| winter2018campbethelnews.pdf |
Camp Bethel News, Winter 2017-2018
MINI-VAN & CAMERAS TOP CAMP’S WISH LIST: We urgently need a working mini-van, and new or gently used digital cameras/video cameras OR old smart phones that still work as cameras. Other needs: chest coolers w/ handles; a "GoPro" video camera; new (in-the-box) bike helmets & horse helmets; kayaks, paddles & new lifejackets; brooms w/ dustpans. Tax-deductible! www.CampBethelVirginia.org/donate.
CAMP DIRECTOR'S 2017 SUMMER CAMP SUMMARY (Updated 09/12/2017)
Our record-breaking 2017 Summer Camps included 7 weeks of Spirit-filled programs with the theme "Branching Out: Connected Through Christ." We registered 1,212 campers (new record!) in 88 program choices (1,159 in 2016, 1,209 in 2015), with 274 participants in our 6 Traveling Day Camps (280 in 2016, 229 in 2015) and 44 participants in our Family Fun nights (66 in 2016, 65 in 2015). Excellent staff, partners & volunteers served as Chaplains, counselors & general helpers. Other data:
CAMP BETHEL SUMMER CAMPS 2018: "BOUNDLESS BELIEF: GOD’S UNIVERSE"
NEW camps include “Digital Arts Camp” and “Moonrise Adventure,” plus new activities and adventures for your BEST SUMMER EVER! Register early to guarantee your chosen program. On-line registration begins January 8, with all Summer Camp info (brochure, forms, schedules) mailed in late January and instantly available at www.CampBethelVirginia.org/camps.
CAMP BETHEL IS OPEN AND ACTIVE ALL YEAR. In addition to 1,212 summer campers, in 2017 we hosted Camp Kesem’s 108 campers (July 30-Aug 5), three band camps totaling 357 campers, and we will additionally host 22,920 guests in retreats, events, special programs, and Your Outdoor Classroom and KinderCritters outdoor education. In 2017 we hosted guests and events on 46 of 52 possible weeks and weekends!
WELCOME FOOD SERVICES COORDINATOR, ELIZABETH HALEY! Elizabeth began employment August 1. She grew up in Roanoke and graduated from William Fleming High School. She has been cooking since she was a child, and for several years more formally as the Hospitality/Food Services Leader for Jesus Is Lord Assembly of Love in Roanoke. Elizabeth "loves people, cooking, and singing" and she said, "I'm excited to serve others and use my God-given gifts to meet others’ needs through planning and preparing meals." Brigitte Burton’s last day as Food Services Coordinator was July 31, 2017. Brigitte entered Law School at Northeastern University. Join the summer kitchen team at www.CampBethelVirginia.org/summer-staff.
WINTER CAMP YOUTH & KIDS’ RETREAT, DECEMBER 30-31! Winter Camp is a fun and spiritual holiday program for 1st - 12th graders led by our reunited Summer Staff. $70 includes 4 excellent meals, lodging and program including Group Games, Glow-in-the-Dark Gym Party w/ 9-Square/GaGa/4-Square, Singing camp songs & Christmas Carols, a big bonfire, Bible study, crafts, hiking, nature fun, skits & game show, sledding and other snow fun (if it snows), worship, wagon ride, summer photos slide show, 2018 summer camp preview... and FREE Camp Bethel STICKERS! Registration and information at www.CampBethelVirginia.org/winter-camp.
BIG FUNDRAISERS ARE HELPING! Sow the Seed Banquet March 2 raised $5,415. Sounds of the Mountains Festival April 28-29 raised $27,073! Benefit Golf Tournament August 23 raised $12,480! Our inaugural “Camp Bethel PEP! 5K” had 89 participants, 24 volunteers, and 13 sponsors raising $3,665! Heritage Day on Oct 7, 2017 raised $36,475! Christmas Together Banquet on December 7 raised $8,558! Big thanks to everyone who participated! www.CampBethelVirginia.org/donate.
