Legacy giving is one of the most meaningful ways supporters can contribute to organizations that have shaped their lives, ensuring these institutions continue to thrive for generations. According to Good Works’ State of the Legacy Nation 2023 Report, two million Canadians have included charities in their wills or expressed intentions to do so within the next decade. These gifts are incredibly stable, even during uncertain times, making them an essential pillar of support for charities and not-for-profit organizations. Good Works estimates that there are gifts in wills totalling $280 billion in Canada. (That number is equivalent to the GDPs of Saskatchewan, Manitoba, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia combined!)

For Stayner Camp and Camp Mishewah, legacy giving represents not just a contribution to financial sustainability, but a commitment to nurturing future generations in their spiritual journeys as well. “Legacy Giving is a wonderful way for people who have been impacted in their Christian walk through our wonderful ECM camps…to invest back into the future of the camps, ensuring that the next generation also benefit from the camps” says Nancy Cressman, daughter of Gerald (Tim) and Mary Ann Timlock.

Tim and Mary Ann, long-time supporters of both camps who played a key role in the beginnings of Camp Mishewah in the 1970’s, made the intentional choice to include ECM Camps in their will. This decision was rooted in their own faith journeys, which were deeply tied to their experiences at our camps.

“Dad’s spiritual journey began at Bethany church where, being from a non-Christian home, a friend invited him to attend. His Sunday School teacher, Gordon Stauffer, led him to the Lord and covered the fee for him to attend Trail of the Pines Camp. Thus began his, and later Mom’s, love for camp and their annual spiritual growth and refreshment each summer through serving in the many aspects of the camps and enjoying the fun and activities each year” Nancy remembers. “We were so pleased that they included legacy money to the camps at their passing and know that by contributing to the legacy program, it will help to ensure the camps continue to have a great impact on future generations.” 

The Timlock family’s story highlights how a simple act of generosity — paying for a child’s week of camp — can inspire a lifetime of giving and service. This legacy continues through their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and now, through Tim and Mary Ann’s legacy gifts, supports ECM Camps’ mission for generations to come.

Why Legacy Giving is Vital for ECM Camps

Legacy gifts provide a dependable stream of funding that enables ECM Camps to:

• Expand Access: Ensure more children and families can experience camp regardless of financial barriers.
• Enhance Facilities: Maintain and upgrade our properties and facilities, ensuring a safe and enriching environment for everyone who steps onto the groups.
• Support Programs: Develop activities and resources that foster spiritual growth, community building, and life-changing experiences.

How to Leave Your Legacy

Including ECM Camps in your estate plans is a simple yet impactful way to ensure the camps remain a place of spiritual renewal and joy for decades to come. Organizations like Abundance Canada offer fantastic resources for creating a will that reflects your values and ensures that your charitable goals are met.

Legacy giving is a meaningful way to ensure that life-changing experiences at Stayner and Mishewah remain accessible for future generations. From creating lifelong friendships to fostering spiritual growth, these camps leave a lasting impact on attendees and their families. By including a gift in your will, you can reflect your gratitude while investing in a future where Mishewah and Stayner continue to touch lives, build faith, and create cherished memories.

Questions? Don’t hesitate to get in touch with our Stewardship Team at [email protected]