Home Office Weekly Update
November 14, 2024
2024 UYC Camp Director Conference
The 2024 United Youth Camps (UYC) Camp Director Conference was held this week at the home office, where camp directors gathered to share ideas, discuss challenges and plan for the future of UYC camps. Celebrating its 26th year, this conference offered a chance for directors to reflect on past successes and collaborate on ways to improve the camp experience for both campers and staff.
Conference overview
The conference kicked off with a warm welcome from the president, Rick Shabi, and Ministerial and Member Services operation manager, Steve Myers. They emphasized the importance of unity and support within the UYC program, setting a positive tone for the discussions that followed. Their remarks helped to highlight the shared mission of the camps and reminded everyone of the value of working together toward a common goal.
Len Martin and Aaron Creech, the overall directors of the UYC program, led the meetings. Directors from the six U.S. teen camps and eight preteen camps, and their wives, attended the conference both in person and online. It was noted that nearly 1,100 campers attended UYC summer camps (both teen and preteen) this past year, with Winter Camp just six weeks away.
Camp directors share insights
A major part of the conference was dedicated to the camp directors sharing feedback on their camps. Both teen and preteen camp directors presented reports, offering valuable insights on what went well at camp and what challenges they faced. Topics included camp facilities, staffing, finances and camper experiences. These discussions provided an opportunity for directors to learn from each other, share practical ideas and identify areas that could be improved.
Christian Living focus
The theme for the 2025 camp season and the development of daily Christian Living content were central focuses throughout the conference. Aaron Creech facilitated the discussion, where directors collaborated on the topics and discussed how to effectively implement them at each camp. The goal is to ensure that every camp day reflects the Word of God and provides a spiritual perspective for all campers.
Staff training was another key topic. Directors discussed how to improve staff training to make sure everyone—new and returning staff alike—is well-prepared for their roles. There was also a focus on improving medical staffing, with the goal of providing the best care for campers, including those with specific medical needs.
Improving the camper experience
Throughout the conference, directors focused on ways to improve the overall camper experience. They also took time to evaluate camper and staff shirts, considering changes in design, policy, and even laundry logistics for the coming year. These discussions are part of the ongoing effort to make sure every detail of camp life contributes to a positive experience for all.
Looking ahead
The conference also included discussions about the 2025 camp video, camp brochure and website updates, which keep parents, campers and the Church informed. These materials help spread the word about UYC camps and ensure everyone is aware of both the importance of camp and upcoming events and activities.
The 2024 UYC Camp Director Conference brought together experienced leaders and fresh ideas to strengthen the foundation of the UYC program. Through thoughtful discussions and a commitment to continuous improvement, the conference helped set the stage for UYC camps to continue offering life-changing experiences to campers and support for the dedicated staff that make it all happen.
Looking ahead to 2025, the focus on unity, innovation and excellence promises to keep UYC camps grounded in the Word of God, providing campers with a unique experience that offers a glimpse of the Kingdom of God.
The success of UYC camps would not be possible without the dedication and hard work of all the camp directors and staff. We appreciate their passion, commitment and tireless efforts, which ensure that each camp season is impactful, safe and spiritually enriching for every camper. A heartfelt thanks goes to all those who make camp possible, as their contributions truly make a difference in the lives of so many.
—Steve Myers, Operation Manager, Ministerial and Member Services
Articles and Writers Needed for Compass Check
Do you have an idea for an article for our teen magazine, Compass Check? Or, maybe you’re willing to write, but need an idea? Regardless of your age or writing experience, we would love to see what you have to offer.
The process of writing for Compass Check is easy and fun. Plus, if you’re a student, you might be able to use it to get some extra credit! If you have an idea or would like to learn more about writing for Compass Check, please contact us at compasscheck@ucg.org.
UCG 2025 Midwest Teen Prom
Registration is open for the UCG Midwest Teen Prom in 2025! We are planning to have it Saturday, March 15 at the Encore Hotel in Berlin, Ohio. This gorgeous hotel will again be a beautiful backdrop for our theme this year, “Secret Garden.”
This annual event welcomes more than 100 teens from states all around the country. The weekend includes a meet and greet Friday evening and a special Sabbath, followed by a formal dinner and prom that evening. Seniors will have a special recognition right before the dinner that parents can join. We are also planning to have a sports/social event on Sunday March 16 prior to departure, so we hope you'll plan to stay a bit longer on Sunday to allow the teens this extra social time.
More information about registrations and hotel accommodations can be found on our website www.midwestteenprom.com. We can’t wait to see everyone!
If you have any questions, please contact Sabrina Massie at (919) 943-9966 or sabrinamassie13@gmail.com.
REMINDER: Listen to UCG Radio
With the rise of new streaming technologies, UCG Radio was launched in 2017 as an initiative of the Church in Australia to present content from the rich ucg.org audio archive in a traditional radio manner. Although audio is available online or via podcasts, the radio format serves up an interesting line-up of material without requiring the listener to search for it.
After a successful trial period, UCG Australia Radiobecame UCG Radio and currently serves the globe on behalf of the United Church of God, an International Association.
Content contributors to the station include the Church ministry and faculty, qualified volunteer teachers, readers, and a growing number of Church members who have provided voice recordings. Our audio Bible has been sourced from suppliers who have kindly made their dramatized readings of the Bible freely available upon our request. Our music is royalty free, or we have been graciously granted permission for its use by its owners.
Make listening to UCG Radio a part of your daily listening or podcast routine.
Puget Sound Women’s Enrichment Weekend: “Nourish to Flourish”
The Puget Sound Women's Enrichment Weekend will be held Feb. 28 to March 2, 2025 in La Conner, Washington. Click for the online registration form.
Registration deadline is Feb. 2, 2025, for full-weekend attendees. Single-day attendee deadline is Feb. 14, 2025.
The weekend will be held at: La Conner Country Inn, 107 S. Second Street, La Conner, WA. 98257
REMINDER: Winter Family Weekend Registration
The Cincinnati, Ohio Winter Family Weekend is coming soon! Opening night is Tuesday, Dec. 24, with events running through Saturday evening, Dec. 28.
It’s IMPERATIVE to check wfw.ucg.org frequently for updates and important instructions. General registration is now, Nov. 14–29.
Please visit the website for specific registration details. You’ll also find information about the hotel and eligible booking dates there.