NEXT GENERATION TREE PLANTING: New saplings of shortleaf pine, hazelnut, river birch, persimmon, and sycamore are in place near the Shelter by the Spring, Ark Pond and all around campus. These plantings ensure the future of a healthy tree population for scenic value, shade, and water protection. Peek inside the four-foot-tall green tree tubes with nets and stakes to see baby persimmon trees, protected from deer. Summer campers adopted a sapling during their week as part of their Bible study and nature lessons.
MONTE VISTA CHURCH SPAGHETTI SUPPER FOR “SEED” CAMPAIGN, JANUARY 20: Monte Vista Church of the Brethren (25 Wades Gap Rd, Callaway, VA 24067) will host a delicious spaghetti supper on Sat, Jan 20, 4-6 pm. Donations will be accepted for “Seed, Scattered and Sown” campaign for camp/district. In case of snow, contact Lois Carr 540-929-4795. Snow Date is February 3.
SEED, SCATTERED AND SOWN UPDATE: "Seed, Scattered and Sown: Reaching Beyond This Generation" is the mission resourcing campaign of the Virlina District now through 2020. As of December 19, 2017 this effort has attained 254 pledges of $489,003 with receipts of $291,014. Our Victory Goal is $750,000, and our Challenge Goal $1,000,000. We are now in the Congregational Phase of the campaign through Spring of 2018. Camp and District staff and our committees have already given, and now our member congregations are adding their gifts over and above their budgeted annual gifts. YOUR GIFT will provide that extra “push” we need to reach these specific goals, which will help us achieve our greater mission. Please consider a $68 monthly installment for the next 36 months for a total of $2,448. Donate or pledge today at www.VirlinaFuture.org.
SEND YOUR CHURCH’S REP TO THE CAMP SUPPORTER LUNCHEON, SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17: 12:00-3:00, all Camp Representatives, pastors, youth leaders, friends and supporters of Camp Bethel are encouraged to attend our Camp Supporter Luncheon. Please ensure that at least ONE person from your congregation is in attendance. You do not have to be an official Camp Rep to attend. After a free lunch in the Ark, we’ll share and distribute all the tools and information you need to communicate Camp Bethel to your home congregations. www.CampBethelVirginia.org/rep.
WILDERNESS FIRST AID CERTIFICATION TRAINING, FEB 17-18: Camp Bethel is once again partnering with SOLO to provide the BEST W.F.A. training available. Optional CPR w/ AED Training on Feb 16, and all-inclusive packages (meals, lodging, etc) are available. Check info and pricing or to register at www.CampBethelVirginia.org/WFA.
VIRLINA DISTRICT JUNIOR HIGH RETREAT – MARCH 2-3, 2018 AT CAMP BETHEL: Join other youth in grades 6-8 at Camp for a fun and spirit filled retreat led by Jenna Stacey, Camp Bethel Program Coordinator. Info and forms will be mailed to congregations, or register individuals/groups at www.CampBethelVirginia.org/junior-high-retreat. $15.00 per person. Register by February 26.
SOW THE SEED SCHOLARSHIP BANQUET, THURSDAY, MARCH 8, 6:30pm: Plant seeds of FAITH in the lives of children, youth and young adults! At $50 per person (larger gifts accepted), all costs and donations from the evening directly fund "camperships" and our summer camp ministries. RSVP by February 28 to CampBethelOffice@gmail.com or 540-992-2940. Payments accepted in advance or at the table, and your gift is tax-deductible! Our base fee for a week of camp in 2018 is $330. Give the gift of CAMP; it’s an experience that can change a life forever.
SPRING VOLUNTEER WORKDAY IS APRIL 7! RSVP 7:30am free breakfast & 1:00pm free lunch by April 1; Your help is needed to prepare camp for the summer season. Workday projects (rain or shine; indoor and outdoor) for all skill levels and all ages. Bring rakes, blowers, drag tarps, chainsaws, wood splitters, safety gear, ladders, gloves, garden & landscaping gear, tools (construction, repair, electrical, plumbing, etc.), vacuums, flatbeds, trucks (especially 4x4), cleaning gear & chemicals, brooms, mops, rags... and bring friends! Info at www.CampBethelVirginia.org/workday.
