camp management manual

CAMP

MANAGEMENT

MANUAL

Item 133-20

CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION 1

Foundational Core Values of the Association 1

ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE 3

Camp Relationship to State Association 3

Camp Management, Elections, and Terms of Office 6

CAMP OFFICER RESPONSIBILITIES 7

Camp President 7

Camp Vice President 8

Camp Secretary 9

Camp Treasurer 10

Camp Chaplain 12

Common Responsibilities of Program Chairmen 13

Camp Webmaster 22

Camp Auxiliary President 23

Camp Auxiliary Vice President 24

Camp Auxiliary Secretary/Treasurer 25

Camp Auxiliary Chaplain 26

Auxiliary GideonCard Liaison 29

Auxiliary Scripture Secretary 30

OPERATIONAL STRUCTURE, CAMP MEETINGS, EVENTS AND PLANNING 33

The Camp Cabinet Meetings 33

Weekly Gideon Camp Prayer Meeting 36

Monthly Camp Meetings 39

The Annual Pastors Event 41

Welcoming New Members 41

Camp Committees 42

Topics of Discussion at Gideon Meetings 42

Planning the Annual Camp Program 42

FUNDING THE CAMP PROGRAM 45

The Camp Scripture Fund 45

The Camp General Fund 46

Manual Record Keeping 47

Audit 47

Legal and Tax-Exempt Status 47

Allocation of Contributions 48

Dashboard and Monthly Camp Report 49

Estates and Planned Gifts 50

KEY POLICIES OF THE GIDEONS INTERNATIONAL 51

CAMP MANAGEMENT MANUAL 1

INTRODUCTION

In July 1899, our ministry founders knelt before God to seek a name for the association of

Christian traveling men they had envisioned. Having been impressed by the Lord, one of the

founders, Brother William J. Knights, is said to have risen from prayer, saying, “We shall be

called Gideons.” God’s hand has been at work in The Gideons International ever since. As the

three founders considered the name “Gideons,” their minds likely pictured Gideon’s fledgling

army:

“every man stood in his place around the camp…” (Judges 7:21, ESV)

So, it has been, since the beginning of The Gideons International, that the local organization has

been known as a camp. Some organizations refer to their local unit as a chapter, club, or some

other name; but in The Gideons International, it is a camp.

The camp is the heart of the ministry. It is where members help one another strengthen their

testimonies for Christ, equipping each other to fulfill their God-given responsibilities as spiritual

leaders in their homes, churches, and workplaces. The camp is where members intentionally

engage churches and pastors; it is through the camp that Scripture placements and distributions

are planned; new members are recruited; GideonCards are promoted; Faith Fund gifts are

raised; the Auxiliary flourishes; and people are won to the Lord Jesus Christ! The camp is God’s

work, and that demands our very best response.

With glory to God, over 2 billion Scriptures have been placed or distributed by members around

the world since the first placement was made in Iron Mountain, Montana, in 1908. Such a

monumental opportunity has never happened haphazardly or accidentally, but within a simple,

disciplined, well-defined, organized structure.

Specific organizational standards, policies, and procedures must be carefully understood and

followed, lest our ministry should fall into disarray and its purpose be thwarted. Without

uniform direction, we would succumb to the same chaos that troubled the Israelites so long ago:

“…everyone did what was right in his own eyes.” (Judges 17:6, ESV)

By the grace of God, the integrity of the ministry has always been above reproach, and it is

incumbent on us all to diligently maintain that standard. We must always guard our Christian

character and give all glory to our Lord Jesus Christ, who alone is worthy of our praise.

FOUNDATIONAL CORE VALUES OF THE ASSOCIATION

The following attributes, or core values, are essential to the identity of the Association and,

therefore, must be adhered to by every member. It is critical to understand how these core

values are supported by the organizational structure of the camp and how each aspect of the

camp impacts the ministry as a whole.


• An uncompromised belief that the Bible is the inspired, infallible, and inerrant Word of God

• An intentional focus on the objective of winning others to the Lord Jesus Christ through:

▪ the association of Christian business and professional men for service;

▪ personal testimony and personal work by individual Gideons;

▪ placing the Bible – God’s Holy Word – or portions thereof, in hotels, hospital, schools, institutions, and also through distribution of same for personal use

• A membership consisting of business and professional men

• An integral part of the Association, known as the Auxiliary, is comprised of the member wives of Gideons who meet the same spiritual qualifications; the purpose of the Auxiliary is to assist the Gideons in their single objective through prayer, personal testimony, personal work, association for service, and placing and distributing the Bible – God’s Holy Word – or portions thereof in approved venues

• An ongoing emphasis on the importance of fulfilling the seven spiritual objectives

• Funding for the mission of the Association secured through personal contributions and bequests, church offerings, and through the GideonCard Bible Program

• Recognition of an intentional relationship with evangelical and Protestant churches as a prayer base, source of members, and financial support

• A simple, disciplined, well-defined ministry that is carried out exclusively by the membership of the Association under the authority and direction of the International Cabinet

These foundational core values apply worldwide.


ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE

The camp is the fundamental and most important organizational unit in The Gideons

International. A camp consists of at least six Gideons who live within the geographic area

defined by either the state association, national association, or the International Outreach

Committee, depending on its location and the authority designated by the Association Bylaws

with respect to forming new camps. All camps worldwide operate under the same basic

structure, although there may be some variations from country to country. This manual

addresses only USA camps.

A man joins The Gideons International, but he is assigned to a camp in the community where

he lives; hence, he also becomes a member of the state association where the camp is located. It

is in the camp where men can most actively serve, so they do not attempt to serve in other camp

territories unless they are asked to assist.

A camp Auxiliary may be organized when there are at least four Auxiliary. The camp is the most

important unit of The Auxiliary of The Gideons International. It is at the camp level that the

work is done, and the functions of the ministry are accomplished. It is therefore imperative that

the Auxiliary have regular camp, cabinet, and prayer meetings. The basic rules governing the

camp Auxiliary are contained in Article 11 of the Bylaws of The Gideons International. The

Gideon camp president is responsible for the functions of the Auxiliary.

CAMP RELATIONSHIP TO STATE ASSOCIATION

Article 4 of the Constitution of The Gideons International vests management authority of the

Association in the International Cabinet. Article 9 of the Bylaws vests management authority for

USA state associations in the state cabinet.

The state association cabinet establishes camp territories under authority of the Bylaws with the

understanding that the ministry actually functions at the camp level. The same authority that

establishes a camp also has the authority to re-define the camp’s territory or dissolve a camp, if

necessary.

In the USA, each camp is part of an area, led by Gideon and Auxiliary area directors. Gideon and

Auxiliary camp presidents represent their camp as members of either the Gideon or Auxiliary area

team, which may consist of up to 8 camps. As such, the Gideon and Auxiliary camp presidents are

expected to attend their respective area team meetings. Area team meetings take place within two

weeks of state association leadership meetings, so any pertinent information from the state

meeting is shared with camp presidents as soon as possible. The area director is not a member of

the state cabinet but is a member of the state leadership team; therefore, the camp president’s

primary contact with the state association is through the area director.

The Gideon and Auxiliary management flow charts on the following pages illustrate the camp

relationship with the state association and the state association relationship with the

International Gideon and Auxiliary Cabinets.


CAMP MANAGEMENT, ELECTIONS, AND TERMS OF OFFICE

The management framework of a camp is defined by Article 10 of the Association Bylaws.

Camp management in the USA is executed by five officers elected by the camp membership at

large––president, vice president, secretary, treasurer, and chaplain. These five are commonly

referred to as the primary cabinet. Additionally, five program chairmen––church ministry,

GideonCard, Scripture distribution, Faith Fund, and membership––are nominated by the camp

president and elected by the primary cabinet. These ten officers comprise the camp cabinet.

Additionally, a camp webmaster may be appointed by the president and approved by the

cabinet. The webmaster is accountable to the camp secretary but is not a member of the camp

cabinet; thus, the camp webmaster has neither voice nor vote at cabinet meetings.

Camp management for the Auxiliary is similar, except the Auxiliary has fewer officers. The

camp president is responsible for the organization, function, and welfare of the Auxiliary. The

camp Auxiliary president, vice president, secretary/treasurer, and chaplain are elected annually

by the camp Auxiliary membership. The Auxiliary Scripture secretary and GideonCard liaison

are nominated by the Auxiliary president and elected by the Auxiliary cabinet. These six

comprise the camp Auxiliary cabinet.

All camps are to hold annual elections for both Gideons and Auxiliary conducted by the area

director or his qualified designee. Any officer must be a member in good standing––i.e.,

membership dues must be current––and they cannot be under any form of discipline. Officers

serve for one-year terms until their successors are elected. Primary cabinet officers may serve for

a maximum of three successive terms, but program chairmen are not limited to the number of

terms they may serve.

In conducting the elections, the area director or his designee should follow the procedure

outlined in the Guide Book (Item 102).


CAMP OFFICER RESPONSIBIL IT IES

Consideration of each officer’s responsibilities in a camp quickly reveals that no single officer

exists independently. The camp cabinets, both Gideon and Auxiliary, must function as a team

with overall dedication to bring about a culture of excellence in all activities by which the

ministry reaches others for our Lord Jesus Christ. There must be a cooperative spirit within the

cabinet, as no program functions alone but in conjunction with all the others. This cooperative

effort carries over into the relationship between the Gideon cabinet and the Auxiliary cabinet.

Auxiliary activities are planned in conjunction with Gideon activities, which in a very real sense

reflects the following Core Value of the Association: “A integral element of the Association,

known as the Auxiliary, is comprised of the member wives of Gideon members who meet the

same spiritual qualifications.”

