Caring for Camp through Monthly Giving

Before the Campfire Circle was launched in 2020, several generous supporters began giving monthly. Scott and Rebecca Bahan decided to give monthly using an Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) because they understood how important consistent support was for an organization like Camp Ondessonk.

“Being involved in other non-profit organizations,” Scott explained, “I knew that a commitment to give monthly means Camp doesn’t have to worry, because they can count on our support.”

Rebecca agreed, “It’s great because people don’t have to give a lot each month to make a difference, and it can be adjusted anytime.”

Scott and Rebecca give back to Camp because it is a special place for them. “It’s my favorite place on earth!” Scott shared. “Camp always feels like home and it’s where I met my lovely wife.” Rebecca continued, “Camp people are just the best! They are our second family.”

Scott first came to Camp Ondessonk as a camper in 1988, went on to be a CIT, and joined the summer staff in 1991. Rebecca found Camp while studying outdoor education at Southern Illinois University Carbondale and was shocked to see that Illinois was more than corn fields.

“I grew up in Wisconsin and had no idea about the Shawnee National Forest. I loved Camp immediately!” Rebecca explained. She spent two summers as a unit leader and Ondessonk has been a part of her life since.

Now volunteers and parents of campers, Camp Ondessonk continues to be important for the Bahans. “Camp is a constant for us,” Scott shared. “It shaped me, and I want my kids to have that experience.”

Scott and Rebecca are keeping the Spirit of Ondessonk alive for their kids and countless others through their membership in the Campfire Circle. You can join the Bahans in the Campfire Circle committing as little as $5 per month on DonorBox or Camp’s giving page.