Community Conversations

What happens when camps intentionally invest in emerging leaders beyond their own gates? Join this Community Conversation to hear powerful, firsthand stories from the Summer Staff Exchange Program's pilot summer including a participant whose experience reshaped their sense of calling and camp leaders who discovered unexpected benefits for their teams, culture, and ministry.

You will gain practical insight into what worked, what was learned, and how the program is being strengthened for 2026. If you are looking for fresh ways to develop staff, build leadership capacity, and contribute to the future of camp and retreat ministry, this conversation will spark ideas and invite you into what is next.

Special Note: Community Is at the Heart of Community Conversations and We Are Reclaiming It
Community Conversations are getting a refresh in 2026, and we are excited to begin the year by returning to what made these gatherings meaningful in the first place: connection, shared wisdom, and learning from one another. Community Conversations will follow a new, more relational flow designed to spark deeper engagement and practical insight. Learn more about the refresh by watching this short video!

Small group discussion questions for the upcoming Community Conversation include: "Where do you already see leadership potential emerging among your summer staff?" and "What might hosting an exchange participant make possible at your camp?"

All are welcome. Bring your curiosity, your experience, and your voice.