BROWNSTOWN — Pyoca Camp and Retreat Center has announced a major milestone in its future, securing nearly $2 million in grants from Lilly Endowment Inc. The funding will serve as a massive catalyst for the camp’s “Ignite Possibilities” campaign, a multi-year initiative aimed at modernizing the historic grounds and expanding its capacity to serve Indiana youth.
The grants were awarded through Lilly Endowment’s Capital Project Initiative for Residential Youth Camps, a program designed to help camps across the state improve their physical infrastructure to better serve future generations.
A Three-Phase Transformation
The funding was distributed across three distinct phases, allowing Pyoca to move from the drawing board to major construction in record time:
- Phase 1 ($150,000): Funded essential planning and architectural design work.
- Phase 2 ($750,000): Combined with early private donations to begin the restoration of the camp’s Lodge and the complete rebuilding of the Chapel.
- Phase 3 ($1,061,699): Secured through a competitive selection process, this final installment will fund a rebuilt and expanded Craft Cabin (including new bathhouse facilities) and the construction of a brand-new 20-bed camper cabin.
“Each phase built on the last,” said Mike Davis, Pyoca’s Director of Operations. “With each step, there was a growing sense that something special was happening, and that we were being invited to think bigger about what Pyoca could become.”
Founded in 1952, Pyoca has been a staple of the Southern Indiana community for decades. However, the aging infrastructure required significant investment to meet modern accessibility standards and support year-round programming.
The “Ignite Possibilities” campaign focuses on three core pillars:
- Restoration: Preserving historic structures that define the camp’s character.
- Accessibility: Ensuring that all campers, regardless of physical ability, can navigate and enjoy the facilities.
- Growth: Increasing bed space and indoor facilities to host more retreats and summer sessions.
The Final Push: $450,000 Remaining
While the Lilly Endowment grants provide a massive foundation, Pyoca is calling on its community to help cross the finish line. The camp is currently working to secure the remaining $450,000 needed to reach its total campaign goal and fully realize the scope of the planned projects.
“We are thankful for this incredible investment in Pyoca’s future and for the many donors whose generosity has already built strong momentum for this work,” said Executive Director Paul Fogg.
About Pyoca and Lilly Endowment
Pyoca Camp and Retreat Center is a nonprofit dedicated to providing a welcoming space for exploration, growth, and play. It serves hundreds of families annually through summer camps and year-round retreats.
Lilly Endowment Inc. is an Indianapolis-based private foundation created in 1937. It remains committed to community development, education, and religion throughout Indiana.
For those interested in supporting the campaign or learning more, please contact: Paul Fogg, Executive Director 812-324-1299 or emal paul@pyoca.org or visit www.pyoca.org.