SOUNDS OF THE MOUNTAINS FESTIVAL, APRIL 27-28, 2018: Our 17th annual Sounds of the Mountains Festival of Music and Storytelling features excellent and nationally known tellers, Kevin Kling, Odds Bodkin, Sheila Arnold Jones, Jim May, The Company Store Band, food, and a Friday campfire. This is one of Camp Bethel's most important fundraisers, so help spread the word and consider sponsoring the festival. www.SoundsoftheMountains.org.
SUMMER CAMP STAFF 2018: COUNSELORS NEEDED! Paid and volunteer positions are filled on a first-hired, first-filled basis. See www.CampBethelVirginia.org/summer-staff for applications. BEST SUMMER JOB EVER!
SUMMER KITCHEN STAFF AT CAMP BETHEL: Camp Bethel seeks ministry-minded individuals to help prepare and serve summer camp meals June 10-August 18, plus additional paid training days during the weeks of May 28-June 8. For position descriptions, pay, and shift schedules, e-mail Elizabeth Haley at CampBethelArk@gmail.com. Apply at www.CampBethelVirginia.org/summer-staff.
SUBSCRIBE TO OUR MONTHLY E-NEWS at www.CampBethelVirginia.org/subscribe. Facebook, IG, & YouTube as “CampBethelVirginia.”
UPCOMING CAMP BETHEL EVENTS:
December 30 10am—December 31, 2pm: Winter Camp Youth & Kids’ Retreat
January 8, 2018: Summer Camp Registration OPENS.
February 16, 2018 (Fri): CPR w/ AED Certification Training.
February 17-18, 2017 (Sat-Sun): Wilderness First Aid Certification Training.
February 17, 2018 (Sat), 12:00noon: Camp Supporter Lunch, RSVP.
March 8, 2018 (Thurs), 6:30pm: Sow the Seed Campership Banquet, RSVP.
April 7, 2018 (Sat) 7:30am Spring Workday & 1:00pm Luncheon.
April 27-28, 2018 (Fri-Sat): 17th Sounds of the Mountains Festival.
May 25-28, 2018: Memorial Day Family Weekend & Concerts, RSVP meals.
May 26, 2018 (Sat), Family Day/Summer Camp Open House, 1:00-4:00pm.
May 28-June 8, 2018: Summer Staff Training.
June 1-2, 2018: Parent-Child Overnight Camp.
June 8, 2018 (Fri) 5:30pm: Staff Commissioning Dinner/Family Picnic.
June 10–August 3, 2018: Summer Camps & Family Adventures.
July 22-August 18, 2018: Guest Camps & Band Camps.
August 22, 2018 (Wed): 24th Annual Benefit Golf Tournament & Banquet.
August 25, 2018 (Sat): Camp Bethel PEP! 5K Run/Walk.
August 31-Sept 3, 2018: Labor Day Family Weekend.
October 6, 2018 (Sat): 34th annual Heritage Day Festival.
November 3, 2018 (Sat): Fall Volunteer Workday.
November 9-10, 2018: Virlina District Conference, location TBD.
November 11-15, 2018 (Sun-Thu): OMA National Retreat at Camp Bethel.
November 12, 2018 (Mon): Crisis Management Workshop 11:00am-4:00pm.
December 1, 2018 (Sat): Virlina District Board/OMC day at Camp Bethel.
December 6, 2018 (Thu): Christmas TOGETHER Banquet.
December 28, 2018 (Fri): Summer Staff Reunion & Potluck Dinner.
December 29-30, 2018: Winter Camp Youth & Kids’ Retreat.
MINI-VAN & CAMERAS TOP CAMP’S WISH LIST: We urgently need a working mini-van, and new or gently used digital cameras/video cameras OR old smart phones that still work as cameras. Other needs: chest coolers w/ handles; a "GoPro" video camera; new (in-the-box) bike helmets & horse helmets; kayaks, paddles & new lifejackets; brooms w/ dustpans. Tax-deductible! www.CampBethelVirginia.org/donate.
