There’s a number of logistics when putting together a group to attend an event away from home. Below are a few of the most frequently asked questions. While this is our attempt to get you information prior to arriving, we’re likely missing something. Please feel free to contact us with any additional questions you may have as you prepare.
Where is the Great Lakes Gathering?
The Great Lakes Gathering will take place at The Downtown Radisson in Kalamazoo, MI from February 7-9, 2020.
Who may attend the Great Lakes Gathering?
All youth grades 9-12, who are registered with a group may attend.
Young adults who are age 18-25 and graduated high school are also welcome to register & attend the Great Lakes Gathering. Programming for the Young Adult Track will intersect with the Great Lakes Gathering, but also have components specifically designed for the young adult audience. Young Adult participants register as individuals, pay a flat rate that includes housing costs, do not need to book their own rooms, and do not require adult leader accompaniment.
How many adults do we send?
One adult leader, age 21 or older, must register for every 9 youth attending. Young Adult participants can’t also serve as adult leaders. Adult leaders pay the same registration fee as the youth. A background check will be performed by Living Water Ministries on each adult present at the Great Lakes Gathering upon registration.
What is my role as an adult leader?
As an adult leader your role is to care for the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of the youth you bring. The youth you are accompanying are in your care. Supervision is a big part of this role, but equally so is the calling you have answered to build relationships with your youth in order that once you return home you can help them build off of what they have experienced in your home congregation. Your group of youth will never rise above your level of attentiveness. It’s important that you stay positive, engaged, and available. Each night at the Great Lakes Gathering is congregational time. This is an opportunity for you to facilitate a time of discussion, reflection, and sharing with your group that is centered on God. Some groups use this time to do a devotion, others simply do “highs and lows”.
What do I need to know about parking?
The hotel will provide discounted overnight self-parking for registered guests at $8.00 per day. Day attendees will be charged $10.00 per day for parking. For Oversized Vans & Buses that do not fit into the Ramp, these will be parked in nearby flat lots of downtown and charged at the rate at the time of the event.
Does the registration fee include meals?
No. There are also a variety of restaurant options nearby. Some groups bring meal supplies to host breakfast and lunches out of their hotel rooms for their groups.
Are there refrigerators in the hotel rooms?
Yes.
Are cell phones permitted?
Yes, although we encourage their use be appropriate and respectful.
How long has the Great Lakes Gathering been around?
The 2020 event marks our 37th year.
Do we get a free t-shirt?
Free t-shirts are no longer available with the cost of registration but items will be available for sale at the event.