Summer Camps Can Save Money By Using A Free CORD Group Purchasing Membership

Summer camps are a great option for parents who want to provide their children with a summer experience that combines fun and adventure with spiritual growth. Many camps are faith-based ministries and offer a wide range of activities that are designed to strengthen children’s faith and build a great sense of community.

The planning and preparation for a faith-based summer camp starts several months before the camp season begins. This period is crucial for camps to organize and secure all the necessary resources to run a successful and safe camp. Many camps start the planning process as early as January or February, which gives them ample time to prepare for the upcoming summer season.

What kind of preparation is needed for the camp season?

To get set up for the camp season, there are a number of tasks that need to be completed by the camp staff. These tasks include, but not limited to:

• Building Maintenance: Camps must ensure that all buildings and facilities are in good condition before the campers arrive. This may include repairs, renovations, and regular maintenance tasks such as painting, cleaning, and landscaping.
  
• Staff Training and Hiring: Summer camps need to hire and train staff who will be responsible for the safety and well-being of the campers. This includes hiring counselors, lifeguards, and other support staff.
  
• Ordering Food for Cafeterias: Faith-based camps must order food for their cafeteria to feed campers and staff. This includes ordering enough food for the entire camp season, which requires planning and budgeting for the number of campers and staff expected.
  
• Bedding and Cleaning Supplies: Camps need to purchase bedding and cleaning supplies for the campers. This includes buying enough linens, blankets, and pillows for each camper and staff, and cleaning supplies like soap, laundry detergent, and sanitizers.
  
• Safety and Emergency Preparedness: Faith-based camps must ensure that they have the necessary safety and emergency equipment on hand, and that staff are trained in emergency procedures. This includes first aid kits, fire extinguishers, and emergency communication equipment.
  
• Activities and Equipment: Camps need to purchase and prepare equipment and materials for the various activities that they offer. This includes sports equipment, arts and crafts materials, and outdoor gear such as camping and hiking equipment.

What kind of activities to faith-based camps provide?

The activities offered at faith-based summer camps are diverse and cater to different interests. Some of the common activities include:

• Bible Studies and Worship Services: These activities are central to the mission of faith-based camps and help children to deepen their understanding of their faith. The Bible studies may be interactive and involve discussions and group activities, while worship services may include singing, praying, and listening to sermons.
  
• Sports and recreation: Faith-based camps often offer a variety of sports and recreational activities such as swimming, hiking, camping, and team sports like basketball and soccer. These activities not only help children to stay active and healthy, but also provide opportunities for teamwork and camaraderie.
  
• Arts and Crafts: Many faith-based camps offer arts and crafts programs that allow children to explore their creative side. These activities can include painting, drawing, and pottery. These activities can also be used as a way to teach children about different aspects of their faith.
  
• Outdoor Activities: Faith-based camps often take place in the great outdoors, and many camps offer activities that take advantage of this. Activities such as hiking, nature walks, and camping provide children with opportunities to connect with nature and to learn about the environment.

How can camps save money on their annual budget?

A group purchasing organization (GPO) like CORD can help faith-based summer camps save up to 30% money on the common purchases needed to set up and deliver a life changing camp experience for our youth. GPOs work by pooling the purchasing power of multiple organizations to negotiate better prices on a wide range of products and services, and a CORD membership is absolutely FREE.