Fundraising
Camp Monahan has a rich tradition of serving the community and the Archdiocese of Regina since 1945. We estimate that over 17,000 campers, staff, and volunteers have experienced our summer camp program. To ensure this rich tradition continues, we have dedicated ourselves to sustaining and improving, growing and modernizing, repairing and rebuilding. Our fundraising focuses on these three areas to build a strong camp that will continue to serve our community.
In 2020, when COVID caused the closure of our camping season we suffered a loss of approximately $140, 000 in camper revenue. Without the support of our community, we would not have made it through the season. We recognize the need to establish a contingency fund that will support camp through the unforeseen challenges of the future. In 2021 we were able to run a successful camping season and secure funding for the upcoming year. We will continue to build on our operating costs and a contingency fund that will support us in the future.
Operations
Dining Hall Renovation
Our Kitchen renovation is an ongoing project that began in 020 with upgrading our public washrooms. In the summer of 2021, through the generosity of our supporters, we added stainless steel counters and sinks, and installed a commercial dishwasher, improving the sanitation standards for all who come to camp! We were also able to replace our old walk-in cooler with a commercial refrigerator and install new flooring. New stove, shelving and windows, were all installed in 2022. The final phase of our Dining Hall renovation will begin soon and details on the fundraising for this our largest project for the Dining Hall will be coming soon!
We are continuously evaluating the programming at Monahan and working to make add elements that add fun and challenge our campers. In recent year we have added two water trampolines to our waterfront. These Bongo’s are loads of fun for our campers and this is a popular place for campers to play and hang out on warm sunny days. The launcher and slide made them even more fun! A bouldering wall was added to our Craft hall in 2022 and is an activity that campers enjoy challenging themselves! New programs include a wilderness leadership trip in Northern Saskatchewan, Day camps, Waterfront safety course and a residential teen camp.
Program Development -
Planning for the future: Revitalization and Sustainability Plan
In 2020 with COVID 19, camp was presented with a whole new set of challenges. For the first time in 76 years, the shores did not echo with the sounds of laughter and song. This step away from the usual business of the summer season gave us an opportunity to reflect and look at where we are and where we want to be. It also reminded us that we can not take what we have for granted. We believe that in good planning is required to ensure the continued good work that comes from camp. Our fundraising and planning for the future is based on a foundation of repair and rebuild, growth and modernization, sustain and improve.
Repair and Rebuild
Many of our existing structures require attention to ensure their longevity and improve the overall grounds of camp. Our goal is to choose long lasting, maintenance free materials. Most buildings require siding, shingles, new flooring and paint.
Growth and Modernization
It is our goal to grow Camp Monahan by modernizing our recreation activities and creating programming to support the goals of schools, churches and youth ministry. In doing this we will be able provide more opportunities to involve the youth of our community at every level.
Sustain and Improve
We aim to introduce winterized facilities and upgraded programming to support our communities and provide a year-round source of income. We will continuously monitor and evaluate existing programs and structures to provide progressive and relevant development in these areas.