CAMP PRESIDENT

The president is the leader of the camp. He performs all duties normally pertaining to that

office, presiding at all camp meetings and events, such as Bible dedications and dignitary

presentations. The president closely supervises camp work and activities, always giving glory to

the Lord. Specifically, he:

1. Nominates program chairmen, committees, and those to fill other needed functions

with the concurrence of the other elected camp officers or the camp cabinet, whichever

is appropriate.

2. Finds the right man for the job, rather than trying to find a job for all men.

3. Guards against the formation of denominational or special interest groups within the

camp.

4. Assures that business meetings are conducted in a timely manner and follow Robert’s

Rules of Order.

5. Prayerfully plans the monthly camp meeting and the monthly cabinet meeting.

6. Serves as a member of the area team and attends the area team meetings under the

leadership of the area director. Submits a written report on his camp’s activities as

needed.

7. Maintains a supportive understanding of all Gideon programs, policies and procedures,

taking corrective action in the camp when necessary.

8. Participates in the recognizing new members, preferably at a camp meeting.

9. Leads in all planning efforts in preparation of the ensuing year of activity and should

complete the online Camp Goal Planner and the Camp Events Planner annually.

10. Attends the state association convention, especially the Saturday morning presidents’

breakfast when he delivers his camp’s contribution to the Countdown 100 offering.


11. Is responsible for the work and activities of the Auxiliary; if the camp does not have an

active Auxiliary, the camp president works to establish one.

12. Is the camp’s spiritual example and leader.

13. Establishes and maintains a personal and corporate standard of excellence in all camp

activities.

Having the title of camp president and being the camp president are not necessarily one and the

same. The president’s job is far more than simply knowing the above responsibilities. It involves

a passion for: reaching others for Christ, being a leader but not a dictator, planning the work

and working the plan, and pursuing a commitment to excellence. The success of the worldwide

ministry toward reaching people for Christ depends on the success of the camp president to

make it happen. However, the president cannot do it alone. He must inspire the cabinet and the

camp membership to fulfill their roles with the ministry’s singular goal in mind.

In addition to the camp cabinet, the president has an array of other officers to assist. As a

member of the area team, he should never hesitate to call on the area director; in fact, assistance

at the state level begins with the area director. The state association leadership team also has a

cadre of regional program leaders for each of the five international programs, and these regional

program leaders are responsible for providing assistance to camp program chairmen as needed.

The president should be sure the camp program chairmen know who these regional program

leaders are and how to reach them for assistance.

CAMP VICE PRESIDENT

The vice president should assist the president in every possible way and be prepared to assume

the presidential duties in his absence. The camp cabinet may delegate special responsibilities to

the vice president, such as publicity, promoting attendance at camp meetings, and/or arranging

transportation to Gideon functions. Therefore, he:

1. Makes himself generally useful to the camp, acting as an excellent source of ideas and

suggestions that can be effectively used in conducting the camp program within ministry

guidelines and policy.

2. Writes articles of interest for the camp and state newsletter or The Gideon magazine

regarding testimonies, success stories, and blessings received through the Gideon work

within the camp.

3. Serves as chairman of the camp telephone and communications committee to enhance

attendance at all camp activities.

4. Serves as chairman of the Annual Pastors Event.

5. Maintains a supportive understanding of all Gideon programs, policies, and procedures,

taking corrective action in the camp when necessary.


6. Understands parliamentary procedure.


activities.

As with the president, the vice president’s job is more than merely holding the office. The vice president is

the primary source of support for the president. He functions as the camp president from time to time

during the president’s absence, so he should maintain an exemplary level of excellence. He ensures that the

Annual Pastors Event is properly promoted and conducted according to the published timetables and

agendas. He works with the camp program chairmen to be sure all program activities are executed properly.

CAMP SECRETARY

The secretary is the communications arm of the camp cabinet. He is responsible for:

1. Recording in the minutes all motions, whether carried or not.

2. Making an impartial summary of all discussions.

3. Bringing the minutes and other records to every camp cabinet meeting or, if absent,

having a substitute to present the minutes for cabinet approval or correction.

4. Providing the minutes of the camp cabinet meeting to the area director electronically.

5. Taking minutes of meetings neatly, accurately, clearly, and briefly.

6. Speaking distinctly when reading the minutes and making his report to the cabinet both

interesting and informative.

7. Recording and condensing officer reports at cabinet meetings.

8. Sending written memos of motions to all parties affected.

9. Handling correspondence in a business-like manner, typing letters on camp stationery or

other proper letterheads.

10. Recording elections and committee appointments, including those for the Auxiliary, and

communicating election reports to the correct parties, including International

Headquarters.

11. Promptly referring all correspondence to the proper officer and answering other

incoming correspondence.

12. Maintaining camp content on theConnection within established Gideon policies and

guidelines.

13. Supervising the camp webmaster. The secretary may serve concurrently as the

webmaster; however, he can only serve as secretary for three successive one-year terms.


14. Maintaining a complete, current record of camp membership on theConnection, including

email addresses, phone numbers, mailing addresses, and church affiliation. The secretary

may conduct semi-annual reviews of the membership to assure complete and accurate

personal profiles exist on theConnection for all members.

15. Sending meeting notices to all concerned parties well in advance.

16. Ordering supplies for the camp on the Merchandise Order Blank (Item 502) or on

theConnection.

17. Preparing a written report on camp activities for the state leadership team when

requested.

18. Establishing and maintaining a personal and corporate standard of excellence in all

camp activities.

As with all officers, the job of the camp secretary goes beyond the title itself; his is a key responsibility.

His efficiency has a direct bearing on the overall success of the camp. He not only records decisions

and handles correspondence but also ensures members are informed of duties delegated to them. He

should help the president prepare an agenda for each cabinet meeting, and generally assist in seeing that

meetings are handled in a business-like way. The secretary is the nerve center of the camp, and his

communications with the membership help drive attendance and involvement.

CAMP TREASURER

The treasurer is responsible for the safe, accurate, and prompt handling of and accounting for all

funds of the camp. Please refer to the Camp Treasurer Manual for a detailed description of

these specific responsibilities:

1. Maintaining a local bank account in the name of the Gideon camp using the authorized

specific employer identification number (EIN) for the respective zone. Updating

signature cards as needed.

2. Depositing all funds received. Maintaining accurate records including the name and

address of each donor and the purpose for which the funds were given (Item 510).

3. Remitting Scripture Funds at least monthly via the electronic 503 (e503) on theConnection

or by sending a camp check along with a 503 Scripture Funds Remittance form to the

lockbox in Washington, D.C.

4. Remitting all credit card donations by sending the original, signed credit card slips along

with a 503C Credit Card Remittance form to the lockbox in Washington, D.C. The e503

does not have the capability of processing credit card information.

5. Communicating with the Church Ministry Chairman to report the statistic to how many

church presentations were made each month.


6. Communicating with the GideonCard Chairman to report how many GideonCard

donations were made, how many GideonCard video presentations were led by

Gideons or Auxiliary, and how many churches participated in the Birthday for Jesus

program.

7. Communicating with the Auxiliary Secretary/Treasurer to ensure accurate reporting

of Auxiliary Scripture Funds or Faith Funds received for the HEART Program or

Auxiliary Events.

8. Issuing a donation receipt using the Receipt Template available in the Camp

Treasurer’s Tools or by using the Donation Receipt (Item 206).

9. Sending a copy of the receipts to International Headquarters for contributions of

$250 or more from individual donors.

10. Forwarding promptly to the International Headquarters any notice of, or proceeds

from, a will or estate received by the camp or any gifts of securities.

11. Consulting with the Development Division at International Headquarters prior to

accepting gifts to The Gideons International of real estate or other property.

12. Accounting for camp operating expenses, such as postage, meals, etc., and paying

for them using only Camp General Funds. Scripture Funds must never be used to

pay for general camp expenses.

13. Reviewing the Monthly Camp Report published on theConnection for accuracy.

14. Presenting a written report at every monthly camp cabinet meeting on the status of

both Scripture Funds and Camp General Funds.

15. Reviewing the monthly bank statement and giving a copy to the camp president

after reconciling the bank statement to the checkbook.

16. Completing the Monthly Camp Banking report on theConnection and uploading the

bank statement by the 15th of the following month for audit purposes.

17. Acquiring an understanding of all the Camp Treasury Tools available.


camp activities.

19. Having records audited annually immediately following the end of the fiscal year

(May 31st). Providing a copy of the audit to the camp president

20. Retaining all financial records for five years. Turning over all records to the new

treasurer in a timely manner when the term is complete


CAMP CHAPLAIN

The camp chaplain promotes the spiritual strength and well-being of the camp. In doing so, he

should exhibit compassion for members and their families, promptly representing the camp in

times of severe illness, bereavement, and other special needs. The camp chaplain should not

attempt to supplant the responsibility of the member’s church in his response to their spiritual

needs, but he should come alongside the church to offer additional support.

The Prayer & Personal Witnessing Program is the responsibility of the camp chaplain. Chaplains

have the opportunity to raise the standards as they encourage members to practice daily prayer,

Bible reading, and continual personal witnessing. Details of administering the program are

found in the Prayer & Personal Witnessing Manual (Item 400).

Additionally, the camp chaplain:

1. Promotes reading through the Bible annually using the Bible Reading Calendar (Item 414).

2. Encourages daily prayer for the ministry and daily quiet time among members using the

Daily Prayer and Bible Reading Calendar (Item 411) and Quiet Time Journal (Item 417).

3. Promotes members taking advantage of the Hour of Power, praying for the ministry

between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m., for a few minutes as individual members have time.

4. Promotes Scripture memorization among members using the Scripture Memory Course

(Item 404KJV/404ESV).

5. Personally, conducts or assigns another Gideon to conduct the Scripture reading and

prayer aspects of camp and cabinet meetings.

6. Assists with Bible dedications, hospital services, and other camp activities that may

involve Scripture reading and prayer.

