Legacy of Leadership Fund
This donor-supported fund assists United Methodist Camp/Retreat Ministry leaders (staff and volunteers) in accessing training opportunities.

The UMCRM Board has recently updated the Legacy of Leadership Scholarship Guidelines to reflect a more equitable and strategic distribution process. Previously awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, scholarships are now distributed through a structured application and review process, with three open application windows each year—in January/February, March, and August/September. Applications are reviewed based on demonstrated financial need, the applicant’s commitment to leadership in United Methodist camp and retreat ministries, and alignment with the strategic priorities of the Legacy of Leadership Fund. These priorities include equipping current and emerging leaders, expanding access to training for individuals from underrepresented communities, and strengthening the long-term effectiveness of UMCRM leadership.

Applications include a statement of financial need, a letter of support from a supervisor, and a description of how the applicant plans to implement their learnings. Scholarship awards may cover full or partial tuition and a portion of travel or lodging expenses.

If you have a time-sensitive need between the designated application windows, please apply anyway and we'll do our best to process your request in a timely way. 

Note: Recipients are only eligible for one Legacy of Leadership scholarship in each 2-year period. 

Apply for a Scholarship Give to the Legacy of Leadership Fund
New! Retiree Scholarship
Come back to the National Gathering!

Exciting news: A generous retired UMC camp/retreat ministry leader has made a special gift to the UMCRM Association to support retired members' participation in the 2027 National Camp & Retreat Leaders' Gathering.

The scholarship covers the program fee, including all meals, for the 2027 UMCRM National Gathering, held January 24-28 at Zephyr Point, Lake Tahoe, Nevada. Retiree scholarships will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis until all funds have been distributed. Applications are open NOW!

The friendship, perspective, and expertise of our longtime community members remains a valuable asset to our Association. Please help spread the word. 

View the application form
Solomon Cramer Fund
Applications are due annually in the first quarter.

The Solomon Cramer Fund was established to provide scholarships for youth to attend United Methodist camp experiences. Annual Conferences, camp ministry sites, and/or programs are invited to apply. 

2026 Grant applications closed March 20. Approved grant projects should be completed by October. 

Ministry Impact Grants

The Ministry Impact Grant has given us so much to celebrate! After unexpectedly multiplying the 2022 grant to $2.5 million dollars supporting 86 funded projects, in 2023 the anonymous family foundation reached out to provide another challenging and generous grant opportunity for United Methodist Camp and Retreat Ministries. In the second round of Ministry Impact Grants, $1.7 million funded 68 projects across the United States. 

View 2023 Grant Recipients