EP 23 | Growth Takes a Plan: What to Do When Your Camp Stops Growing

Growth had been strong at Bongiorno Conference Center coming out of COVID, but by 2025 the momentum was beginning to stall. For Executive Director Carl Redding, the challenge wasn’t simply generating more business. It was figuring out what needed to change, and being willing to act on it.Rather than trying to solve everything internally, Bongiorno partnered with an outside digital marketing agency to take a fresh look at its growth opportunities. That process helped the team see both the potential ahead and the gaps that needed attention. From marketing and lead generation to inquiry follow-up and internal systems, Bongiorno began building a more intentional approach to growth. The result has been a stronger pipeline, more inquiries and bookings, and greater clarity about where the organization can go next.Carl also shares the leadership work behind that progress: addressing unhealthy staff culture, inviting trusted leaders into important decisions, empowering team members to own their areas, and knowing when outside expertise can help you see something differently. As new opportunities emerge, Bongiorno is now thinking about the next constraints to growth, including staffing, meeting space, capacity, and long-term facility planning.Carl Lefever’s Quick Camp Marketing Tip focuses on another important part of sustainable growth: keeping the guest groups you already have through proactive retreat coordination and a consistent rebooking process.Keywordscamp growth, camp marketing, retreat center marketing, Bongiorno Conference Center, digital marketing, retreat bookings, lead generation, guest group retention, camp leadership, retreat coordination, organizational growth, Christian campingSound Bites“Growth doesn’t simply happen because you want it.”“You have to communicate, communicate, overcommunicate.”“I want 100% retainment. I know it’s crazy to think like that, but why not?”“When God changes a life, it’s forever and it’s eternal.”HostsMark P. Fisher, Inspiring GrowthCarl Lefever, Improve & GrowGuestCarl Redding, Bongiorno Conference CenterResourcesRetreat Coordination Process Article>Church Event Planning Checklist>Free Camp Growth Planner App >If you’re enjoying the podcast, be sure to follow or subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes.Have a question you'd like us to cover?Click here to record your question >Want Help Growing Your Camp?Click here to schedule a call >Music licensed through Soundstripe.Code: GBZT62DX8P3EDCBP