A Vision for the Future
Current concept for the new dining hall at Sunset Lake.
Stanley Stamm, often called the “Mr. Rogers of Pediatrics,” was the first cardiologist at Seattle Children’s Hospital. He was also the founder of Stanley Stamm Camp, a program for chronically ill children that has called Sunset Lake Camp home for the past 57 years.
At the camp’s 50th anniversary celebration, representatives from another facility approached Dr. Stamm, hoping to persuade him to relocate the program. After listening politely, Dr. Stamm looked at them and said simply,
“Why mess with perfection?”
We are deeply grateful for Dr. Stamm’s unwavering commitment—and for the trust placed in Sunset Lake over decades of ministry. And yet, even places that feel close to perfect must continue to grow, adapt, and look ahead.
As we approach our 70th anniversary in 2027, Sunset Lake Camp is committing itself to three priorities that will carry us faithfully into the next 70 years: deepening our mission, strengthening our financial foundation, and developing facilities that serve future generations.
Deepening Our Mission
Camp has always been more than a place—it is a partner in faith formation. The future of Sunset Lake is rooted in deeper collaboration with families and local churches, walking alongside parents as they cultivate faith at home and supporting congregations in their spiritual mission.
Over the next year, we are intentionally listening—engaging pastors, parents, former staff, and peer camps—to discern the best path forward. Three themes are already emerging:
1. Discipleship
Throughout Scripture, God forms His people in temporary communities—in the wilderness, on mountainsides, and along the road. Camp creates that same sacred interruption. When people step away from everyday life, space opens for transformation. At Sunset Lake, disciples are formed, leaders are shaped, and faith is awakened.
2. Family & Church Partnership
Because camp is a temporary community, it exists to serve permanent ones. Everything we do is designed to strengthen the family and support the church. Sunset Lake is not a replacement—it is a resource, a companion, and a trusted partner.
3. Evangelism
Sunset Lake is uniquely positioned to live out the gospel for those who may never enter a church. Nearly half of our guests come from outside the Adventist faith tradition, and many have no connection to Christianity at all. Yet here, through creation, hospitality, and authentic community, they encounter Jesus. More than once, guests have told us, “This place feels like sacred ground.”
Financial Sustainability
Faithful ministry requires faithful stewardship.
Rising costs and shrinking budgets make financial sustainability more critical than ever. Our path forward includes three key commitments:
1. Leaning into Mission
Strong organizations know why they exist. Sunset Lake exists for kingdom work—and that calling will only grow clearer and stronger in the years ahead.
2. Operating from the Margin
Our goal is not merely to balance the budget, but to create operational margin—resources that can be reinvested into ministry. This means maximizing facility use, pricing programs responsibly, and exercising careful stewardship of every dollar.
3. Fundraising
Like most thriving non-profits, Sunset Lake depends on consistent, generous support. We are deeply grateful for the faithful giving of the Washington Conference and its members. Looking ahead, donor-driven efforts like Expedition 2025 will play an increasingly vital role in sustaining and expanding our ministry.
Facility Development
To serve future generations well, our facilities must grow with our mission. In the coming years, you’ll hear more about several key projects:
Rainier Family Village
Formerly Hillside Village, this area is undergoing a complete transformation. Cabins are being remodeled with bathrooms and showers, interiors and furnishings updated, and gathering spaces reimagined. Future phases include additional family cabins and activity areas designed specifically for summer staff, church retreats, and family gatherings—creating a true village experience.
A New Dining Hall
Our current dining hall has exceeded its usable lifespan and must be replaced. Our goal is to raise funds over the next two years and begin construction in August 2028. This project represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity, and we are currently seeking donors interested in making legacy gifts to bring this vision to life.
Looking Further Ahead
Additional projects under discussion include a commercial kitchen for the Timber Lodge, a dedicated welcome center, retreat-season activities requiring minimal staffing, an adventure park to replace the aging challenge course, enhanced outdoor gathering spaces—including saunas in Rainier Family Village—and even a zip course spanning the hills around Lake Kepka.
An Invitation to Invest
Sunset Lake Camp exists because generations before us believed this place was worth building, sustaining, and passing on.
Expedition 2025 is your invitation to be part of that legacy—to help ensure that children, families, churches, and guests continue to encounter God in this sacred place for decades to come.
Your support strengthens ministry today and builds the foundation for tomorrow.
We invite you to give generously, pray faithfully, and walk with us into the future—because what we build together now will shape countless stories still to come.
Join us on the Expedition.
