Operation Facelift Update

Operation Facelift is a long-term program to insure the long-term viability and sustainability of our beloved St Francis Camp on the Lake. After 40 years of wear and tear, upgrades and repairs to the buildings and facilities must be made to continue to provide the best possible experiences for our wonderful Campers and Staff. 

Recap of 2024 Operation Facelift

1. Alhambra Hall and Knights Hall were re-lamped with energy efficient LED bulbs. Working with Consumers Energy third party providers, SFC was able to re-lamp the buildings and outside areas with energy-efficient lighting that has reduced the monthly electrical costs with much better lighting. 

2. The outdoor lighting was also replaced with energy efficient light standards that provide better lighting for safety and security and cost savings. 

3. Total out of pocket expense to SFC for the indoor and outdoor projects was $3,825.96, which represented 50% of the total cost of the project. 

4. Upgrades to the Camp’s well water system were required. Liberty Plumbing from Jackson MI performed the necessary work at a cost of $6,368.00. 

5. Landscaping on the southeast side of Alhambra Hall was completed in August, Unsightly weeds, stumps, and rocks were removed by R-N-D Dirtworks from Grass Lake MI. A mulch barrier was laid down with egg rocks on top of it. The area looks so much better. R-N-D donated the eight hours of labor for their crew to do the job. The cost to SFC for materials was $700.   

Plans for 2025

1. A Building Committee was formed in late 2024 to study the present and future needs of the Camp’s infrastructure. 

2. The Committee has been meeting by Zoom and has had one Onsight meeting.

3. Currently the committee is looking at repurposing the existing buildings to better satisfy the needs of our summer counselors.

4. The Committee members are

From St Francis Executive Board and Board

• Don Collom

• Ben Dandrow 

• Marc Giannetti

• Don Kaiser 

• Eddie Smith 

From Outside St Francis Architects and Designers.  

• Sue Leverence 

• Bill Leverence 

Donations and Volunteer Hours are Needed Now More than Ever! 

Some Facts

1. Camp fees only cover 49% of the cost to send a camper to camp for a week. Donations must cover the gap between fees charged and the operating expenses of running the Camp.

2. To accomplish the goals of Operation Facelift, continued generous donations of money and volunteer hours are needed more than ever! Go to the Camp Website under "Get Involved" you will find both ways to contribute money and volunteer your time.

3. Please contact President Ben Dandrow and Camp Director Josh Brink how you or your organizations can help. 

Sincerely,
Ben Dandrow, President St Francis Camp on the Lake
bdandrow@saintfranciscamp.org