7. Assists members to develop their personal witnessing aptitude using Gideon tracts

(Items 405-408), the Gideon Bible App, Personal Workers Testaments (Items 4080,

4380), Personal Witnessing Tool Kit (Items 4002, 4003), and the books, Share Jesus

Without Fear (Item 415) and Secret to an Open Door (Item 418).

8. Arranges for and moderates the camp weekly prayer meetings, which may include

breakfast.

9. Works with pastors and other Gideons to arrange for personal follow-up with people

who have indicated a need for spiritual guidance during Scripture placements,

distributions, and dedications.

10. Arranges and promotes the camp’s annual International Day of Prayer (second Saturday

in June). Leads the International Day of Prayer by following the agenda developed by

the international chaplain and involving as many members as possible.


11. Notifies the state association chaplain of deceased Gideons and Auxiliary, using the

Deceased Member Report (Item 106) found on theConnection.

12. Carefully and prayerfully follows the Discipline Manual (Item 103) whenever the

spiritual, moral, or ethical integrity of a member is in question.


activities.

By guarding the spiritual strength of the camp and its individual members, the camp chaplain

assures that the Seven Spiritual Objectives that undergird our ministry become personal

standards by which we should live:

• Men of the Book

• Men of Faith

• Men of Prayer

• Men of Separated Walk

• Men of Compassionate Heart

• Men Who Witness

• Men Who Give

It’s easy to see from the foregoing list that the camp chaplain’s job is far greater than just

reading Scripture and praying at camp meetings. He has a momentous responsibility since

The Gideons International is, indeed, a spiritual organization.

COMMON RESPONSIBILITIES OF PROGRAM CHAIRMEN

The camp program chairmen are central to the effectiveness of the ministry within each of the

international programs. Each serves for a one-year term but is not subject to a limitation in the

number of terms served. The program chairmen serve as members of the camp cabinet, and

each has the responsibility to coordinate camp activities as they relate to the program for which

he has been appointed while recognizing the synergy with which all the programs function to

the success of the camp.

All program chairmen are expected to make regular written reports at camp cabinet meetings.

Reports should provide an overview of both completed and planned activities that leverage the

program to sharpen the testimony of members and will thus result in achievement of the camp’s

annual goals. In addition to being committed men of God with a burden to reach others for

Christ, program chairmen should also:

1. Be able to motivate others.

2. Practice sound principles of delegation, management, and leadership.


3. Be committed to engaging members in program activities that strengthens their

testimony for Christ.

4. Understand all details in the program for which they have been chosen.

5. Be wholly cognizant of the relationship between his program and the worldwide need

for the Word of God.

6. Establish and maintain a personal and corporate standard of excellence in all camp

activities.

CHURCH MINISTRY CHAIRMAN

The Church Ministry Program is the responsibility of the camp church ministry chairman. This

encompasses several different aspects: church relations, church presentations, church speaker

development, and obtaining church services. Details of administering the program are found in

the Church Ministry Program Manual (Item 223); however, the specific responsibilities of the

Church Ministry Program chairman are enumerated here:

1. Church Relations

a. Maintain on theConnection a current listing of all available information for each

church in the camp territory.

b. With the approval of the camp cabinet, appoint a Gideon church representative

to act as a liaison between the church and the camp for as many churches in the

camp territory as possible.

i. Promote intentionally developing and maintaining positive relationships

with churches and pastors.

ii. Provide church representatives with information, training, and materials

to successfully accomplish their task.

c. Schedule and hold two Church Relations Days annually to contact churches

where no church representative is functioning.

d. Work with the camp vice president to schedule and hold an Annual Pastors

Event.

e. Work with the GideonCard chairman to assure GideonCard materials are readily

available for church representatives and Church Relations Days.

f. Work with the membership chairman to be sure information and materials are

available for church representatives and Church Relations Days.


2. Church Presentations

a. Obtain Gideon presentations in the same number of churches as the last fiscal year

through:

i. Church representatives

ii. Church Relations Days

iii. Personal contact

b. Communicate the details of church presentations and supply supportive materials to

pastors and church speakers as outlined in the Church Ministry Manual (Item 223).

i. Immediately after receiving the information gathered on the Gideon Church

Presentation form (Item 202), secure a qualified church speaker and assign a

prayer partner.

ii. Send a confirmation letter to the pastor (see sample letter on theConnection).

iii. Provide all pertinent materials to the church presenter:

• Completed Church Presentation Envelope (Item 205)

• Completed Church Presentation Information form (Item 202)

• Receipts for Offering and Gifts (Item 206)

• Directions to the church, if needed

• A Church Bulletin Insert (Item 209)

• Sample GideonCards (obtain from GideonCard chairman)

• Friends of Gideons Brochure (Item 313)

iv. Deliver the appropriate number of Church Bulletin Inserts (Item 209) to the

church at least 10 days prior to the presentation.

3. Speaker Development

a. Pray for church presenters as they qualify, re-qualify, and continue to improve their

messages.

b. Promote the blessings of being a church presenter. Identify members who could be

church speakers and encourage them to pursue qualification.

c. Provide necessary materials and instructions to potential church presenters that will

allow them to proceed with the qualification process. Follow up with members who


are preparing to qualify as presenters.

d. Secure the venue for the qualifying presentation, which must be a church-like

setting.

e. Assemble the necessary outline and presentation evaluation teams.

f. Ensure the speaker evaluation process is handled promptly and efficiently; don’t

allow a potential presenter’s enthusiasm to become cold because of procrastination.

g. Maintain a record of presentation activity for each church speaker on theConnection.

h. Send the pastors of all churches where Gideon presentations are to be held an

Evaluation of Gideon Presentation form (Item 215) along with a self-addressed,

stamped envelope one week prior to the presentation (see sample letter on

theConnection).

i. Also furnish a copy of this form to the prayer partner assigned to

accompany the church presenter.

ii. Receive the evaluation from the pastor and prayer partner and notate the

date of receipt as part of the presenter’s record on theConnection.

iii. Together with the camp president, review any negative comments from

pastors or prayer partners with the Gideon speaker to encourage him to

improve. Take corrective action as needed according to the guidelines in the

Church Ministry Manual (Item 223).

i. Assure that all camp church presenters are re-qualified every four years by providing

them information, inspiration, and materials to accomplish that requirement.

j. Schedule regular qualifying/re-qualifying opportunities.

k. Encourage presenters to qualify using PowerPoint and video as a part of their

presentations. Be sure all video-qualified presenters have a copy of the latest church

ministry DVD or access to the online link.

A cursory review of the foregoing list indicates the camp Church Ministry chairman cannot

fulfill all the responsibilities alone. He should establish a Church Ministry Committee with

specific duties assigned to each member. For example, one committee member may be

responsible for speaker development, another for church presentations, and another for church

relations. Either of these three is a great deal of responsibility in itself, so each area may be

broken down further by enlisting additional committee members, depending largely on the size

of the camp.

Aspects of the Church Ministry Program:


i. Maintain by scheduling a presentation in every church in which a service

was held in the previous year;

ii. Grow by contacting and visiting every church every year;

iii. Develop by contacting churches where there has been no service in the last

three years or more;

iv. Intentionally develop a relationship with the pastor or church leader in every

eligible church in the camp territory.


activities.

GIDEONCARD CHAIRMAN

The GideonCard Bible Program should not be viewed in isolation. It is complementary to the

Church Ministry Program in that GideonCard displays in churches provide the most prominent

venue for Christian people to use the cards. It is complementary to the Scripture Distribution

Program in that its funds providing God’s Word for the world. It is complementary to the Faith

Fund Program in that 50% of GideonCard receipts are used to supply Scriptures in the

International Outreach Ministry, thus affecting the Faith Fund goal. It is complementary to the

Membership Program in that members themselves use the cards, give GideonCard Sample

Packs (Item 825) to friends and family, and make presentations to promote the GideonCard

Bible Program.

Details can be found in the GideonCard Bible Program Manual (Item 814) on theConnection.

The camp GideonCard Chairman should encourage the use of GideonCards in his camp by

suggesting giving cards for specific occasions, events, etc. He should also make GideonCards

available at each camp meeting. The GideonCard chairman promotes all efforts to attain the

camp’s GideonCard goal.

The GideonCard chairman is also a member of the camp cabinet. He should make a regular

presentation on the GideonCard Bible Program at camp cabinet meetings, reporting on the

progress of the program with respect to annual goals.

The GideonCard chairman’s areas of responsibility are:

1. Execute and promote the GideonCard Bible Program to achieve the camp’s fiscal year

goal.

2. Supervise the camp GideonCard Committee.

3. Execute all phases of the GideonCard Bible Program. This includes sending appropriate

GideonCards when requested.

4. Prepare and execute all GideonCard Bible Program activities involved in a Church


Relations Day.

5. Review the monthly camp report on theConnection to determine progress and monitor

results.

6. Maintain proper listings and reports on theConnection. Solicit the camp webmaster for

assistance, if needed.

7. Implement special programs, such as holiday card offerings.

8. Report program progress at camp cabinet meetings.

9. Use the GideonCard regional program leader as a resource for assistance.

10. Arrange for Gideons and Auxiliary, where appropriate, to personally visit and present an

“In Memoriam” Bible (special “In Memoriam” labels are available – Item 823) to the

bereaved when the GideonCard Bible Program is used in connection with a funeral.

11. Promote the camp program by bringing a display to meetings and encouraging use by

members.


activities.

The GideonCard chairman obviously cannot be expected to conduct the entire program alone. A

Camp GideonCard Committee should be formed to assist with various aspects of the program.

