Association of Bayside Camp and Retreat Centre

The Association of Bayside Camp and Retreat Centre is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and participating in the governance and ongoing development of Bayside Camp and Retreat Centre, a Christian ministry located in Nova Scotia. The Association comprises individuals and organizations committed to the mission and values of Bayside, providing them an opportunity to be involved in decision-making processes through membership.

Overview and Mission

Operating since 1953, Bayside Camp and Retreat Centre has aimed to offer meaningful summer camp experiences and year-round retreats that foster confidence, character, faith, and lasting friendships among youth and guests. The Association supports this mission by facilitating community involvement and guiding the ministry’s development in accordance with its by-laws. The focus is on creating a welcoming environment where individuals can find rest, reconnect with important aspects of life, and grow spiritually through interactive programs and nurturing relationships.

Programs and Activities

Bayside Camp offers a variety of programs, including:

• Summer Camps: Serving children from grades P-8, these camps emphasize building confidence, character, faith, and friendships through a range of activities like games, waterfront activities, worship, and campfires.

• Leadership Training: Programs for youth in grades 8-11, including CORE and LIT, are designed to challenge participants to develop leadership skills while deepening their spiritual foundations.

• Year-Round Retreats: The camp facilities host retreats such as church gatherings and business meetings from September to June, providing a setting conducive to personal and group reflection and growth.

Organizational Structure

Bayside Camp and Retreat Centre operates as a corporation under the Nova Scotia Societies Act and maintains a historic relationship with the Halifax Region United Baptist Association (HRUBA). Although it functions as a separate entity since 2015, the connection with HRUBA remains strong, with several board members drawn from churches affiliated with the association or the Convention of Atlantic Baptist Churches.

The Association of Bayside Camp and Retreat Centre acts as a representative group within this structure, enabling members to participate actively in governance and strategic planning. Membership offers voting rights and a voice in shaping the ministry’s future.

Registration and Legal Status

• Business Registration Number: 106777063RR0001
• Legal Status: Registered Canadian charity and nonprofit corporation

Values and Impact

The organization is committed to creating an inclusive and spiritually enriching environment. Time spent at Bayside is intended to help guests and campers reconnect with the meaning of life by fostering relationships, rest, and faith. Emphasis is placed on intentional programming and a supportive community atmosphere to nurture personal growth.

This combination of ministry, leadership development, and community participation underscores the Association of Bayside Camp and Retreat Centre's role in sustaining a vibrant Christian camp environment that serves youth and adults alike throughout Nova Scotia.

[1] https://baysidecamp.org [2] https://baysidecamp.org/association [3] https://my.charitableimpact.com/charities/association-of-bayside-camp-and-retreat-centre [4] https://baysidecamp.squarespace.com/s/Application-for-Churches-and-Associations.pdf [5] https://hruba.ca/ministries/bayside-camp-and-retreat-centre