Miracle Camp and Retreat Center in Lawton, Michigan, has faced significant challenges since it began in 1965, like the 2008 U.S. financial crisis and unpredictable weather. But, when Ross Adams stepped into the executive director role in January, Miracle Camp and Retreat Center was about to experience the most challenging year of its 55-year history.
Ross Adams and his wife, Pam, are new to Miracle Camp, but they aren’t new to the camping industry. Having worked at camps in Colorado, Texas, California, Nebraska, and most recently at Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, he brought 30 years of experience in the camping industry to his new role in January. But, by March, he and the staff at Miracle Camp were faced with a new challenge, a viral pandemic and the subsequent quarantine. By following health and safety protocols, Miracle Camp prepared to host campers this summer.
During a typical summer, Miracle Camp hosts 1400 school-aged students. This year, the staff made adjustments in activities to meet American Camp Association and the State of Michigan’s safety guidelines and opened to about 1000 campers. After a 14-day screening process before arrival and screening upon arrival, the campers stayed in small cohorts. These cohorts shared a cabin and participated in daily activities together. Because of these changes, many campers reported a more positive experience than previous years, developing deeper friendships and participating in more activities.
While many Michigan camps did not open this summer, Miracle Camp has continued to operate, hosting groups into the fall at 50% capacity and planning for winter camps. Adams admits that support from churches and donors has kept Miracle Camp operating. Their budget shortfall is being supplemented through the Build a Bridge campaign this summer and another campaign this fall to keep the facility going until next spring and summer. Donations can be made at MiracleCamp.com.
