The slow but steady adopt-a-cabin process is almost ready 

            Several churches have expressed interest in our renewed adopt-a-cabin program.  Some have wondered why we have been dragging our feet on this much needed program.  (Just walk down the boardwalk and look at the paint on the exterior of the cabins).  The program will allow churches to work on bringing one PL cabin up to a state of good repair.  Smaller churches can join together to adopt a single cabin.  We want to make sure that all churches can participate.  In order to facilitate this process a pilot program has been initiated.  The First Congregational Church of Waterville adopted cabin one this spring.  We are carefully tracking the hours they put in, and the money they spend on each item.  After they have loved cabin one back to life, we will perform an analysis on each cabin and prepare a profile of the cabin, outlining the work that needs to be done, and the estimated cost of the work.  Churches can then choose to perform the labor themselves, or work with the PL Director on contracting it out.  

             The Waterville church raised over twelve hundred dollars for the first year of their adoption.  In addition, members of the church have worked tirelessly on the cabin.  So far they have: leveled the portions of the cabin that have settled; removed the chimney and fireplace and repaired the wall; painted the bunks; and installed a shower including an expansion of the roofline.  They still plan to paint both inside and out; repair any rotting boards or sills; make new curtains; and re-roof the cabin. 

             This is an opportunity for hands on mission work that enhances Pilgrim Lodge and ensures a safe space for our children to grow in faith.  It is a tremendous opportunity for fellowship as well.  Every individual and group in the church can be involved both in raising funds as well as doing the actual work.   If your church is interested, we can plan a presentation this fall or winter with profiles of each cabin’s needs and the estimate of the time and money needed to improve it.  You can choose a cabin that fits your financial and labor abilities.  Your church can then plan to work on the cabin next spring and summer.  Time must be negotiated in advance, as many weekends are unavailable because PL is rented to private non-profit groups.  The color of each cabin will be consistent and the PL manager will purchase the paint.  If you’ve already expressed interest, you can expect to hear from us soon.  You’ll be hearing a lot more about this important and meaningful project next fall.

Here  is a sample list of maintenance needed for each cabin:

• Exterior Painting: you can provide funds for the paint (we will choose the color, and purchase the paint to insure uniformity) and come and paint the cabin, inside and out! Painting projects must be scheduled with the camp manager.
• Interior Sanding/Painting: If your cabin is already painted inside, chances are it needs another coat, if it is not painted, graffiti may need to be sanded off. Again, you may offer funds to purchase paint and/or provide the labor.
• Wash the curtains, or make new ones if needed.
• Replace rotting boards and steps.
• Repair and replace screening: This is a constant effort. We are also moving to a "removable screen" system that must be built for each cabin so we can remove screens for the winter.
• Re-roofing: Many cabins are in need of a new roof.
• Leveling the cabin floor and replacing supports

This project is still in the planning stages. Please contact us if you're interested!