About Iawah

COVID-19 Information

Please note that IAWAH is continuing to move forward in a safe way, based on Ontario's Roadmap to Reopen. For summer 2021, we were thrilled to offer our Campground and Youth Development Programs to guests. This fall, IAWAH is able to offer a modest program, allowing us to provide group retreat services. Registration for summer 2022 will open later in the fall, stay tuned for more information.

Below you’ll find responses to several Frequently Asked Questions. As you know, circumstances continue to evolve, and we will do our best to provide you with new information as it becomes available.

Summer Camps & YDLP

• Can I transfer my summer camp fees to Summer 2022?

  No. The process of refunding fees from 2021 is currently underway. Registration for summer 2022 will open later in the fall.

• When will refunds be provided?

  The 2021 refund process is currently underway. Please contact the office for further information.

• What healthcare precautions does IAWAH take?

  The overall safety of our guests, volunteers and staff team is extremely important. IAWAH will continue to promote guest safety through enhanced cleaning routines, increased hand-washing protocols and by strictly following the guidance of the local health authorities.Operating protocols for camps are being developed by the Ontario Camping Association in conjunction with provincial health authorities.




Guest Services

• Who determines IAWAH’s response to COVID-19

  The leadership team of IAWAH, in close correspondence with the Board of Directors, continues to monitor the situation closely. We are following the guidance from the Provincial and local health authorities (South Frontenac Township and KFL&A Health Unit), Ministry of Labour, and the Ontario Camps Association. The safety of all our guests and staff team is our top priority.

• Who do I contact with questions about my booking or event?

  Please contact our office at 613-273-5621 or [email protected]or fill out the retreats enquiry form

• If I cancel my event, or it is canceled for me, will I get my deposit back?

  Cancelation is not the end of your event. Booking deposits can be kept on-account and carried forward to a future booking date. We can also process a refund, if necessary.

• How do I submit an enquiry about booking?

  To make a booking inquiry, please submit the Retreats inquiry form. We are still in the process of planning our winter 2021-22 season and are paying close attention to the operational safety considerations outlined by Ontario's Roadmap to Safely Re-open.

History

In 1955, Charlie Leach and a group of devout Christian men contemplated building a summer camp for Southeastern Ontario. They came across the Derbyshire farm on Wolfe Lake and although the road was impassable, they walked in on foot. The men prayed, asking God for guidance and wisdom. With resounding clarity, they knew in their hearts that the farm was the perfect location for a retreat centre and children’s camp.

Charlie and two other men felt powerfully compelled by God to make an offer of $5,000 and 25 years to pay Mrs. Derbyshire who lived in Westport. En route to the meeting, they stopped in a Westport restaurant and were informed that another organization was offering $30,000 cash for the farm — far more than what they had available. Concerned but undeterred, Charlie and the committee proceeded with the meeting and by God’s grace, came face-to-face with a wonderful Christian woman.

Mrs. Derbyshire was receptive to their plan, noting that their proposal and vision for the property was exactly what her late husband would have wanted for the future of the farm. From this humble beginning, IAWAH has since grown into a year-round centre for learning, adventure and growth. Thousands of people, both young and old, have met the Lord at IAWAH, while others have grown deeper roots of faith. Today, we continue to journey with youth as they grow in leadership and intimacy with God.

Overview

The Christian life is one of growth and we acknowledge Him in each step of the journey.

IAWAH. “In All Ways Acknowledge Him.”
– Proverbs 3:5-6

IAWAH is centrally located to serve the communities of Eastern Ontario. IAWAH sits tucked against a backdrop of pristine wilderness made visually stunning by over 200 acres of forests, ponds, trails and 2.5 kilometres of private shoreline on Wolfe Lake.

We offer summer camps, youth leadership and development programs, family retreats, retreat facilities and school programs with emphasis on personal holistic development and growth in faith. Our dedicated staff are committed to providing children, youth, young adults and families a place to connect with one another, with God and with the natural world.

Organization

IAWAH was founded in 1956 as a non-denominational summer camp. The not-for-profit organization is governed by the Corporation of IAWAH Christian Ministries — a dedicated group of people who voluntarily serve as stewards of the ministry. A Board of Directors is selected to provide leadership to the Executive Director, within the framework of policy governance. Additionally, there is a small year-round staff team supported by over 150 seasonal staff and volunteers, all of who are carefully vetted and chosen to help facilitate the growth of each participant and guest.

Why Membership?

IAWAH Christian Ministries seeks people who know and love the ministry, and are committed to seeing the organization grow in its effectiveness to achieve its vision. Members serve and stay connected to the organization - contributing to its overall health by:

• praying for the ministry
• financially supporting the ministry
• volunteering time, energy and skills
• promoting the ministry, programs, events
• attending Corporation meetings (especially the Annual General Meeting each November)

Anyone 18 years or older who is a deeply rooted follow of Jesus Christ and agrees with the Foundational Documents is welcome to apply to become a member of the Corporation. Applicants will be interviewed informally and appointed by the Board of Directors. A one-time fee of $10 legally formalizes the membership.

Foundations

IAWAH plants seeds of faith, nurtures disciples and cultivates Godly character and leadership in each participant. Our vision is to grow deeply-rooted followers of Jesus who are equipped for God’s harvest — wherever they are planted.

To read more about our mission, vision and values, we invite you to read them here.

Read More

Annual Ministry Report

To find out more about this past year of ministry at IAWAH please view the 2020- 2021 Annual Ministry Report.

Draft AGM Minutes for the 2020-2021 year.

Accreditation

IAWAH seeks to develop safe practices that anticipate and respond to needs of those it serves and maintains membership with the following organizations:

• Christian Camping International (Canada)
• Ontario Camping Association
• Lifesaving Society of Canada
• Association for Challenge Course Technology

IAWAH is dedicated to thoroughly screening, orienting and training staff and volunteers. If you would like to discuss our safety and current standards, please contact our Director. Camp IAWAH is an accredited member of the Ontario Camps Association.