CAMP DIRECTOR'S 2017 SUMMER CAMP SUMMARY (Updated 09/12/2017)
Our record-breaking 2017 Summer Camps included 7 weeks of Spirit-filled programs with the theme "Branching Out: Connected Through Christ." We registered 1,212 campers (new record!) in 88 program choices (1,159 in 2016, 1,209 in 2015), with 274 participants in our 6 Traveling Day Camps (280 in 2016, 229 in 2015) and 44 participants in our Family Fun nights (66 in 2016, 65 in 2015). Excellent staff, partners & volunteers served as Chaplains, counselors & general helpers. Other data:
- 216 children received Good-As-Gold funding from Virlina congregations totaling $50,407, (208 totaling $49,934 in 2016).
- 87 received "Camperships" totaling $25,715, which exceeds current available Funds by $6,658, (72 in 2016 = $19,410).
- 75 campers pre-registered in 2017 for 2018 camps (63 campers in 2016 for 2017 camps, 60 campers in 2015 for 2016).
- 702 campers registered on-line, (613 in 2016), and 561 registered by May 1 "Subsidized" discount, (593 in 2016; 633 in 2015).
- Of the 782 who answered the question, 385 identified as Church of the Brethren (49%), 397 as other denomination (51%).
- 1,212 Campers: 429 in 6-day Resident Camps; 65 in Elem Adv; 87 in MS/HS Adv; 12 in Specialty/Skills; 127 in 3-day Resident Camps; 71 in Trips; 72 in P/C Overnight; 274 in Traveling Day Camps; 31 in on site Day Camps; 44 in Family Fun nights.
- Camper families offered $1,735 to our “Seed, Scattered and Sown” financial campaign.
- From May 23-August 19, Brigitte's & Elizabeth’s kitchen team served a total of 25,795 individual meals during 193 meal times, PLUS over 1,000 out lunches & Home-in-the-Woods cookouts, (22,822 in 176 times in 2016).
CAMP BETHEL SUMMER CAMPS 2018: "BOUNDLESS BELIEF: GOD’S UNIVERSE"
NEW camps include “Digital Arts Camp” and “Moonrise Adventure,” plus new activities and adventures for your BEST SUMMER EVER! Register early to guarantee your chosen program. On-line registration begins January 8, with all Summer Camp info (brochure, forms, schedules) mailed in late January and instantly available at www.CampBethelVirginia.org/camps.
CAMP BETHEL IS OPEN AND ACTIVE ALL YEAR. In addition to 1,212 summer campers, in 2017 we hosted Camp Kesem’s 108 campers (July 30-Aug 5), three band camps totaling 357 campers, and we will additionally host 22,920 guests in retreats, events, special programs, and Your Outdoor Classroom and KinderCritters outdoor education. In 2017 we hosted guests and events on 46 of 52 possible weeks and weekends!
WELCOME FOOD SERVICES COORDINATOR, ELIZABETH HALEY! Elizabeth began employment August 1. She grew up in Roanoke and graduated from William Fleming High School. She has been cooking since she was a child, and for several years more formally as the Hospitality/Food Services Leader for Jesus Is Lord Assembly of Love in Roanoke. Elizabeth "loves people, cooking, and singing" and she said, "I'm excited to serve others and use my God-given gifts to meet others’ needs through planning and preparing meals." Brigitte Burton’s last day as Food Services Coordinator was July 31, 2017. Brigitte entered Law School at Northeastern University. Join the summer kitchen team at www.CampBethelVirginia.org/summer-staff.
WINTER CAMP YOUTH & KIDS’ RETREAT, DECEMBER 30-31! Winter Camp is a fun and spiritual holiday program for 1st - 12th graders led by our reunited Summer Staff. $70 includes 4 excellent meals, lodging and program including Group Games, Glow-in-the-Dark Gym Party w/ 9-Square/GaGa/4-Square, Singing camp songs & Christmas Carols, a big bonfire, Bible study, crafts, hiking, nature fun, skits & game show, sledding and other snow fun (if it snows), worship, wagon ride, summer photos slide show, 2018 summer camp preview... and FREE Camp Bethel STICKERS! Registration and information at www.CampBethelVirginia.org/winter-camp.
