Invest in the next generation of faithful, courageous leaders
Because of you:
- Coldwater Instructors are highly trained
- Mink Lake Wilderness Camp is a thriving ministry facility
- Students lives are changed every year
Your generosity makes wilderness experiences accessible to everyone.
Coldwater Foundation is a registered 501c(3) non-profit organization EIN#27-1609731 in accordance with the standards and regulations of the Internal Revenue Service. No goods or services are provided in exchange for these gifts. All donations are made with the understanding that Coldwater Foundation has complete discretion over donated funds. Contributions are 100% tax deductible.
General Fund Giving*
Where does it go?
Other Summer Ministry Costs
Student Scholarship Fund, BWCA Permits, General Liability Insurance, Merch, Garmin Communication Devices, Camp Supplies
Food
Trip Food, Meals Served at Mink Lake Wilderness Camp, Travel Meals
Facility
Camp Vehicle Use & Maintenance, Annual Lease, Rental Expenses, Facility Maintenance, Building Projects, etc.
Office & Bookkeeping
Office Supplies, Postage, Licensing & fees, Accountant & Bookkeeping Services, Subscriptions, Internet, etc.
Staff
Certifications and Training, Support for Underfunded Staff, Workers’ Comp, Travel Expenses
* Based on 2023 Data
Frequently Asked Questions
Have other questions? If you still don’t find your answer, feel free to contact us directly.
Is my donation tax-deductible?
Yes! Coldwater Foundation is a registered 501c(3) non-profit organization in the state of Minnesota. All donations are 100% tax deductible. We depend on your generous donations to further the Coldwater mission. Giving receipts are issued to our donors in a report at the start of the new year.
I’d like to make a change to my giving. Can you help me?
If you’d like to make a change in your giving, check first with your donation method. For Donorbox donations, you can update your giving there. If you donate through billpay, contact your bank to make changes. If you have questions or need further assistance, give us a call, or reach out to jen@coldwaterfoundation.org.
Why do Coldwater staff raise support?
Coldwater is a small, independent non-profit ministry—not funded by a parent denomination or larger camp network—so the mission depends on generous partners.
Program fees cover only part of the actual cost of wilderness training. We keep tuition far below market rates so every student can participate, regardless of financial ability. (Comparable wilderness programs cost three to four times more.) We also provide scholarships for any family that needs help.
To form excellent leaders, Coldwater invests deeply in staff development. Each instructor receives a 3-week training trip, a month of intensive leadership preparation, and a full Wilderness First Responder certification—all at no cost to them. Housing, meals, and a summer salary are also provided.
Because we prioritize training, accessibility, and care for our leaders, program income cannot fully cover staff costs. Support raising helps supplement salaries so instructors can serve without financial strain and allows us to keep courses accessible to students.
Too many ministry workers experience burnout. Every staff member needs a team around them. The support-raising model builds that team by surrounding each leader with prayer and financial partners. This approach strengthens our people, sustains their ministry, and allows Coldwater to prioritize high-quality training, rest, and long-term health.
Supporting staff is one of the most strategic ways to invest in Coldwater’s mission—because excellent leaders are what make transformational experiences possible.
What is Coldwater's Statement of Faith?
Can you tell me about Coldwater’s Annual Banquet?
Facing challenge is the means by which we become stronger, more aware, and more ready for whatever comes next. We believe that within struggle is a great opportunity for growth. Embracing challenge is a valuable mindset for when life gets difficult.