The Auxiliary liaison serves as a member of the committee to coordinate the Auxiliary’s

responsibility within the program. The Auxiliary liaison coordinates presentations of the

GideonCard Bible Program to all-women church groups. Depending on the size of the camp, a

GideonCard committee may also consist of:

a. Materials and Displays Member to be responsible for keeping all the cards

formatted and inventoried, being sure the church and funeral home displays are

up to date and available, and the presentation videos are available to be shown

at the approved venues.

b. Video Scheduling Member to be responsible for coordination of video showings

in churches.

c. Record Keeping Member to be responsible for keeping all donor and location

records up to date on theConnection. This member may also be assigned

responsibility for acknowledging GideonCard gifts.

d. In Memoriam Presentation Member to make presentations to the bereaved

when the GideonCard Bible Program is used in connection with a funeral.


The potential of the camp GideonCard Bible Program can be very significant; therefore, the

program must be implemented with diligence and a vision for reaching the lost.

MEMBERSHIP CHAIRMAN

The camp membership chairman manages the process of recruiting, activating, and retaining

members. He should be familiar with all the details of recruitment and retention programs as

described in the Membership Program Manual (Item 128). Therefore, he:

1. Leads the camp to review the Gideon and Auxiliary Opportunities Worksheet (Item

107) with all members annually.

2. Develops and maintains a file of prospective new members on theConnection.

3. Implements action plans with the assistance of the camp cabinet to attain the annual

camp goal of growing the membership.

4. Reports progress toward goal achievement at camp cabinet meetings.

5. Plans and executes the Annual Membership Dinner according to the Membership

Program Manual (Item 128).

6. Serves as liaison between the camp and the state association when a Camp

Development Plan or Membership Development Plan is scheduled and executed

according to the Membership Program Manual (Item 128)

7. Assists the camp president in retention of members through a Membership Renewal

Project. Encourages all members to renew their membership by submitting membership

renewal payments by April 30 for the following fiscal year to avoid being delinquent.

Unpaid members are removed from the membership roll as of April 30.

8. Seeks the input and assistance of every camp member with respect to identifying

prospective new members.

9. Maintains a complete inventory of supplies and makes them available to members for

individual recruiting needs. Supplies include:

a. Gideon Membership Application (Item 501)

b. Auxiliary Membership Application (Item 603)

c. Membership Program Manual (Item 128)

d. Candidate Invitation Brochure (Item 352)

e. Candidate Invitation Card (Item 354)

10. Constantly promotes the need for new members among the existing membership and


develops within the membership the sense of a recruiter’s heart.


activities.

CAMP SCRIPTURE CHAIRMAN

The camp Scripture chairman is responsible for ordering all Scriptures for the camp, including

Auxiliary Scriptures, in which case he coordinates closely with the Auxiliary Scripture secretary.

His duties include storage, transportation, display, and delivery of Scriptures to accommodate

placements, distributions, blitzes, etc. It is important he use a current Scripture Order Form

(Item 507) when ordering Scriptures with his camp number be recorded on the form.

As is the case of all other officers, the camp Scripture chairman serves as the leader of a team

that accomplishes the task of Scripture distribution. Details of the Scripture distribution and

placement program are found in the Scripture Distribution Manual (Item 115), the current

edition of which the chairman should have in his possession.

The Scripture Chairman:

1. With the assistance of other members, constantly surveys the need for Scriptures in the

camp territory. All officers and members of the camp should be alert to opportunities

for Scripture placements within the camp territory.

2. Reports the results of Scripture placements and distributions monthly to the camp

cabinet, along with those that are planned for the future.

3. Maintains on theConnection a list of all Scripture placement and distribution venues within

the camp territory and ensures placements and distributions are made systematically.

4. Maintains on theConnection a complete record of all placements and distributions of

Bibles and New Testaments conducted by his camp.

5. Arranges to have a suitable Scripture display (when appropriate) for camp activities,

such as Bible dedications, Annual Pastors Events, etc.

6. Completes a Camp Scripture Fund Credit Agreement (Item 504) and submits it with any

Scripture order that would result in a negative Scripture fund balance.

7. Contacts the state Scripture coordinator for potential use of the Emergency Scripture

Fund when camp Scripture funds are insufficient to cover large Scripture orders.

8. Maintains complete and current knowledge of all policies and guidelines related to

Scripture distributions and placements as found in the Scripture Distribution Manual

(Item 115).

9. Provides enforcement of Gideon Scripture placement and distribution policies in the

camp.


Note: If any member for any reason cannot or will not follow the policies and guidelines

for placement and distribution of Scriptures, he must not be allowed to participate due

to the potential of bringing irreparable harm upon the ministry.


activities.

The camp Scripture chairman is at the heart of the ministry in terms of spreading the Word of

God, so men, women, boys, and girls will have an opportunity to learn of Jesus’ saving grace.

This work is the forefront of camp activity. All Gideons should be engaged in our purpose of

reaching others for Christ through Scripture placement and distribution.

FAITH FUND CHAIRMAN

Scripture distributions in international outreach countries and supported national associations

are largely influenced by the camp Faith Fund chairman. Therefore, he should have a complete

understanding of his camp’s role in worldwide Scripture distribution.

He promotes giving to the Faith Fund to attain the goal in cooperation with the state Faith

Fund coordinator and the Faith Fund regional program leader. The camp Faith Fund chairman

is a member of the camp cabinet.

His specific duties include:

1. At the discretion of the camp president, making a Faith Fund appeal during the

discretionary time of the monthly camp meeting using the Faith Fund section of the

International Bulletin.

2. Promoting Faith Fund giving through:

a. Establishing, with concurrence of the camp cabinet, the goal for the camp’s

Annual Faith Fund Rally or Annual Pastors Event

b. The state’s Countdown 100 Program that takes place during the 100 days prior to

the state association convention

c. The camp newsletter

3. Coordinating Friends of Gideons at the camp level through:

a. Welcoming each new friend via a phone call. Camps are notified from

International Headquarters via the camp report when a new friend is registered.

b. Inviting friends to the camp Annual Pastors Event and Faith Fund Rally.

Friends are expected to pay for their own meals. Friends do not participate in

Scripture distributions, camp meetings, or functions other than Annual Pastors

Events, Faith Fund Rallies, and International Day of Prayer.


c. Understanding funding stream. The camp will receive a $12.00 rebate after the

end of the fiscal year for each friend who is registered as a financial partner. The

rebate is used to offset camp expenses for Friends of Gideons. The first $120.00

received each year from a Friend of Gideons may be used at the Finance

Committee’s discretion for Scripture distribution support cost. Additional

contributions from friends, when undesignated, will be credited to the

International Outreach Fund. There is no indication on the camp report as to a

friend’s level of financial support.


camp activities.

CAMP WEBMASTER

The camp webmaster is appointed annually by the camp president with approval of the camp

cabinet. He is not a member of the camp cabinet; therefore, he has neither voice nor vote in

conducting the business of the camp. The camp webmaster is accountable to the camp secretary

and may concurrently hold the office of camp secretary with approval of the camp cabinet;

however, the camp secretary is limited to three consecutive one-year terms.

The camp webmaster assists the camp in maintaining camp data on theConnection and retrieving

data to benefit the camp as necessary. The camp webmaster performs his function in keeping

with standards and protocols established by the Information Technology Division at

International Headquarters. Camps are not authorized to develop their own websites outside of

the design, format, and technology developed by the Information Technology Division at

International Headquarters.

The webmaster maintains a working knowledge of features on theConnection as developed by

International Headquarters and assists members in their use. He restricts camp postings on

theConnection to Gideon-related business, and he secures the approval of a camp cabinet member

(usually the camp secretary) prior to posting any information, including photographs, on

theConnection. He assures that all information of any kind posted on theConnection on behalf of the

camp is in compliance with policies and procedures established by the International Cabinet

and, when in question, verifies such compliance with the state cabinet or International

Headquarters. The camp webmaster is responsible for updating camp utilities on theConnection as

they are developed by International Headquarters and become available for use by camps.

Realizing that not all Gideons are well acquainted with electronic media, the camp webmaster

works closely with the camp cabinet and individual members, as appropriate, to assist in the area

of electronic communications, providing reports and forms in support of camp programs.


CAMP AUXILIARY PRESIDENT

The camp Auxiliary president performs all duties pertaining to that office. She prayerfully plans,

presides over, and participates in camp activities, giving glory to the Lord. Specifically, she will:

1. Be committed to attend every Gideon cabinet meeting and report the status of Auxiliary goals.

2. Report to Auxiliary cabinet members the information, important dates, and distributions

from the Gideon cabinet meeting.

3. Plan and preside at Auxiliary cabinet meetings or delegate to the camp Auxiliary vice

president, if necessary.

4. Plan and present the Auxiliary president’s report at camp meetings.

5. Participate in the recognizing new Auxiliary, preferably at a camp meeting.

6. Serve as a member of the Auxiliary area team and attend the area team meeting as

scheduled by the area director within two weeks of the state leadership team meeting.

7. Promote the HEART Program, in the camp, 100 days before the state association

convention.

8. Attend the state association convention, especially the Saturday morning Auxiliary

presidents’ breakfast, and deliver the camp offering during roll call.

9. Attend the camp presidents conference held by the state Auxiliary president following

the biennial Auxiliary Presidents Conference.

10. Attend and promote the area, regional, state, and/or camp Auxiliary Events.

11. Encourage all Auxiliary to assist in activating inactive members, regardless of their

husband’s activity.

12. Plan and promote participation in possible activities to engage non-member wives of

Gideons to become active Auxiliary members.

13. Oversee Auxiliary activities relating to the camp’s Annual Pastors Event, including

inviting wives (not spouses) of pastors to attend the traditional evening banquet with

their husbands. See Church Ministry Program Manual (Item 223) for details regarding

the Annual Pastors Event.

14. Personally send, or delegate to a communications committee, agendas and/or an item of

encouragement to active, inactive, and non-member wives, and ascertain whether they

may have prayer needs to be included in Auxiliary prayer meetings.