BIG FUNDRAISERS ARE HELPING! Sow the Seed Banquet March 2 raised $5,415. Sounds of the Mountains Festival April 28-29 raised $27,073! Benefit Golf Tournament August 23 raised $12,480! Our inaugural “Camp Bethel PEP! 5K” had 89 participants, 24 volunteers, and 13 sponsors raising $3,665! Heritage Day on Oct 7, 2017 raised $36,475! Christmas Together Banquet on December 7 raised $8,558! Big thanks to everyone who participated! www.CampBethelVirginia.org/donate.
NEXT GENERATION TREE PLANTING: New saplings of shortleaf pine, hazelnut, river birch, persimmon, and sycamore are in place near the Shelter by the Spring, Ark Pond and all around campus. These plantings ensure the future of a healthy tree population for scenic value, shade, and water protection. Peek inside the four-foot-tall green tree tubes with nets and stakes to see baby persimmon trees, protected from deer. Summer campers adopted a sapling during their week as part of their Bible study and nature lessons.
MONTE VISTA CHURCH SPAGHETTI SUPPER FOR “SEED” CAMPAIGN, JANUARY 20: Monte Vista Church of the Brethren (25 Wades Gap Rd, Callaway, VA 24067) will host a delicious spaghetti supper on Sat, Jan 20, 4-6 pm. Donations will be accepted for “Seed, Scattered and Sown” campaign for camp/district. In case of snow, contact Lois Carr 540-929-4795. Snow Date is February 3.
SEED, SCATTERED AND SOWN UPDATE: "Seed, Scattered and Sown: Reaching Beyond This Generation" is the mission resourcing campaign of the Virlina District now through 2020. As of December 19, 2017 this effort has attained 254 pledges of $489,003 with receipts of $291,014. Our Victory Goal is $750,000, and our Challenge Goal $1,000,000. We are now in the Congregational Phase of the campaign through Spring of 2018. Camp and District staff and our committees have already given, and now our member congregations are adding their gifts over and above their budgeted annual gifts. YOUR GIFT will provide that extra “push” we need to reach these specific goals, which will help us achieve our greater mission. Please consider a $68 monthly installment for the next 36 months for a total of $2,448. Donate or pledge today at www.VirlinaFuture.org.
SEND YOUR CHURCH’S REP TO THE CAMP SUPPORTER LUNCHEON, SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17: 12:00-3:00, all Camp Representatives, pastors, youth leaders, friends and supporters of Camp Bethel are encouraged to attend our Camp Supporter Luncheon. Please ensure that at least ONE person from your congregation is in attendance. You do not have to be an official Camp Rep to attend. After a free lunch in the Ark, we’ll share and distribute all the tools and information you need to communicate Camp Bethel to your home congregations. www.CampBethelVirginia.org/rep.
WILDERNESS FIRST AID CERTIFICATION TRAINING, FEB 17-18: Camp Bethel is once again partnering with SOLO to provide the BEST W.F.A. training available. Optional CPR w/ AED Training on Feb 16, and all-inclusive packages (meals, lodging, etc) are available. Check info and pricing or to register at www.CampBethelVirginia.org/WFA.
VIRLINA DISTRICT JUNIOR HIGH RETREAT – MARCH 2-3, 2018 AT CAMP BETHEL: Join other youth in grades 6-8 at Camp for a fun and spirit filled retreat led by Jenna Stacey, Camp Bethel Program Coordinator. Info and forms will be mailed to congregations, or register individuals/groups at www.CampBethelVirginia.org/junior-high-retreat. $15.00 per person. Register by February 26.
SOW THE SEED SCHOLARSHIP BANQUET, THURSDAY, MARCH 8, 6:30pm: Plant seeds of FAITH in the lives of children, youth and young adults! At $50 per person (larger gifts accepted), all costs and donations from the evening directly fund "camperships" and our summer camp ministries. RSVP by February 28 to CampBethelOffice@gmail.com or 540-992-2940. Payments accepted in advance or at the table, and your gift is tax-deductible! Our base fee for a week of camp in 2018 is $330. Give the gift of CAMP; it’s an experience that can change a life forever.
