Empowering Camp and Retreat Ministries to Thrive
With extensive experience in directing and assessing ministries within the United Methodist and other denominations, I am here to work with you to create a healthier culture in your context so that strategic changes can be successfully implemented. I bring expertise in personnel management, faith-based community organizing, camp and retreat ministry, interim camp directing at nine sites with three denominations across the country, teaching interim camp and retreat directors, professional coaching, and spiritual direction. I “wear many hats” and switch them often, so you can succeed.
Acting as coach, educator, and consultant, I collaborate with leaders seeking to create functional systems of decision-making. A healthy systemic culture with clarity regarding responsibility, authority, accountability, and information-sharing can more successfully implement strategic recommendations. My collaborative approach looks to the history of the ministry to see where old patterns are replicating themselves in the present, encourages hard and ultimately fruitful conversations, and coaches participants into new ways of understanding each other, their ministry, their own cultural context, and the larger culture’s impact on their ministry. The ultimate goal of our partnership is to empower your ministry to flourish, leading to financial sustainability and mission attainment.
I do not write a report and then move to my next consultancy. I coach those I work with into implementation by asking questions, educating about best practices, identifying functional and less functional patterns of decision-making. A healthy decision-making matrix allows clients to implement my strategic recommendations.
I bring knowledge and expertise and learn from you the uniqueness of your particular context. I walk with you through the entire process.
Culture Eats Strategy for Lunch
As we embark on this transformative journey together, it’s essential to recognize that culture is the foundation upon which successful strategies are built. While having a clear vision and expert guidance for your strategic plan is vital, it is a strong, healthy culture that ultimately drives implementation and sustainable growth. Together, we will foster a culture of thoughtful decision-making that empowers your team to embrace change and collaborate effectively. By creating an environment where clarity thrives and collaboration flourishes, we will ensure that your camp and retreat ministry is not only equipped with a solid plan but also with the cultural framework needed to bring that plan to life. This commitment to nurturing a positive culture will enable us to navigate challenges with resilience and celebrate successes as a unified community. Let’s build a culture that supports your mission and propels your vision forward.
Consultation Process
My consultation is structured into four phases, tailored to meet the needs of each camp and retreat ministry:
Phase 1: Initial Assessment
• Site visits to observe programs and facilities
• Meetings with Camp Directors, Board Chairs, and judicatory decision-makers focused on governance, strengths, challenges, and history
• Follow-up conversations
• Written and verbal report of observations and suggested next steps
Expected time for completion: 1-3 months
Phase 2: Listening Sessions
• Create and lead listening sessions with camp supporters focused on strengths, challenges, and future hopes
• Provide reports from listening sessions
• Educate stakeholders on best practices for sustainability
• Establish a RACI (Responsibility, Authority, ACcountability, Information-sharing) matrix and covenant for future interactions amongst decision-making stakeholders
Expected time for completion: 2-6 months
Phase 3: Strategic Planning
• Review mission statements and answer “why do we have camps?”
• Complete a “Healthy Camp and Retreat Ministry” Checklist
• Present a strategic plan for sustainability
Expected time for completion: 1-3 months
Phase 4: Implementation Coaching
• Guide decision-makers through the implementation process for sustainability
• Provide ongoing coaching, as needed
The timeline for this phase will vary based on the needs of those implementing the plan
Contact Melinda
If you are interested in discussing how I can support your camp and retreat ministries, please reach out!