15. Establish and maintain a personal and corporate standard of excellence in all activities.


The Auxiliary president sets the manner for the direction and implementation of the Five Core

Programs in her camp. She must inspire the Auxiliary cabinet and membership to fulfill their

roles with the ministry’s singular goal in mind and lead them to realize the significance of their

service to our Lord Jesus Christ. In that sense, the Auxiliary president is a spark plug. She

should produce a spark in her Auxiliary, which will ignite a passion to further God’s Kingdom.

While there is much work to be done in the camp, the Auxiliary president cannot do the work

alone. Through her passion and inspiration, she coordinates the efforts of the camp with the

assistance of her Auxiliary cabinet and membership.

CAMP AUXILIARY VICE PRESIDENT

The Auxiliary vice president performs all the duties of the president in her absence and assists

the president whenever possible. In addition, she:

1. Oversees personal enlistment of new members.

2. Focuses on activating less active members.

3. Reaches out to non-member Gideon wives.

4. Attends, participates, and presents the membership report at all Auxiliary cabinet

meetings.

5. Attends the area, regional, state, and/or camp Auxiliary Events.

6. Serves as chairman of the name tag, communications, and table decoration committees.


activities.

Membership in The Auxiliary of The Gideons International is a joy. This blessing is only fully

realized by individual Auxiliary members when they become active in some aspect of the work.

As with the president, the Auxiliary vice president inspires the membership to be active in the

ministry. Her focus is specifically membership. Even though everyone participates in

membership, the Auxiliary vice president’s responsibility is to encourage growth and value of

membership. Using the Gideon and Auxiliary Opportunities Worksheet (Item 107), the vice

president should enlist Auxiliary members to become mentors. Through the mentoring process,

relationships are built resulting in personal spiritual growth, additional prayer power, more

hands to distribute the Scriptures, more personal witnessing, and more Scripture funds, thereby

resulting in more souls won for the Lord Jesus Christ. In addition to mentoring members, the

Auxiliary vice president should organize Auxiliary teams to pray, call, and visit non-member

Gideon wives encouraging them to join the ministry. Suggested items for membership visits

include:


• Prayer materials

− Bible Reading Calendar

− International Prayer Calendar

− State Prayer Calendar

− Camp Prayer Calendar

• Additional items

− Possible Activities List

− Calendar of camp meetings and prayer meetings

− Auxiliary membership application

CAMP AUXILIARY SECRETARY/TREASURER

The secretary/treasurer performs all duties pertaining to that office; specifically, she will:

1. Keep careful and accurate minutes of all proceedings at each cabinet meeting, making

notes of all motions, carried or not. Make a copy of the minutes available to all

members.

2. Handle all correspondence prayerfully and promptly.

3. Unless specifically handled by Auxiliary Camp Development Leaders or Annual

Membership Dinner moderators, forward Auxiliary membership applications, along

with membership payments, to:

Membership Services Department

The Gideons International

P. O. 140800

Nashville, TN 37214-0800

4. Maintain a complete and current roster of all camp Auxiliary members, including:

Name

Mailing address

Auxiliary membership number

Phone number

Email address, if available

Make a copy of the camp Auxiliary membership roster available to all Auxiliary

members. The camp Auxiliary roster can be obtained on theConnection.


5. Immediately after each annual election, ensure the officer conducting the election and

the camp secretary receive a complete list of all newly elected and appointed camp

Auxiliary officers.

6. Order Auxiliary supplies and Auxiliary Personal Workers Testaments through the

International Headquarters merchandise ordering system, either manually using the

Merchandise Order Blank (Item 502) or, preferably, on theConnection.

All Scripture orders other than Personal Workers Testaments are ordered through the

camp Scripture chairman.

7. Ensure the number of Auxiliary GideonCard presentations are reported monthly to the

camp treasurer, so he can accurately report them on the camp Scripture Funds

Remittance form (Item 503).

8. Reconcile with the camp treasurer at the end of each monthly camp meeting amounts

given to the Auxiliary Scripture Fund. Any contributions received by the Auxiliary

secretary/treasurer should be promptly given to the camp treasurer in an envelope

clearly marked “Auxiliary Scripture Fund.” The camp treasurer is responsible for

promptly remitting Auxiliary Scripture Funds, properly designated as such. The

Auxiliary secretary/treasurer monitors the monthly camp report on theConnection to

assure Auxiliary Scripture Funds have been properly credited.

9. Receive free-will offerings at Auxiliary meetings for the Camp Auxiliary Fund for

incidental expenses, such as the cost of prayer center materials, favors for visitors, etc.

10. Maintain an accurate accounting of the Camp Auxiliary Fund.


activities.

CAMP AUXILIARY CHAPLAIN

The chaplain is the spiritual leader of the camp Auxiliary. She encourages the Auxiliary and

performs the following duties:

1. Lead in prayer.

Be the one who sets the example for the Auxiliary in the primary function of praying for the

ministry. Lead in Auxiliary prayer times and encourage all Auxiliary likewise.

a. Plan and moderate all Auxiliary prayer meetings or designate a substitute

moderator, when necessary. The Auxiliary chaplain is responsible for Scripture

reading, a brief devotion, praise report or testimony of answered prayer and

leading the Auxiliary in the actual prayer time.

b. Encourage participation in the International Hour of Power, for Auxiliary to

take a few moments from 7 a.m. to 8 a.m. to pray specifically for the needs of


the ministry.

c. Urge members to take advantage of a daily quiet time using the Daily Bible

Reading Calendar (Item 414), prayer calendars, and Quiet Time Journal (Item 417).

d. Initiate the camp Auxiliary prayer chain for urgent Gideon-related prayer needs

and praise reports.

The Auxiliary prayer chain should be initiated only by the camp Auxiliary

chaplain (for specific urgent camp needs), the state Auxiliary chaplain (for

specific urgent state needs), or the international Auxiliary chaplain (for specific

urgent international needs). The Gideon policy on things we do or do not

discuss at Gideon and Auxiliary meetings also applies to prayer chains. Prayer

chain items should be kept brief and accurate. To ensure confidentiality, direct

contact should be made with prayer chain participants; do not leave prayer

requests on telephone answering machines. If a person cannot be contacted,

contact the next person on the list. These guidelines apply to both telephone

and email prayer chains. It is always encouraging to communicate, back through

the prayer chain, praise reports for answered prayer.

e. Work with the camp chaplain to plan and promote the International Day of

Prayer, held the second Saturday of June.

2. Encourage personal witnessing. Be a personal witness and set the example for the camp

Auxiliary. Encourage Auxiliary members to use Personal Workers Testaments (Item

4090, 4390) in their daily activities. Use Personal Witnessing Tool Kit (Item 6002, 6003),

Gideon Bible App Cards (Item 403), Share Jesus Without Fear (Item 415), Secret to An

Open Door (Item 418) and tracts as resources to encourage personal witnessing.

3. Participate in Scripture distributions. The camp Auxiliary chaplain should participate in

distributions at domestic violence shelters and crisis pregnancy centers. In Auxiliary jail

and prison ministry distributions, when possible, she may:

a. Relate salvation testimonies.

b. Share the Gospel through music, prayer, and individual spiritual counseling.

c. Present the Gospel and give invitations to receive Christ as Savior.

d. Lead a Bible study, avoiding any controversial doctrinal matters.

All such services must be arranged with the permission of jail/prison

authorities. Auxiliary distribute Facilities Testaments to female inmates. Jail or

prison chaplains may distribute the Testaments if, and only if, the facility is

closed to visits by Gideons and Auxiliary. Each jail and prison facility has its

own policies, and these must be strictly followed by Auxiliary.


Used Bibles may be placed in cells and chapels, and they should be included in

“Bibles Placed” in the Auxiliary records.

4. Internalize the Seven Spiritual Objectives. The Auxiliary chaplain should make the seven

spiritual objectives part of her daily life and encourage all camp Auxiliary to do likewise:

a. Women of the Book

b. Women of Faith

c. Women of Prayer

d. Women of Separated Walk

e. Women of Compassionate Heart

f. Women Who Witness

g. Women Who Give

5. Provide prayerful assistance to other camp Auxiliary in times of sickness, bereavement,

and personal trials.

6. Communicate notification of death of the wife of a Gideon, whether or not she is an

Auxiliary, using the Deceased Member Report (Item 106) on theConnection. Include the

deceased’s name and address, Auxiliary membership number if applicable, and the name

and address of the Gideon or other survivor.


activities.

8. Conduct outreach to widows in the camp. Encourage the widows in your camp to

remain active members of the Association in honor of their husband’s legacy of faith. In

addition, many widows long for the continued fellowship of women who are like-

minded and have a deep burden and love for reaching the lost. Many widows cannot be

active, yet they continue to support the ministry through active prayer lives, the

GideonCard Bible Program, and financial gifts. They are a special asset to the ministry.

Below are some specific ways to stay connected with the widows in your camp:

Keep an up-to-date list of your camp widows. Take time to visit them—if for no

other reason than to check on them and have prayer with them. When possible, go out

for coffee or lunch together. A personal touch is always best; do not assume they have

access to the internet.

Encourage widows to participate. Make an intentional effort to keep them intimately

connected to this ministry. Promote active participation in every phase of the ministry

by:

a. Sending personal letters.


b. Sending holiday greeting cards.

c. Encouraging attendance at Auxiliary Events, state and international convention.

d. Providing transportation to meetings, distributions, conventions, and prayer

meetings.

e. Discussing the options of paying her dues or encouraging “veteran

membership.”

AUXILIARY GIDEONCARD LIAISON

The primary members of the Auxiliary cabinet elect the Auxiliary GideonCard liaison, and she

becomes a member of the camp Auxiliary cabinet. She serves on the camp GideonCard

Committee. As such, she is responsible for communicating details of the GideonCard Bible

Program to the camp Auxiliary and securing Auxiliary participation in the program as needed.

