As we move into the summer of 2020, I am full of prayer and gratitude.
In my conversations about canceling Silver Lake’s on-site program with Executive Director the Rev. Ryan Gackenheimer, I felt sad for the young people who NEED the Silver Lake experience of safety, inclusion, faith, fun, and friendship. There is no question that Silver Lake changes lives. I invite you to join me in praying for those known and unknown to us who will not experience this transformational community this summer.
The Silver Lake Board is exceptionally grateful for your exceptional generosity! Since we announced that cancellation on May 1, the Silver Lake community has donated (as of late May) more than $32,400. Amazing! Awesome! This figure includes summer registration fees that were converted into donations and gifts from churches and individuals.
There is still time to be generous! Making a financial donation is the most effective way to help Silver Lake’s ministry right now. It’s easy to contribute: Go to
silverlakect.org/donate-now and find the box that says, “Silver Lake Conference Center (general support).” Thank you!
While we are on the topic of money, thank you to Southern New England Conference Bridge Conference Minsters, the Revs. Marilyn Kendrix, Don Remick, and Kent Siladi, and Executive Associate Conference Minister Charlie Kuchenbrod for designating Silver Lake as a key recipient of this year’s
Strengthen the Church offering.
The Silver Lake Board is hard at work on many projects:
Strategic Planning: We want to assess how well Silver Lake serves its summer campers, retreat guests, alumni, churches, and other users. Watch for an email survey later this summer.
Golf: This year’s Silver Lake Golf Tournament is Sept. 22 at
The Country Club of Waterbury. This is a very fun day at a beautiful golf course! Please consider golfing and/or sponsoring this event. Register at
silverlakect.org/golf.
Silver Lake Award Celebration and Fundraiser: The incomparable Valerie Tutson is our 2020 Silver Lake Award honoree! The celebration will be in early November — venue and registration information coming soon to
silverlakect.org/silverlakeaward2020. If you’d like to donate an item or service to the silent auction, contact us at
slcc@silverlakect.org.
The Silver Lake Board lifts up gratitude for our exceptional Silver Lake Staff. They have done a masterful job of keeping our campers engaged online this spring. They have also adapted our summer programs for
fun at home! The
Silver Lake At Home Box will maximize creative and outside time and minimize screen time. Remember, “grownup” campers are also invited to participate in “Camp in a Box”!
Finally, stay connected on Instagram and Facebook, including the Silver Lake Conference Center Alumni Group. It’s almost like being at camp!
For the Silver Lake Board of Directors,
Brian Lapis
Board Chair
