FAQS

Question: Why should I use ODM?  Can't I just take my group camping by myself?

Part of ODM's purpose is to encourage groups to get outside and use God's great outdoors for ministry.  So, if you have the equipment, leadership expertise, programming resources, and time - then you do not need ODM.  Our experience reveals, however, that most ministry leaders want to focus their time on relationships and ministry and not be preoccupied with all of the details of gathering equipment, programming events, providing meals, etc.  If this sounds like you, then ODM is a great option.

Questions: My group is very dierse.  Some in the group have camping/outdoor experience and some have no experience.  Can my group handle your type of camping?

Our trips are considered "introductory level."  This means that we will assume that there are people in your group who have little or no camping experience.  ODM will provide foundational outdoor teaching, the necessary camping equipment, and then pace the trip at a level that everyone can enjoy.  Also, our activities are not extreme (no stress camping).

Question: What do you do about inclement weather?

In general, ODM provides quality camping equipment to keep your group safe and comfortable in the even of inclement weather.  We also are careful to follow dafe camping guidelines.  If camping at the base camp, ODM has the option of moving the group to a large pavilion in the event of a dangerous storm.  Through the eyars, ODM and its groups have successfully weathered numerous storms.  In most cases, the storm usually adds additional adventure to the positive experience of the group.

Question: How safe are your trips?

ODM had over nineteen years of camping experience with no serious accidents or injuries.

Question: What if I want to lead the spiritual part of the trip?

ODM encourages ministry leaders to lead their groups in worship, devotions, and spiritual activities.  Our trips are completely customizable - you lead as much or as little as you want.  Of course, if ministry leaders want to focus on relationships and get a break from teaching, ODM will provide effective speakers and worship leaders to provide your group with a great spiritual outing.

Question: How do you keep your costs so low?

ODM is a non-profit organization committed to facilitating churches and other ministry groups.  Our goal is to provide afordable camping for all people, not just the wealthy.  ODM is subsidized by generous donors and numerous volunteers.

Question: How many chaperones do I need to bring on the trip?

For trips involving youth or children, ODM asks that you provide 1 adult chaperone per 7 student campers.  ODM will provide additional staff based on the size of your group to adequately serve your needs.

Question: Why should I consider one of ODM's summer camps instead of doing a customized trip with my group?

The summer camps are much more economical.  These camps are discounted from 25% to 30% from our regular pricing.  Also, our summer camps allow for smaller churches or ministry groups to participate with ODM as the minimum number of campers required is much lower.  Furthermore, the camps provide an opportunity for students and leaders to get to know believers from other churches.  These relationships often prove to be significant for support and friendship.  Why not consider one of our "Rejuvenate 2008" summer camps?

Question: Why should I consider a mission trip with ODM?

ODM provides mission trips to remote areas.  These people are often overlooked by more traditional mission ministries because they live in difficult places to access.  ODM had developed a number of misionary connections who are committed to ministering to remote people groups.  Also, all ODM mission trips provide funds for an ongoing follow-up that is coordinated by the missionaries with whom we partner.  This ensures that the spiritual seeds planted by our mission teams will continue to be watered and bear fruit.  For people who don't mind camping or who like to backpack, and who have a heart for the nations, an ODM mission trip may be a great match.  Why not gather a group of adventurous missionaries from your church and come do missions with us?