She is specifically responsible for the following activities:

1. Serve as the GideonCard Bible Program communication link between the Gideon

cabinet and the camp Auxiliary.

2. Coordinate all Auxiliary GideonCard activities with the GideonCard chairman.

3. Contact all-women church groups for the purpose of arranging a GideonCard

presentation by the Auxiliary.

4. Coordinate equipment and any other Auxiliary needs with the GideonCard chairman

when a video showing is scheduled at all-women church groups.

5. Coordinate reporting and handling any GideonCard offerings received as a result of

Auxiliary presentations.

6. Provide training for Auxiliary to present the GideonCard presentations and/or video at

all-women church groups.

7. Ensure the number of GideonCard presentations by the Auxiliary is properly reported

to the camp treasurer, so he can accurately report the results on the Scripture

Remittance Form (Item 503) at least monthly.


activities.


AUXILIARY SCRIPTURE SECRETARY

The Auxiliary Scripture secretary ensures Auxiliary conduct distributions in all approved areas of

Auxiliary Scripture distribution in the camp territory. It is especially important that she

encourage all Auxiliary to participate in this vital activity. Her specific duties include:

1. Prepare and maintain a complete listing of camp Auxiliary Scripture distribution points

on theConnection.

2. Have sufficient supplies on hand to effectively carry out Scripture distributions as

needed; e.g., supplies for distributions at medical conventions.

3. Maintain a proper inventory of all Auxiliary Scriptures needed. All Auxiliary Scriptures,

other than Personal Workers Testaments, are ordered by the Gideon Scripture

chairman; however, the Auxiliary Scripture secretary must communicate needs with him.

[See Auxiliary Distribution Checklist on the following page.]

4. Understand and enforce Association policies regarding Scripture distribution as they

pertain to the Auxiliary.

Note: If any member for any reason cannot or will not follow the policies and guidelines

for placement and distribution of Scriptures, she must not be allowed to participate due

to the potential of bringing irreparable harm to the ministry.

5. In conjunction with the camp Scripture chairman, contact hospitals and nursing homes

to arrange for joint distributions. Be prepared to furnish Auxiliary with Medical

Testaments for hospital personnel and Personal Workers Testaments for personal

witnessing during these distributions.

6. Be sure an adequate number of Auxiliary are committed to participate in all Scripture

distributions and placements.

7. Contact domestic violence shelters, crisis pregnancy centers, and correctional facilities to

arrange for Scripture distributions.

8. Record the number of Scriptures placed on theConnection and report figures at the next

camp Auxiliary cabinet meeting.

9. Be thoroughly familiar with approved procedures for Medical Testament distributions

as found in Five Core Programs of The Auxiliary of The Gideons International (Item 600) and

enforce them at all such distributions.


AUXILIARY DISTRIBUTION CHECKLIST

Bibles Medical

Testaments

Facilities

Testaments

Personal Workers

Testaments

Distributed by: Auxiliary members




Ordered by: Camp Scripture Chairman



Ordered by: Auxiliary Secretary/Treasurer or individual Auxiliary members

Funded by: Camp Scripture Fund



Funded by: Auxiliary members personally

Placed in: Rooms of domestic violence shelters, crisis pregnancy centers, waiting rooms of medical facilities, including medical and dental office waiting rooms, medical waiting rooms of industrial plants, medical waiting rooms located in pharmacy clinics, and veterinary clinic waiting rooms

Given to: Medical personnel

Given to: Female inmates in correctional facilities, or to chaplains (if access is denied); residents of domestic violence shelters, and staff and clients of crisis pregnancy centers or to chaplains/directors (if access is denied)

Given to: Anyone to whom Auxiliary witness

See Five Core Programs of The Auxiliary of The Gideons International (Item 600) and Scripture

Distribution Manual (Item 115) for additional information relating to approved areas of

Auxiliary distribution.


OPERATIONAL STRUCTURE, CAMP MEETINGS, EVENTS AND PLANNING

THE CAMP CABINET MEETINGS

The Gideon and Auxiliary cabinets are charged with the responsibility for maintaining the

business aspects of a camp; that is, they do the planning, promotion, record keeping, and

communications within the camp. Since no business is conducted at the monthly camp meeting,

it is absolutely necessary that both Gideon and Auxiliary cabinets meet monthly in order to

maintain the business aspects of the camp according to the following suggested agendas. All

camp business, including controversial matters, is handled at the cabinet meetings. In order to

maintain continuity, the Auxiliary president attends and gives a report at the Gideon cabinet

meeting. She has a voice, but does not vote, at the Gideon cabinet meeting.

GIDEON CAMP CABINET MEETING AGENDA

6:00 pm Call to Order President

6:01 Scripture Reading and Prayer Chaplain

6:04 Approval of Minutes of Previous Meeting Secretary

6:06 Treasurer’s Report Treasurer

6:09 Camp Vice President’s Plan Vice President

6:11 Church Ministry Chairman’s Plan Church Ministry Chairman

6:15 Scripture Chairman’s Plan Scripture Chairman

6:19 GideonCard Chairman’s Plan GideonCard Chairman

6:23 Membership Chairman’s Plan Membership Chairman

6:27 Faith Fund Chairman’s Plan Faith Fund Chairman

6:30 Auxiliary President’s Plan Auxiliary President

6:34 Review of Goals and Progress President

6:38 Review of Upcoming Camp Meetings President

6:40 Review of Annual Planner President

6:45 Program Emphasis Member of State Leadership Team

7:05 Unfinished Business President

7:10 New Business President

7:15 Adjournment Prayer Chaplain


From time to time, special matters, such as the Annual Pastors Event, will need to be discussed

in detail. With the exception of such matters, all cabinet members should be mindful of the time

and share their reports with as much brevity as possible. Officer reports should summarize

immediate past accomplishments, plans for the immediate future, and where the camp is with

respect to its annual goals. Detailed written reports should be made available to the other

cabinet members and given to the camp secretary to be included with the meeting minutes.

The cabinet, both individually and collectively, must realize its leadership responsibility to

influence camp activity.

AUXILIARY CAMP CABINET MEETING AGENDA

Welcome and Call to Order Auxiliary President

Prayer Auxiliary Chaplain

Approval of Minutes of Previous Cabinet Meeting Secretary/Treasurer

Officer Reports

President

1. Review Auxiliary goals, progress, and overall health of the camp

2. Share information from Gideon cabinet meeting

3. Share focus of next monthly camp meeting and make assignments as necessary

Vice President

1. Review status of membership and ongoing action plans

2. Share status of visitation to inactive members and non-member wives

3. Discuss upcoming membership meetings; e.g., Annual Membership Dinner

Secretary/Treasurer

1. Review Auxiliary Scripture Fund goal and progress

2. Report of camp Auxiliary General Fund, if applicable

3. Review status and promotion of The HEART Program, if applicable

Chaplain

1. Report on number of prayer meetings (optional)

2. Review jail/prison ministry report

3. Encourage the use of Personal Workers Testaments


4. Encourage ministry to widows

5. Emphasize spiritual growth

6. Review special upcoming prayer meetings; e.g., International Day of Prayer

Scripture Secretary

1. Review Scripture distribution goal and progress

2. Report on recent distributions

3. Announce upcoming distributions

GideonCard Liaison

1. Report on number of presentations made last month and year-to-date

2. Announce upcoming presentations and presenters

3. Discuss promotion of the program

4. Review training opportunities

5. Encourage use of cards and GideonCard Collections

Review upcoming events, such as Annual Pastors Event, Faith Fund Rally, Auxiliary Events,

state or international convention.

Program Emphasis – presentation by a member of the State Auxiliary Leadership Team

concerning upcoming camp Auxiliary programs and activities

Old Business

New Business

Dismiss in Prayer


WEEKLY GIDEON CAMP PRAYER MEETING

Camps hold a weekly prayer meeting for many reasons, including:

• to undergird the entire ministry before the Throne of Grace

• to encourage united prayer for national and world leaders

• to stimulate prayer for churches, pastors, and general Christian work in the camp area

• to unite Gideons in prayer for one another and for the activities of the camp

• to provide fellowship in the spiritual context of who we are as Gideons

The weekly prayer meeting is 30 minutes and moderated by the camp chaplain. Consisting only

of Bible reading and prayer, there should never be any preaching, Bible study, or doctrinal

comments.

Camps generally use the New Testament portion of the Daily Bible Reading Calendar (Item 414)

for Scripture reading, with each Gideon reading a verse at the time until the entire passage is

read. Scripture reading is done from a Gideon approved version of Scripture. It is generally

helpful if a single version is used by all in attendance; therefore, the camp chaplain may have a

supply of New Testaments available for attendees. Camp members may also download the TGI-

Member App, which contains all necessary prayer meeting materials.

After Scripture reading, all those present should be given an opportunity to express prayer

requests, which should be restricted to Gideon activities, pastors and churches, and immediate

personal concerns. This is not the time to voice prayers for healing, extraneous physical needs,

or other matters far removed from those in attendance. It is not the function of the camp to

supplant the prayer ministry of members’ churches.

It is useful to pray for the item(s) on the International Daily Prayer Calendar (Item 411), the prayer

calendar produced by the state association, and other officially produced prayer calendars (e.g.,

the International Convention prayer calendar). Use prayer requests on theConnection for those

traveling worldwide on behalf of The Gideon ministry.

Verbal prayer should always be entirely voluntary. No one should feel obliged to verbalize a

prayer just because it’s his turn when the camp is praying in order around a circle or a table. The

camp chaplain should emphasize a statement, such as, “Please pray aloud as you feel led, and I

will close at the appropriate time.” The common Gideon prayer posture in the USA, for many

years, has been to kneel for prayer; however, no one should be made to feel uncomfortable due

to their inability to kneel.


