Where to Begin: Key Planning Options for Your Camp

Ryan Moore
Consultant
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As your organization moves from one busy season to the next, it is common to notice areas that need attention, refinement, or new direction. Camps and retreat centers evolve constantly, and setting aside intentional time to evaluate your operations is essential for long-term growth.

If you have identified places that need work but are unsure where to begin, the overview below breaks down several common areas organizations focus on when planning for the future.

Assessments

If you are unsure where to start, a comprehensive assessment is often the best first step. You cannot work on site plans or strategic planning without understanding which parts of your organization need improvement. Working with a knowledgeable consultant, like Kaleidoscope, Inc., can help you identify areas of growth through a complete assessment.

We know the ins and outs of camps and retreat centers and can accurately measure your program operations in relation to a growing and thriving industry. When conducting assessments, we look at:

  • Financial reviews, operating and capital
  • Site and facilities
  • Staffing models
  • Market availability and competition
  • Program models and delivery
  • Use analysis of all guests and groups

Knowledge is power. With a proper assessment, your organization can clearly identify the best course of action for strengthening your programming and operations.

Strategic Planning

What are the next key steps of growth for your camp, and how do they lead to the next chapter?

Strategic planning can focus on many aspects of your organization, but ultimately it defines who you are and clarifies what actions need to be taken to achieve your goals. Growth is difficult without a clear mission, vision, and set of initiatives.

Our team partners with your leadership to define strategies for growth based on your goals. This may include:

  • Creating or refining your mission and vision
  • Creating a road map to reach organizational goals
  • Developing business plans that support programming growth
  • Developing your board and governing partners
  • Creating comprehensive financial plans
  • Enriching leadership and team development

Master Site Planning

What new or updated facilities or program areas would enhance your program or allow you to welcome more guests?

Facilities are central to the camp experience. Every building, cabin, bunk, and hall supports your program, and although each serves a different function, they all rely on one another.

We often think of master site planning like solving a Rubik’s Cube. If you match one color, you cannot expect the others to automatically align. All of the pieces of your master site must work together to complete the picture. A great site plan takes your vision, programming, and operations and creates a coordinated blueprint.

At Kaleidoscope, Inc., we have a talented team of camp consultants, site planners, and architects ready to bring your vision to life.

Marketing Planning

Do you feel like your organization is moving in the right direction, but you want to reach more people?

Marketing planning is a common and important focus area. You can have incredible programming and beautiful facilities, but if your audience never hears about them, enrollment will not support your business. A clear message that reaches the right people is essential for sustainability.

Working with a marketing consultant can help you create a comprehensive marketing plan designed specifically for your organization or a particular project. The plan then becomes a guide so you can focus your time on implementation and refinement.

Using Planning Time Intentionally

Whatever area you choose to focus on, use this planning period to create an action plan for the future. Take time to reflect on important questions such as:

  • What worked?
  • What did not work?
  • What do we let go of?
  • Where do we need to forgive?
  • What do we need to capture so we can do better next year?

If you would like to discuss scheduling planning services, please visit our website to book a consultation.