Madison Lake, MN – June 10, 2025 – Kiwanis Camp Patterson is proud to announce the launch of a $1.3 million capital fundraising campaign to support major facility upgrades in preparation for the camp’s 100th anniversary in 2027. The campaign will officially kick off at a public event on Tuesday, June 10 at 4:00 PM at Kiwanis Camp Patterson, 5050 Patterson Road, Madison Lake, MN.

Serving generations of youth campers since 1927, Kiwanis Camp Patterson has been a cherished summer destination on the shores of Lake Washington. As the camp nears its centennial milestone, essential improvements are planned to ensure it continues to provide a safe, inclusive, and memorable experience for future campers.

Planned upgrades include:

• A new shower and restroom facility
• A covered pavilion for group activities
• A modern counselor bunkhouse

Construction is scheduled to begin in 2026, with the grand opening of the new facilities aligning with the camp’s 100th anniversary celebrations in 2027.

A highlight of the campaign launch is the announcement of a $500,000 matching grant from the The Taylor Foundation, which will match all donations dollar-for-dollar.

“We’re incredibly grateful for this generous challenge grant,” said شانون جولليكسون, President of the Kiwanis Camp Patterson, Inc. Board. “The Taylor Foundation’s support will significantly amplify the impact of every contribution, helping us to make these vital improvements a reality.”

Members of the media are invited to attend the kickoff event. Representatives from The Taylor Foundation, Kiwanis Camp Patterson, and leaders from the camp’s largest partner organizations—Celebrate Me Week and the Mankato YMCA—will be available for interviews.

For additional information please contact Shannon Gullickson, Kiwanis Camp Patterson, Inc. President at 507-381-2068 or [email protected].

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Kiwanis Camp Patterson, established in 1927 through a generous land donation from Mankato merchant H.A. Patterson, is a 19.2-acre lakeside camp located on the shores of Lake Washington in southern Minnesota. Owned and maintained by the Mankato Kiwanis Club, the camp provides affordable rental facilities to nonprofit youth organizations, including the Mankato Family YMCA, Celebrate Me Week, Camp OZ, Royal Family Kids, and Blue Earth County 4-H, among others. Each summer, over 2,600 children attend programs at the camp, engaging in traditional activities such as canoeing, archery, swimming, and campfire gatherings. With a mission to offer a technology-free environment that fosters personal growth and community, Kiwanis Camp Patterson continues to serve as a cherished retreat for youth, supported by dedicated volunteers and community contributions.