SAMPLE PRAYER MEETING AGENDA

Moderator – Camp Chaplain

1. Brief opening prayer (1 min)

2. Scripture reading (use New Testament portion of Daily Bible Reading Calendar) (6 min)

3. Gideon-related prayer (use international, state, and camp prayer calendars) (5 min)

4. Prayer (on knees if possible) (14 min)

5. Scripture memorization (verse taken from Item 404) (1 min)

6. Testimony (Camp Chaplain or selected member/local testimony recommended) (2 min)

7. Announcements (1 min)

8. Breakfast and fellowship (for those who are able to attend)

DAILY HOUR OF POWER

All Gideons and Auxiliary are officially urged to spend a few moments, however much time one

can afford, in prayer for the Gideon ministry between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m. daily. The Daily Prayer

and Bible Reading Calendar (Item 411), which is mailed to all members during August or

September, is an excellent tool for the Hour of Power. The Prayer Calendar is also available on

theConnection.

INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER

The second Saturday of June is designated annually as the International Day of Prayer,

worldwide for the ministry of The Gideons International. The extended program and agenda are

drafted by the international chaplain and promoted through official Gideon publications. Each

camp should make plans for this important event. The impact of camps around the world

praying on this special day is tremendous. In all 24 time zones, members are praying for the

needs of The Gideon International, churches, national and world leaders, spiritual awakening,

salvation of lost souls, open doors, and many other considerations. The International Day of

Prayer may be either a joint or separate meeting for Gideons and Auxiliary. Friends of Gideons

may also be invited to this special prayer event.

CAMP AUXILIARY PRAYER MEETINGS

Prayer is the fundamental function necessary for an effective Auxiliary. The camp Auxiliary

chaplain should promote Auxiliary prayer meetings through the camp newsletter, on

theConnection, and by personal contact. She can be used of God to deepen the spiritual life of the

Auxiliary through regular and effective prayer meetings. Since prayer is so central to the

Auxiliary, and the camp as a whole, prayer meetings should be held regularly on a monthly,


semi-monthly, or weekly basis.

Weekly Prayer Breakfast

If Gideon and Auxiliary prayer meetings are held at the same time, the Auxiliary prayer meeting

should be separate from the Gideons, in another area of the facility. At the invitation of the

Gideons, Auxiliary members may join the Gideons during their weekly prayer meeting.

TRAINING ON PRAYER MEETINGS

Training on how to conduct effective Auxiliary prayer meetings should be held whenever

possible. Following are some considerations:

Possible training subjects

• Fervent, effective prayer

• The value of intercessory prayer

• Praying Scripture

• Praying in short, simple sentences

Possible training times

• Additional camp prayer meetings

• In conjunction with camp cabinet meetings

• Training conferences and conventions (camp, state, zone, national or international)

ADVANCE PREPARATION FOR THE CAMP AUXILIARY PRAYER MEETING

• A prayer interest center may be used to create a reverent atmosphere

• Written prayer requests specifically for the ministry, prepared as single-page printouts or on individual cards, obtained from:

- Camp Gideon chaplain for camp needs (including known needs of local

pastors)

- State association paper and state prayer calendar

- Daily Prayer Calendar

- Prayer requests on theConnection (Resources > Prayer Center) or accessible

from the TGI-Member App


CAMP AUXILIARY PRAYER MEETING AGENDA

Moderator – Camp Auxiliary Chaplain or her designee, as necessary

Brief opening prayer (1 min)

Scripture Reading (one to ten verses from a Gideon-approved Scripture version)

Brief Devotional (optional)

A devotional must be limited to two to three minutes, must be carefully selected to be

interesting to members from various denominations, and must avoid any controversial,

doctrinal, or denominational matter.

Brief Testimony or Result of Answered Prayer (optional as time permits)

Prayer Time

Chaplain should encourage members to pray as led with:

• Intercessory prayer for the Gideon ministry

• Praying Scripture

• Simply, using short, simple sentences

• Random as led, not in a circle

• Printed praise and prayer items (see “Advance Preparation”)

Scripture memorization (verse taken from Item 404) (1 minute)

Closing Prayer

The chaplain closes after 20 minutes in a monthly camp meeting, or 30 minutes in an

additional prayer meeting, after all who desire to pray verbally have done so.

MONTHLY CAMP MEETINGS

The monthly experience of fellowship, personal development, and spiritual growth is intended

to foster engagement with other members in preparation for what God is doing in the life of the

camp, as members strive side by side for the faith of the Gospel.

Portions of the monthly camp meeting may be conducted with Gideons and Auxiliary together

or separate. Some camps find it advantageous, especially for Auxiliary considerations, to

conduct a separate prayer time even when the rest of the meeting is held jointly.

Through this event, members around the world will be encouraged to conduct missional

activities as similar times. This will enable prayers to be focused on these events collectively, and


the move of God will be manifested as members join with Him in executing the work of The

Gideons International. Coordinated resources are available for download, equipping the camp

president to moderate and promote participation in this monthly event. Camp leadership should

take time to address the members on camp activities and communicate missional events around

the world. In doing so, camp members will develop a sense of urgency to win the lost for Christ.

Members of the leadership team should be invited to address particular program subjects and

assist with camp activities, when appropriate. For assistance in developing monthly camp

meetings that include a program leader or other state or national leader, the camp president

should contact the area director.

Under the leadership of the camp president, the camp Auxiliary president, with guidance from

the camp Auxiliary cabinet, may occasionally choose to conduct training specific to the work of

Auxiliary during a monthly camp meeting or invite the appropriate Auxiliary leader for

assistance.

The camp president may, at his option, choose to have another Gideon moderate any part of

the monthly camp meeting. Members should be encouraged to share testimonies of their

personal witnessing experiences during the dinner/fellowship time.

SAMPLE MONTHLY CAMP MEETING AGENDA

Welcome Guests and Introductions (up to 3 min) Camp President

Invocation (up to 2 min) Camp Chaplain

Meal/Fellowship (up to 40 min)

Devotion (up to 5 min) Camp Chaplain

Latest News/Developments (up to 5 min) Camp President

Gideon and Auxiliary Prayer Time (up to 15 min) Joint or Separate

Educational Session (up to 20 min) Camp President

Faith Fund Challenge/Offering (up to 5 min) Camp Faith Fund Chairman/Camp Treasurer

Camp President’s Time (up to 15 min) Camp President

Closing Prayer Camp Chaplain


THE ANNUAL PASTORS EVENT

The Annual Pastors Event is the primary public relations tool for the camp and should be

included in the Annual Meeting and Event Planner. This event may be held in the form of a

breakfast, luncheon or traditional evening banquet and must be well planned, promoted, and

executed. Resources for the Annual Pastors Event can be found on theConnection.

WELCOMING NEW MEMBERS

The following process is set to change effective November 2020. Please refer to the next section

for the new process for welcoming new members.

Prior to November 2020: A welcome letter from the international president and a Quick Start

Guide are mailed to every new member as soon as the Membership Committee approves that

person’s application. This will give new members helpful, up-front information on the ministry

of which they are now a part.

Also, a packet of individual welcome packages for each new Gideon and Auxiliary is mailed to

the camp president, containing:

1. A welcome letter from the executive director

2. A Gideon or Auxiliary emblem

3. The individual’s membership card with unique member number

4. A Guide Book or Auxiliary Guide Book

5. A Daily Prayer and Bible Reading Calendar

6. A sample GideonCard

These items should be presented to the new member as a part of the New Member Recognition

Ceremony designed to create a sense of significance of their commitment. The New Member

Recognition Ceremony sample script is also provided in the welcome package and can be

downloaded in the document center on theConnection.

After November 2020: A new member welcome package is mailed to every new member as

soon as the Membership Committee approves that person’s application. This welcome package

includes:

1. A welcome letter from the executive director

2. A Gideon or Auxiliary emblem

3. The individual’s membership card with unique member number

4. A Daily Prayer and Bible Reading Calendar


5. A New Testament and pen for the Gideon and a journal for the Auxiliary

6. A New Member Brochure for the Gideon

The new member should be immediately engaged by the camp president or the Gideon who is

sponsoring the new member. It is a best practice to recognize the new member at your earliest

scheduled camp meeting. The updated New Member Recognition document can be downloaded

from the Document Center on theConnection.

CAMP COMMITTEES

The camp president, with approval of the cabinet, may establish and appoint members to

committees for specific purposes. Given the extent of Gideon programs, many times

committees are required to adequately accomplish the camp’s goals. Such committees may

include, but are not limited to:

• Church Ministry Committee

• GideonCard Committee

• Scripture Distribution Committee

• Membership Committee

• Annual Pastors Event Committee

TOPICS OF DISCUSSION AT GIDEON MEETINGS

The Association has a long-standing policy that prohibits discussion of doctrinal matters and

performance of certain practices regarding which earnest Christians have different opinions.

Specifically, communion services, baptismal services, divine healing meetings, speaking in

tongues, and other similar practices should never be discussed or engaged in during, or in

connection with, Gideon meetings.

From a positive standpoint, we should focus on the power of the Word of God and winning the

lost to Christ, which is the purpose of The Gideons International. When this policy is violated, it

inevitably brings division among the Gideon members and serves to tear down our ministry,

rather than build it up. Obviously, every Gideon has the right to his own persuasion regarding

such doctrinal matters and practices; however, to repeat, we must refrain from discussing or

performing such practices at Gideon meetings and focus on the primary things regarding which

we can all agree as members of this Association.

PLANNING THE ANNUAL CAMP PROGRAM

Gideon events require proper planning in order to maintain a camp culture that both honors

God and engages members.


