Discover what some church camps are doing to remain financially viable.

Learn some basic insurance and legal considerations regarding church camp changes.

Church camp has always been very much for and about kids. This was true well before today’s refrain of “It’s for the kids. It’s all about the kids.” attained popularity, usually in reference to youth fundraisers and activities associated with school or sports. Unfortunately, changing interests and financial challenges have forced the closing of many church camps. The good news is others have adapted and continue to keep the cabin lights on and the dining halls lively.

Several church camps have discarded the summer church camp model and are now open year-round. Staff engages with the local community and provides programming that is mutually beneficial. Examples of year-round church camp activities you may consider offering:

• A weekend retreat for school band members during the school year that includes a Sunday morning faith service.

• A week-long conference in mid Spring for horticulture and/or gardening associations/clubs, which includes some speakers who present faith-based perspectives, such as the care and use of land; or religious traditions in the growing and use of certain plants, and the importance of those plants to religious practices, etc. For those who are able, attendees might volunteer a few hours of service throughout the week in outdoor spring clean-up at the church camp.

• The availability of a woodworking project to improve the church camp chapel to local scout troops who may have Eagle Scout candidates searching for a community project.

Be sure to contact your insurance agent before making any material changes in your church camp schedule, i.e. time of year it is operational; special events that may require special event coverage; changes to the property, including additions or removal of buildings/structures, or changes in use of the property. Failure to notify the insurance company of material changes may result in coverage denial.

Another trend that has gained traction with church camps is the offering of higher risk-level activities to attract more youth. The traditional array of swimming, hiking, arts and crafts doesn’t have the same appeal as climbing walls, trail riding, or ziplines. These are risky activities that are beyond what is considered usual and customary. If your church camp is considering any activity outside the scope of usual and customary, contact your insurance agent and review coverage limitations. These activities are likely excluded. Some insurance companies may be willing to provide coverage for injury or damage arising out of these activities for an additional premium, and others may not. Engaging participants in activities that are excluded from coverage is not a risk any church camp can afford.

Throughout all the considerations and planning, church camps must adhere to their mission statement and stay rooted as non-profit organizations. Any adaptations or changes that jeopardize non-profit status or the stated mission will likely be challenged. It is recommended that church camps seek qualified, legal counsel when considering significant changes to their purpose or operations.

Contact your Trusted Choice Independent Insurance Agent at Richey-Barrett Insurance to discuss insurance coverage for your non-profit organization. Church camps are one of many different types of non-profit entities for which we offer insurance.