With nearly 40 years of experience in the camping industry, Mr. and Mrs. Whip-Poor-Will offer expert consultancy for those seeking to establish a successful Christian day camp. Their long and storied history began in 1982 with an inaugural season that sold out immediately, a trend that continued for decades across four different successful locations.
Betty Ruth Barker Wilkerson brings a deep academic and professional background to your project as a Director of Christian Education and a graduate in Bible and Christian Education. Complementing her educational expertise, Tom Wilkerson provides essential business acumen drawn from his background in corporate management, payroll, and personnel, alongside his hands-on experience as a camp naturalist and operational manager.
As consultants, they can guide you through every stage of a well-documented business plan, including:
- Defining Purpose and Philosophy: Helping you navigate the vital decision between a Christian or secular model and identifying the unique needs of your community.
- Operational Fundamentals: Providing expert advice on zoning, permits, liability insurance, and the appointment of company officers.
- Site and Facility Development: Designing intentional spaces such as “Homes in the Woods” and shared activity areas like lodges, pavilions, and fishing docks.
- Staffing and Recruitment: Sharing proven methods for recruiting, interviewing, and training high-quality Christian counselors and youth volunteers who serve as the “heartbeat” of camp life.
- Curriculum and Activities: Implementing a diverse program including archery, leather crafting, gardening, and Bible studies (BKK), all while utilizing “situational teaching” to nurture children’s spiritual growth naturally throughout the day.
- Financial Sustainability: Establishing cash flow methods through holiday events, family festivals, and year-round programming to ensure your camp thrives.
Mr. and Mrs. Whip-Poor-Will are dedicated to the joy of serving others and believe that a clearly defined purpose is the absolute necessity for any camp leader. They can teach you how to create a camp that not only provides outdoor fun but also promotes growth in maturity, self-esteem, and trust for every child. Their consultancy is designed to help you “build a camp… reach a child… and influence a youth” for good within your community.
To begin your journey in creating a magical summer environment where children can feel God’s presence in the out-of-doors, you can contact Mr. and Mrs. Whip-Poor-Will through their camp organization.