04/03/2026
Thank you Lilly Endowment for funding large initiative capital projects for many youth camps in Indiana.
Here is the Press Release from Fairmont Wesleyan Camp. Fairmont, Indiana
Exciting news for Fairmount Camp on this Good Friday.
(see press release below)
Fairmount Camp Receives Implementation Grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. to Transform Residential Youth Facilities
FAIRMOUNT, IN — Fairmount Camp has received a grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. through its Capital Project Initiative for Residential Youth Camps. This funding will support "Phase 3" of a comprehensive capital improvement plan designed to modernize aging infrastructure and expand the camp’s capacity to serve youth year-round.
The grant will fund several high-impact projects, including the construction of an 11,700-square-foot multi-purpose Recreation Center featuring a full gymnasium and classrooms, and a new Lodge/Retreat Center designed for year-round residency. Additionally, the funds will support critical infrastructure upgrades such as complete electrical rewiring of five buildings, a modernized sewer and water system, and the renovation of the West Playground to meet full ADA accessibility and safety standards.
These improvements directly align with Fairmount Camp’s mission to provide a refuge from daily distractions and create life-changing encounters that strengthen families and the community. By winterizing facilities and upgrading utilities, the camp will transition from a seasonal five-month operation to a year-round destination, significantly increasing its ability to serve vulnerable and underserved youth, including those in foster care.
"We believe that the completion of these projects will serve our mission for generations to come," said the Fairmount Camp Board. "This modernization ensures a safe, inclusive, and high-quality environment where youth can thrive in every season".
The grant is one of 40 implementation grants being awarded through Phase 3 of the Lilly Endowment initiative. The initiative aims to help Indiana residential youth camps improve the overall camp experience and outcomes for youth through new, enhanced, and expanded facilities integral to quality programming.
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About Fairmount Camp Located on 20+ acres in Fairmount, Indiana, Fairmount Camp has served families for over 126 years. Originally the site of Fairmount Bible College, the camp is now a Crossroads District affiliate corporation that hosts weeklong summer camps, family camps, and specialized retreats for youth of all denominations. With approximately 100 structures, the camp provides a multi-generational camping experience focused on spiritual, emotional, and social growth.
About Lilly Endowment Inc. 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.
