Central Illinois Lutheran Camping Association

The Central Illinois Lutheran Camping Association (CILCA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing outdoor ministries and camping experiences. It operates as a 501(c)(3) public charity with the EIN 37-0692346.

Mission and Programs

CILCA is focused on establishing, maintaining, and operating camps and camping facilities to foster Christian education and fellowship. The organization emphasizes the spiritual, intellectual, social, and physical well-being of its participants, primarily targeting members of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod.

CILCA offers a variety of programs, including week-long summer camps for students of all ages and abilities, outdoor education initiatives for local students, and diverse camping options for individuals, families, and groups. The camp features rustic and all-weather sleeping cabins, campsites for tents, trailers, RVs, and pop-ups, a swimming lake with a beach, athletic fields, a Challenge Course, and indoor and outdoor chapel spaces.

Volunteer and Donation Opportunities

CILCA encourages community involvement through various volunteer opportunities. These include high school volunteer events, Eagle Scout projects, and adult positions in roles such as medics, pastors, kitchen staff, and maintenance personnel. The organization also seeks donations, which are tax-deductible, to support its activities and facilities.

Affiliations and Partnerships

CILCA collaborates with local Lutheran churches and organizations, receiving support from entities like Thrivent Financial for Lutherans for project funding. The organization is recognized under the National Lutheran Outdoor Ministry Association (NLOMA) for its summer staff and programs.

Facilities and Events

Located on 225 acres of woodland and open fields, CILCA offers an expansive natural setting conducive to its outdoor-focused mission. The facility hosts numerous service events and projects, often involving local youth and communities in maintenance and development activities.