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AN UPDATE ON CAMP MCDOWELL
from 2nd Quarter 2023
by dioala
BY BISHOP PRIOR
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The last time I gave an update on Camp McDowell I shared with you that post COVID we had two main priorities: stabilize our finances and fill our beds. As reported, thanks to the great work of Acting Executive Director Whitney Moore-Shae, camp staff, and treasurer Phyllis Hall, camp’s financial position is strong and our beds are full!
Subsequently, we began to explore what the next season of Camp McDowell might look like. To that end we gathered for six in-person listening sessions, and also shared an online questionnaire. This input was then categorized and synthesized by a diverse group from across the diocese, with a variety of histories and experiences at camp.
Over the last few weeks, the Camp Department, Bishop G, and Diocesan Council have had an opportunity to explore what is the most effective model in the next season for both management and governance of camp. This input, coupled with the listening sessions, will be extremely helpful as we move forward during this time of discernment. As a person who spends a lot time doing organizational transition work, I would offer there is no better time to explore the future than when you are functioning at a high level. Recent experiences of camp hosting Diocesan Convention and the House of Bishops are great examples of how extremely well camp is running. This is providing us the opportunity to do the deep work of exploring Camp McDowell’s future without feeling the pressure that there is an immediate crisis to be solved. Thank you for your ongoing support of Camp McDowell. Both the present and the future continue to be very promising!
Photos: Top: Camp was blessed and grateful to host the Spring House of Bishops Conference in March. Celebrating Presiding Bishop Michael Curry’s 70th birthday made the week even more special. Middle: The Mother Daughter Retreat hosted by camp in April was a blast! Bottom: The Environmental Center staff: each season they prepare canoe docks for use with Environmental Center groups, and then for summer camp.
