Frequently asked questions
How will my donation be used?
When you give as a donor, you have several fund options.
General Fund - general operations, overall expenses of the ministry including staff.
Summer Camp - Camps from memorial day to labor day, Currently Catalyst Camp.
Retreats - Weekend events non-summer, currently our Spark Retreats.
Outback - Wilderness trips, Currently Los Angeles Christian School and Passion LA.
Property - Purchasing and developing a camp property.
HOW DO I BECOME AN OASIS BUILDER?
Anyone who gives $20 or more a month, or $250 or more two years in a row become a part of our Oasis Builders group. Oasis Builders represent our core committed team. As such, members will receive:
A welcome letter and gift.
Quarterly updates from our Executive Director.
The first opportunity to volunteer for events and programs.
Prayer Alerts and Birthday Wishes.
Recognition at our annual fundraising gala and in our annual report.
Can I “Pledge” a donation?
Yes! It would be a great blessing if you would like to pledge a donation. It really helps us plan our financial year. You can also choose a designation when you pledge a donation and fulfill the pledge when funds become available to you. We do not currently have this option shown, but you can e-mail us with your commitment and the area you would like to support when funds are available or the timing fits your donation planning calendar.
What happened to my donation to the “save the oaks” campaign?
We were an instrumental part in making the new steward of The Oaks (Union Rescue Mission) aware the property was for sale early in the process so their donor was ready to make an offer. They chose not to partner with us on a purchase, and we did not have sufficient funds to make a counter offer. We are thankful that such a quality Christian organization has kept the property in the Kingdom.
Everyone who gave to “Save The Oaks” was notified and given 60 days to redesignate their gift or receive a refund if requested. So, at this point we are confident those who kept funds with us want to see us continue to expand Christian camp ministry that empowers urban youth and families by bringing back the ministry of The Oaks at alternate sites which in time we pray we will grow to include not only winter retreats, but also summer camps and family conferences.
Remaining funds are being used to continue operations, fund retreat ministry, and seed the start up fund for the return summer camp ministry. As of April, 2023 we have served over 650 participants at our programs and seen 118 come to know Jesus.
Have you talked to other Christian organizations about partnerships?
Since the beginning of this venture, we have sought out partners to join us in our mission. We are currently aligned with Passion LA and their Southern California Fuel network groups. The Antelope Valley Ministerial Association has also been extremely helpful. We participate in Mission Increase’s programs to coach non-profits. We are also re-engage with the Christian Camp and Conference Association.
What is your non-profit status?
OMV is registered as a 501(c)3 in the state of California. We also received our letter of determination from the IRS on May 29, 2021. This ruling is effective back to our incorporation November 20, 2020, giving us full designation as a charitable organization for Federal tax purposes. You can explore our organization further through Candid (formerly Guidestar) who awarded us their Platinum of Transparency in 2023. We also share performance with Charity Navigator and Network for Good.
When will I receive my donation receipt?
Donation receipts for mailed checks or cash will be issued via a written thank you note or receipt. These receipts will be sent electronically by e-mail or to the mailing address used when making the donation. Online donors will immediately receive a payment receipt from our giving platform to the e-mail address provided.
You may log into Simple Give at anytime to print your own statement, adjust your monthly giving, update your giving method, or make an additional contribution.
Contact chrisw@OMVCamps.org if you need a receipt or a statement. Our fiscal year ends Sept. 30, and a summary statement of all giving year to date will be issued to each donor at that time as well.
Do you allow anyone to come to your programs?
Our programs are open to anyone who meets the supervision, age and grade criteria for the camp design. OMV does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, disability, religion, or sex. Because we lease facilities, we are at times limited on what reasonable accommodations can be provided for those with physical disabilities or other concerns. In these circumstances we work to find a win-win solution. We also follow USDA guidelines for non-discrimination in relation to our summer food service program.