Each year, UMCRM honors the legacy of the Rev. Solomon Graydon Cramer by awarding grants to United Methodist-affiliated camp programs. Rev. Cramer believed strongly in the life-changing impact of Christian camp experiences for deepening discipleship among young people. He generously dedicated a portion of his will to fund participation in United Methodist camps. Since 2017, this annual source of grants has provided camperships and seed funding for creative new United Methodist camp initiatives with focus on one or more of these priorities:
- Ministering with young people living in poverty
- Developing young people as spiritual leaders
- Collaborating with faith communities engaged in vital congregation processes of their Annual Conference
- Expanding opportunities for leadership by young people from underserved racial groups or ethnic populations
Last year, $34K was distributed among 10 United Methodist camp ministries with grants ranging from $2K to $4K. The 2024 grant cycle is open for the next 4 weeks. UMCRM members are encouraged to consider new partnerships and programs that address the goals listed above and apply for a grant from this year's Solomon Cramer Fund. Apply now
Join us in celebrating the 2023 projects and glean ideas that might be adapted in your ministry context. Read the blog post