Why Should Board Members Attend the Annual Conference?
by Lorraine Burch, Board Member at Sherbrooke Lake Camp in Franey Corner, Nova Scotia![](https://campfire-collective.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/OMI-Members-at-the-2023-Annual-Conference-300x225.jpg)
Lorraine Burch (in the purple sweatshirt) is pictured here with other camp leaders from the Outdoor Ministries Institute
I was one of the board members who attended the Campfire Collective Annual Conference 2023 at Ferncliff. I am so glad I did! I met amazing staff and volunteers from all across the United States and Canada. These folks make their organizations thrive! I learned so much from them and all the amazing workshop presenters. Being there helped me recognize more deeply my role as a figurehead of our camp and I was able to understand the beauty and the challenge faced by multi-generational boards like ours.
Why was the Annual Conference such a great experience?
- I was able to network. I met with lots of likeminded people from all different geographical areas. We shared stories and contacts, and the exhibit hall was amazing too - a wealth of resource information was available.
- I was able to expand my knowledge and find solutions to problems. I heard things that were new to me - new techniques, new types of equipment, unpublished data, etc. I had the opportunity to ask presenters questions about their work and the rationale behind it.
- I benefited from the sacred spaces and the opportunities to sing together in praise.
- The social events were meaningful, fun, uplifting, and thought-provoking!
- The food was GREAT!
- The camp setting was "next level" beautiful and comfortable.
- EVERYONE was so welcoming, enthusiastic, and energetic.
It was a perfect event! Thank you to all the hard-working planners and volunteers. All the best for the Annual Conference in 2024. I encourage all board members to register- your time will be well spent and you will not be disappointed!