SPRING VOLUNTEER WORKDAY IS APRIL 7! RSVP 7:30am free breakfast & 1:00pm free lunch by April 1; Your help is needed to prepare camp for the summer season. Workday projects (rain or shine; indoor and outdoor) for all skill levels and all ages. Bring rakes, blowers, drag tarps, chainsaws, wood splitters, safety gear, ladders, gloves, garden & landscaping gear, tools (construction, repair, electrical, plumbing, etc.), vacuums, flatbeds, trucks (especially 4x4), cleaning gear & chemicals, brooms, mops, rags... and bring friends! Info at www.CampBethelVirginia.org/workday.
SOUNDS OF THE MOUNTAINS FESTIVAL, APRIL 27-28, 2018: Our 17th annual Sounds of the Mountains Festival of Music and Storytelling features excellent and nationally known tellers, Kevin Kling, Odds Bodkin, Sheila Arnold Jones, Jim May, The Company Store Band, food, and a Friday campfire. This is one of Camp Bethel's most important fundraisers, so help spread the word and consider sponsoring the festival. www.SoundsoftheMountains.org.
SUMMER CAMP STAFF 2018: COUNSELORS NEEDED! Paid and volunteer positions are filled on a first-hired, first-filled basis. See www.CampBethelVirginia.org/summer-staff for applications. BEST SUMMER JOB EVER!
SUMMER KITCHEN STAFF AT CAMP BETHEL: Camp Bethel seeks ministry-minded individuals to help prepare and serve summer camp meals June 10-August 18, plus additional paid training days during the weeks of May 28-June 8. For position descriptions, pay, and shift schedules, e-mail Elizabeth Haley at CampBethelArk@gmail.com. Apply at www.CampBethelVirginia.org/summer-staff.
SUBSCRIBE TO OUR MONTHLY E-NEWS at www.CampBethelVirginia.org/subscribe. Facebook, IG, & YouTube as “CampBethelVirginia.”
UPCOMING CAMP BETHEL EVENTS:
December 30 10am—December 31, 2pm: Winter Camp Youth & Kids’ Retreat
January 8, 2018: Summer Camp Registration OPENS.
February 16, 2018 (Fri): CPR w/ AED Certification Training.
February 17-18, 2017 (Sat-Sun): Wilderness First Aid Certification Training.
February 17, 2018 (Sat), 12:00noon: Camp Supporter Lunch, RSVP.
March 8, 2018 (Thurs), 6:30pm: Sow the Seed Campership Banquet, RSVP.
April 7, 2018 (Sat) 7:30am Spring Workday & 1:00pm Luncheon.
April 27-28, 2018 (Fri-Sat): 17th Sounds of the Mountains Festival.
May 25-28, 2018: Memorial Day Family Weekend & Concerts, RSVP meals.
May 26, 2018 (Sat), Family Day/Summer Camp Open House, 1:00-4:00pm.
May 28-June 8, 2018: Summer Staff Training.
June 1-2, 2018: Parent-Child Overnight Camp.
June 8, 2018 (Fri) 5:30pm: Staff Commissioning Dinner/Family Picnic.
June 10–August 3, 2018: Summer Camps & Family Adventures.
July 22-August 18, 2018: Guest Camps & Band Camps.
August 22, 2018 (Wed): 24th Annual Benefit Golf Tournament & Banquet.
August 25, 2018 (Sat): Camp Bethel PEP! 5K Run/Walk.
August 31-Sept 3, 2018: Labor Day Family Weekend.
October 6, 2018 (Sat): 34th annual Heritage Day Festival.
November 3, 2018 (Sat): Fall Volunteer Workday.
November 9-10, 2018: Virlina District Conference, location TBD.
November 11-15, 2018 (Sun-Thu): OMA National Retreat at Camp Bethel.
November 12, 2018 (Mon): Crisis Management Workshop 11:00am-4:00pm.
December 1, 2018 (Sat): Virlina District Board/OMC day at Camp Bethel.
December 6, 2018 (Thu): Christmas TOGETHER Banquet.
December 28, 2018 (Fri): Summer Staff Reunion & Potluck Dinner.
December 29-30, 2018: Winter Camp Youth & Kids’ Retreat.
