsthat will further enrich our ministries and strengthen our collective mission. This is only possible becauseof you— our dedicated, passionate, and generous community. Thank you for believing in this work. Thankyou for giving so faithfully. Together, we are building something truly meaningful.Mitzie SchaferINDIVIDUAL DONORS:Fifty-eight individuals donated $59,988 to UMCRM in 202458$59,988ORGANIZATIONAL DONORS:Thirty-five camp and retreat organizations (representing81 sites) donated $41,441 to UMCRM in 202435$41,441L E G A C Y O F L E A D E R S H I P F U N DBalance $170,499Amount awarded in 2024 - $6,800 to 17 recipientsS O L O M O N C R A M E R G R A N T A W A R D SAmount awarded in 2024 - $33,745 to 16 organizationsO P E R A T I O N A L R E S O U R C E S I N V E S T M E N T F U N DBalance $197,330

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Supporters’ Circle (.1% - .15%)Bay Shore CampCamp IstroumaGreat Plains CRMGretna Glen Camp & Retreat CenterMinnesota and Dakotas CRMNorthern Illinois ConferencePecometh Camp & Retreat CenterPocono PlateauSouth Carolina CRMSusquehanna Conference CRMContributors’ Circle (<.1%)Camp AlleghenyCamp Wesley PinesCamp WrightwoodCedar GlenColby Camp and Retreat CenterEast Ohio CampsEpworth by the SeaIGRC - East Bay CampIGRC - Little Grassy CampLakeshore Camp & Retreat CenterLazy W Camp & Retreat CenterMount Eagle Retreat CenterMountain Sky CRMOlmsted Manor Retreat CenterThank you to all of the incredible donors who have made it possiblefor UMCRM to resource, advocate, inspire, and network the amazingUnited Methodist camp and retreat leaders across the country.Organizational Donors by giving level:Heritage Circle (>.2% of annual operating budget)Camp MechuwanaCamp TekoaNorth Carolina Camp & Retreat MinistriesNorth Georgia Camp & Retreat MinistriesOregon Idaho Camp & Retreat MinistriesWarren Willis Camp & Conference CenterSustainers’ Circle (.15% - .2%)Holston Conference Camp & RetreatMinistriesIowa ConferenceLake JunaluskaPNW Conference Camp & Retreat MinistriesQuinipet Camp & Retreat CenterUpper New York CRM

2024 Annual Impact Report

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