Old Kia Kima youth camp near Hardy, Arkansas

Member News and Events

President's Letter to the Membership
January 2022

The past year has been an interesting yet fulfilling year for Old Kia Kima. With the easing of the COVID restrictions, camp experienced its best year ever. Virtually every available camping weekend was utilized and there were many full weeks of camping as well. There are already groups registering for 2022! We celebrated the 25th anniversary of the founding of OKKPA, and I can tell you - in talking with several of the original members that the vision they had of the youth of today experiencing “that special place” has been far exceeded. Sadly, 2021 also saw the passing of one of its greatest benefactors - Boyce Billingsley as well as a founding member and past President, Roy Riddick.
While OKK does face some challenges, the future is bright. Maintenance is always on-going but, as Mike Kinkade reported during the Annual Membership meeting, camp is in very good shape. While we did fall behind during the construction of the Activities Pavilion and Maintenance Building, we’ve made outstanding strides in catching up. The Covered Bridge, Hospital and Rat’s Nest were power washed and stained. The cabins all received a new coat of paint and the Hospital bathroom was completely remodeled. It was a busy year to say the least.
The Board also approved the expenditure for new window coverings for all 16 cabins, which should be ready for installation this spring. This will eliminate the need of moving the mattresses/bunks to the center of the cabin.
In an effort to increase the Board of Directors effectiveness, we reduced the number of Directors from twelve to six and eliminated the Corresponding Secretary position. While this was a difficult decision, I feel it gives us a smaller Board that reflects the membership and allows a much more effective governing body. The Board will now meet on a quarterly basis.
OKKPA reached another major milestone just before the end of the year. When the Old Kia Kima Forever Endowment Fund was created, the goal was set to raise enough money to assist in the funding of camp operations going forward. The initial goal was to raise 1,000,000 dollars through generous donations, the Major Donor program and investments. As of mid-January 2022, the fund was at $1,043,000! While this number fluctuates with the market, it certainly puts OKK in great financial position for the future.
The one area of concern for OKKPA is the level of membership. When we look back on the last 5 years at the number of improvements, maintenance, rangers, etc, we couldn’t have accomplished those things without our membership and volunteers. The fact is we simply need to expand our membership. We need to spread the word of what being an active OKKPA member means and how critical this is to enable us to allow the youth of today to experience the Spirit of Kia Kima!
I wish to personally thank each and every member of OKKPA for their hard work and generosity for making the dream come true. Although the financials are important, the involvement of people is essential for the future of Old Kia Kima.
Ron Naro

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