05/05/2026
Yellow Creek Lake (YCL) Ministries is proud to announce a transformational investment in its future. In December 2025, Lilly Endowment, Inc. awarded $77 million in capital improvement grants to 68 residential youth camps across Indiana. YCL Ministries is honored to be among the recipients, receiving a $750,000 grant that will significantly enhance the camp’s ability to serve youth, families, and faith communities for generations to come.
The grant reflects a shared belief in the life-changing role camps play in nurturing spiritual growth, character development and meaningful connection to God’s creation. As Lilly Endowment noted, camps are vital places where young people grow socially, educationally, and spiritually—and well-equipped facilities are essential to that mission.
For Yellow Creek Lake Campground, this investment opens the door to impactful facility improvements that will elevate the camper experience and expand year-round ministry opportunities. Planned priorities include additional showers in the bathhouse, expansion of the cafeteria to serve large groups, upgrades that allow the Tabernacle to function as an indoor recreation and sports space during inclement weather, and renovations to several dormitories.
“Yellow Creek Lake has long been a place where people of all ages come to rest, worship, and experience God in the beauty of northwest Indiana,” said Marvin Hills, Chairman of the Board.
“This generous investment allows us to build on that legacy—creating spaces that are welcoming, functional, and ready to support the next generation in faith and fellowship.”
A project management team began work in fall 2025, including the selection of an architectural firm in December. Design development and construction planning are well underway, with contractor bids anticipated in late spring to early summer. YCL Ministries is committed to the thoughtful and timely ex*****on of these improvements and fully anticipates completing the funded projects within the three-year timeframe outlined by the grant.
YCL Ministries is deeply grateful to Lilly Endowment, Inc. for its confidence and partnership. This grant marks an exciting new chapter—one that strengthens the camp’s mission to serve God, nurture faith, and be a positive influence throughout northern Indiana.