2010--Wow!  Not too long ago, we were worried about Y2K.  Where has the time gone?  We are already asking that as we continue forward in 2010.  As we look forward to what is in store for 2010, we want to take a few moments to thank you for your support of Lake Swan Camp in the past and let you know what God has done in 2009.  We also want to thank you for allowing God to use you in His plan for the camp.  Thank you for your continued faithfulness through your prayers and financial support!  Our 2009 success could not have been possible without you!

As we look back over 2009, we praise the Lord for His mercy and grace.  As a staff, we served over 6,000 campers and retreaters and served over 30,000 meals.  Whether these guests were exploring God's creation, hearing the word of God, or fellowshipping around the table, during their stay here at Lake Swan Camp, these campers and retreaters were touched by God, their lives changed and hearts restored.  However, we cannot just look at the numbers.  God moved throughout the camp this past year, and it is through His works that we rejoice!  God provided for the camp, the guests, and the staff.

We sing His praise because of how He demonstrated His provisions this year.  In 2009, we made a commitment with the owner of our property to meet three goals for the year.  With God's provisions, we were able to not just meet these goals, but also to exceed them!  We met our camper day goal; we also met our goal to make improvements around the camp.  Our third goal was to end the year with a surplus in our bank account, and we are thankful to say that for 2009, Lake Swan Camp was operated completely from operations and ended the year with a little extra to begin 2010.  For the first time in many years, we were able to operate and not ask for donations from our Friends in order just to make ends meet.  God is good all the time! 

What does this mean in terms of your financial support?  The money given in support of the camp was used to make improvements around camp.  Many improvements were made around camp in 2009, including handicap accessible bathrooms in the Fireside Room, a larger storage area in the back of the Kitchen, the Old Chapel received a much needed fresh coat of paint on the inside, and the second set of stairs to the 2-Story Dorm were replace to mention a few of the improvements we have seen.  As this update is being written, the bathrooms in the Lakeside Hotel are being renovated, as well as the Low Block Dorm rooms receiving a fresh coat of paint.  We are excited about the improvements going on around camp! 

We are also thankful for all of the volunteers that have put their time and resources into improving camp.  Without each of you, we would not be able to make the improvements that have been made this past year.  Your hard work and perseverance are a blessing to us!

How can you help us in 2010?  First and foremost, we ask for your prayers.  We know that it is through giving the camp to the Lord that we are able to give forward.  We want to move within His plan, and know that can only come by seeking His plan.  Thank you for praying for us!  If you would like to know what to specifically pray for, please do not hesitate to contact me, Stacie, at directorlsc@aol.com.

Second, we are continuing to improve camp, and can do this only though donations.  If you would like to make a donation, please send the donation to:

Lake Swan Camp

647 SR 26

Melrose, FL 32666

Third, we have a wish list.  Here are items that we could use to continue in our ministry:

-Board Games, puzzles, etc.

-Golfcart

-Recreational equipment (volleyballs, basketballs, kickballs, jump ropes, baseball equipment, soccer balls, etc.)

-Ski jackets, particularly kids' sizes)

-Watertubes, skis, wakeboards, kneeboards

-Sheets (Twin, Queen, and King sizes)

-Comforters (Queen and King sizes)

-Towels

-Curtains and Curtain Rods

-Assistance with purchasing wooden bunk beds

-Weed whacker

-Canoe life jackets and oars

-Craft supplies

If you have other items and think we might be able to use them, please call us at 352-475-2828.

Fourth, we also have opportunities for work projects if you have a group that would like to help:

-Painting projects (inside and out)

-Adopt a motel room

-Long House repair/renovation

-Staff Lounge Renovation

If you are interested in helping us with these or other projects, please call us at 352-475-2828.

Thank you for your support as we continue with our ministry!