We're ready to launch into a partnership.
What do we need to know?
by Dan DeGroat, Executive Director

Relationship Before Resources

This is the most important concept when partnering with a ministry in a developing country. The risk is very high that your funds will be misdirected if your eagerness to give outpaces your knowledge of the culture. For this reason, before establishing any type of partnership or "sister camp" relationship, invest in building a personal relationship with the leadership of the foreign cemp, church, or mission before resources leave your control. Relationship is also vital in partnerships between camps in developed nations.

• If you do not have the time or ability right now to personally form such relationships, make certain your resources are given through a reputable intermediary who does have such a relationship—such as Global Outreach Group.

• As we all know, first impressions last a long time; read up on the cultural dos and don'ts before you get involved; ask for advice. A recommended reading list is at the end of this document.

• Avoid making promises in the emotion of the moment, they'll be harder to keep than you think. Don't even say "we'd like to help with that". It will be taken as a commitment.

• Slow and deep beats fast and broad. While we are called to redeem the time and take deliberate action without delay, don't let your haste to build the building cause you to skimp on the foundation; step by step.

• Don't let denominational differences sidetrack you. "Broad in fellowship; narrow in doctrine" is the rule. Major on the majors, minor on the minors. Don't discuss controversial theology at first.

• Have the support of a local church or denomination; "parachurch" is not an understood concept in many cultures.

Give Yourself Before You Give Things

This is the practical application of the "Relationship Before Resources" principle. The way to apply it is to send someone from your organization to the camp you desire to partner with. Go in the camping season; stay at the camp. Speak at chapels, share your testimony in cabin groups, teach some new games, live with the campers and love them in Jesus' name. Get to know the staff, the program, the director's heart and vision. Meet the pastor of the sponsoring church or leader of the mission. Make no financial commitments initially; leave no money. Be clear that you are praying about further involvement.

·         "But it costs so much to go". It may cost a lot more not to.

·         "We'll just bring their leaders over here for training".

 There are three hidden dangers in bringing leaders to the west:

             1.  The "land of plenty" may entice them to permanently leave their homeland;

             2.  The contrast with what they don't have may overwhelm them with discouragement;

             3.  Exposure to two worlds may produce a divided heart in the immature.

 Therefore, be quick to go; slow to bring.

Give Things Before You Give Cash

Once you have seen the needs first-hand, provide the actual tangible items rather than money when possible.

·         Take funds in with you and be involved personally in the purchase locally.

·         Ship goods into the country; be informed about customs issues first.

·         Providing funds will be the last step as the relationship matures.

·         It's time to give cash when:

     1. There is an individual you trust, with whom you have a solid relationship;

     2. There is a track record of successful ministry which can be demonstrated;

     3. Virtues such as integrity, dependability, good reputation have been tested;

     4. An accountability system is in place (budget, results reporting)

 Give Yourself to Prayer Before You Do Everything

It's the greatest resource we have, and the one most needed in any partnership.

STEP 1.    Contact Global Outreach Group for information on solid, worthy camping ministries worldwide. Use the address at the top of this page.

STEP 2.    Learn about opportunities, people, and resources needed.

STEP 3.     Make a plan that fits your interests and capabilities at this time.

STEP 4.     Move ahead in God's strength and see what develops.
                         Great-commission driven unconditional love is never the wrong choice.

Additional Resources

Do's and Taboos Around The World - edited by Roger E. Axtell; John Wiley and Sons, Inc.

Kiss, Bow, or Shake Hands - by Morrison, Conaway, and Borden; Adams Media Corporation

Ministering Cross-Culturally - by Lingenfelter and Mayers; Baker Book House