Southern Indiana Business Report
ORLEANS – The Indiana South Wesleyan District Camp in Orleans is investing in several facility improvements thanks to a $1 million grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. through Lilly’s Capital Project Initiative for Residential Youth Camps.
This is one of 69 implementation grants being awarded through Phase 2 of the initiative, which helps Indiana residential youth camps improve the camp experience and outcomes for youth through new, enhanced and expanded facilities integral to quality youth camps programming.
Located on Ind. 37, the camp will build a new 32-spot RV park at the south end of the property. The park will have full hook-ups.
According to a news release from the Orleans Chamber of Commerce, District Camp leaders are currently updating and winterizing two of the dormitories on the campground. The buildings will have new windows and new heating and cooling systems for each room. This is part of the district’s overall plan to be able to use the facilities year-round.
Other updates are planned for the kitchen and dining hall areas with all new equipment. New restroom facilities are also being added to the dining hall along with new energy- efficient windows. With the updates to this building, the camp can also be used for special events such as weddings. The Lilly grant will also be used for design work on a new dorm to be completed in 2027.
For nearly 75 years the historic campgrounds have been a part of the Orleans Community since its founding in 1952 and annually plays host to a variety of camps and events focusing on children, youth and families. Landmarks on the spacious and attractive grounds include the large historic tabernacle, bell tower and dining hall.
About Lilly Endowment Lilly Endowment Inc. is an Indianapolis-based private foundation created in 1937 by J.K. Lilly, Sr. and his sons Eli and J.K. Jr. through gifts of stock in their pharmaceutical business, Eli Lilly and Company. Although the gifts of stock remain a financial bedrock of the Endowment, it is a separate entity from the company, with a distinct governing board, staff and location. In keeping with the founders’ wishes, the Endowment supports the causes of community development, education and religion.