A. Camp Meeting & Event Planning

Camps plan their meetings and events annually using the Camp Meeting and Event Planner

(Item 125), which is available for download on theConnection. The camp president should call

a special meeting of the camp cabinet to complete the planner. The camp Auxiliary

president attends the meeting and event planning session since the timing of many Auxiliary

activities is dependent on the planning of the Gideons.

The cabinet should review its calendar at the monthly cabinet meeting to assure that all

planned activities have a high probability for a positive outcome. Sometimes the schedule

will need to be revised. The camp planning calendar should also be made available to the

entire camp. A letter from the camp president that encloses the planning calendar is

appropriate. It should also be posted on theConnection camp resource board.

The online camp planners are available on theConnection. The online planner provides camps

a useful tool to combine all their planning, calendar, and goal planning activities in a single

forum.


B. Goal Planning

Goal planning is a year-round spiritual effort by the camp to have discussions related to camp

potential, goal setting, and related engagement planning. The camp cabinet will meet in early

January to determine their camp goals for the upcoming fiscal year in Scripture receipts,

Scripture placements, and church presentations. Goals will be determined based on the potential

that exists within the camp. Membership goals will be determined in June following the

membership renewal time period. The camp will have approximately six weeks in January and

early February to input the goals online in theConnection. Goals are then locked-in by the camp

and the cumulation of goals from all camps in the state association become the goals for that

association. This bottom-up approach puts accountability and responsibility on the camp for the

achievement of the goals which they have determined.

Area Directors and state cabinet leadership, in reviewing the goals set by the camps, are

encouraged to have conversations with the camps throughout the process. That conversation

may result in an agreement to change a camp’s goals. The state cabinet has the ability to make

these changes after camp goals are locked through approximately the 2nd week in March. This

conversation is two-way and should revolve around the potential of a camp. All goals are then

locked in place and submitted to the International Finance Committee and International

Executive Committee.

Activity engagement planning follows the goal-setting process to create opportunities within the

camp to achieve the object of The Gideons International. The Camp Annual Planner is available

on theConnection for planning camp activities. During the activities throughout the year, camp

leaders should work to identify new or additional potential to be included in the next goal

planning cycle. Camp activities allow for camp members to associate together for service,

maintain or strengthen their personal testimony and personal work, and place the Bible––God’s

Holy Word––or portion thereof in their community and around the world.


FUNDING THE CAMP PROGRAM

The three approved methods for securing funds for general expenses of the camp and for

purchasing Scriptures are:

1. Personal contributions and bequests

2. Church offerings

3. The GideonCard Bible Program

It is the responsibility of the Camp Treasurer to keep an accurate, but separate, record of Camp Scripture Funds and Camp General Funds received and deposit them into the camp’s bank account. All accounts opened by camp officers must be set up using the authorized specific employer identification number (EIN) for the respective zone. While it is acceptable to maintain both types of funds in a single bank account, the records must never be co-mingled. Scripture Funds must only be used for Scriptures and Camp General Funds must only be used for the operating expenses of the camp.

THE CAMP SCRIPTURE FUND

The following is a list of Scripture Fund categories. A full description can be found in Camp

Treasurer Manual (Item 512.)

• Church Receipts – 35% allocated to Camp Scripture Fund Balance

• Gideon Card Receipts – 35% allocated to Camp Scripture Fund Balance

• Auxiliary Scripture Fund – 35% allocated to Camp Scripture Fund Balance

• Faith Fund – 100% goes to Faith Fund to buy Scriptures in countries that cannot fund Bible

purchases themselves; 0% allocated to the Camp Scripture Fund Balance

• Camp Scripture Fund – 100% allocated to the Camp Scripture Fund Balance in the Store

and is reported as “Other Desig” on the monthly Camp Report

• USA Outreach Fund – 100% allocated to the USA Outreach Fund and is also reported as

“Other Desig” on the monthly Camp Report

All Scripture Funds should be remitted as soon as the funds are available after the deposits have

had time to clear. At the very least, this should be done once per month.

The Gideons International, P.O. Box 140800, 50 Century Blvd., Nashville, TN 37214, USA, is

the only legal entity of the Association in the United States as recognized both by its charter and

by the USA Internal Revenue Service. Therefore, this address is the only official repository of all

USA Scripture Funds. Very careful attention must be paid to this fact, so the tax-exempt status

of the Association is not questioned or placed in jeopardy.


REMITTING SCRIPTURE FUNDS

USA Camp Treasurers are encouraged to take advantage of theConnection to remit Scripture

Funds electronically (e503), saving both time and money; i.e. delays in delivery and lost checks.

An online enrollment form located in the Camp Treasurer’s Tools must be completed prior to

remitting funds using this method. See Camp Treasurer Manual (Item 512) for detailed

instructions.

The other method for remitting Scripture Funds is for the Camp Treasurer to complete a paper

503 Scripture Remittance form and send it along with a camp check to the following address:

TGI 503 Camp Remittance

P.O. Box 97342

Washington, D.C. 20090-7342

Donations received by credit card cannot be processed by the camp in theConnection at this time.

Credit cards must be submitted with a paper 503C Credit Card Remittance Form. The original,

signed slips with the donor’s name, billing address, legible card number, and expiration date

should be sent along with the Credit Card Remittance Form to:

TGI 503 Camp Remittance

P.O. Box 97342

Washington, D.C. 20090-7342

THE CAMP GENERAL FUND

Gideons themselves provide for the Camp General Fund, which is used to pay for the camp’s

operating expenses such as postage, meals, Gideon Card materials, church presentation

materials, stationery, etc. Many camps secure funds for their General Fund by over-paying the

cost of the meals at the monthly camp meeting or other Gideon event such as a banquet. The

Camp General Fund is held in the camp’s local checking account and never sent to International

Headquarters.

Gideons themselves provide for the Camp General Fund, which is used for camp expenses,

such as meals, supplies, GideonCard materials, church presentation materials, stationery, etc.

Many camps provide for their General Fund by over-paying the cost of meals at the monthly

camp meeting or other activity involving camp expenses. The camp General Fund can also be

managed and tracked on theConnection, although General Fund money is held locally. Camp

treasurers are again encouraged to take advantage of this resource to keep an accurate and

current record of all camp expenses.


MANUAL RECORD KEEPING

The Treasurer’s Record Sheet (Item 510) is designed for keeping a record of camp finances.

Because Scripture Funds are never to be used for general expenses, it is imperative to keep

records of both funds separately. Good record keeping will allow camps to maintain only one

bank account for both types of funds instead of having to maintain a separate bank account for

each.

Instead of using Item 510, a camp treasurer may choose to create an Excel spreadsheet for

record keeping. Since financial records are eventually handed off to a new treasurer, the

spreadsheet should be kept as simple as possible. See the Camp Treasurer Manual (Item 512) for

additional information.

AUDIT

The completion of the Monthly Camp Banking Report and uploading of the camp’s bank

statement has been a camp requirement since the fiscal year 2016-2017. Records of camp banking

activity helps maintain a clean audit opinion which is of great value to the Association, its

members and to donors. All camps operate under the non-profit status of The Gideons

International. This reporting process helps protect the integrity of the Association and the

individuals who serve in Treasurer roles.

The transactions from a camp’s bank statement are summarized in a report located in the Camp

Treasurer’s Tools in theConnection and the corresponding statement is uploaded. See pages 14-16

for detailed information in the Camp Treasurer Manual.

A separate audit should be completed annually. A camp member who has some financial aptitude,

but who has not handled funds in any way would be the primary choice to serve as the auditor.

The current camp president is highly encouraged to attend the audit. The current camp treasurer is

excluded from being auditor, but he should be present to answer questions and provide

explanations.

The auditor is to ensure all records are properly filed and the bank statements have been

reconciled to the checkbook. He is not expected to check every entry for the entire fiscal year

unless the entries are incomplete or not in good order. A written report of the audit results should

be presented to the camp president, the current camp secretary, and the camp treasurer whose

records were audited. See the Camp Treasurer Manual for detailed information.

LEGAL AND TAX-EXEMPT STATUS

The Gideons International is incorporated and exists under the laws of the state of Illinois,

having had its headquarters office in Chicago, Illinois, USA, for over sixty years. Since 1964, the

headquarters office has been located in Nashville, Tennessee. The Association operates in

Tennessee as a foreign corporation; i.e., outside the state of incorporation.


The official corporate name of the Association is The Gideons International, which is a non-

profit membership corporation qualified under paragraph 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue

Code of the United States. The corporation is listed on the IRS website under the Exempt

Organization Select Check. Thus, gifts to The Gideons International may be deducted on USA

federal income tax returns. Documentation from camps of individual gifts in the form of an

official Donation Receipt (Item 206) may be required to ensure compliance with current IRS

regulations. Donation receipts are issued by International Headquarters for all credit card

donations, non-cash donations, and planned gifts/estate bequests.

Cash contributions to The Gideons International are generally deductible for income tax

purposes to the extent of 50% of adjusted gross income with carryover to future years as

allowed. Donations may be designated for the general fund for use in conducting the overall

ministry or to purchase and place Scriptures. Individual receipts may be required to ensure

compliance with current IRS regulations.

Charitable gifts of non-cash assets may also be made, which will allow the fair market value of

the property to be deductible, generally up to 30% of adjusted gross income, if the asset qualifies

for long-term capital gains treatment. The deduction for any other asset depends on its cost

basis. Any deductions that exceed the above noted limits can be carried over into future years as

specified by IRS regulations.

Since tax laws regarding charitable contributions are complex, it is suggested that a donor

contact his accountant or lawyer for advice.

The only non-profit corporation in the USA involving Gideons is The Gideons International,

P.O. Box 140800, 50 Century Blvd., Nashville, Tennessee 37214-0800; all camps and state

associations are unincorporated subsidiaries. Upon receipt of any notification from an executor

or other person concerning an estate or other legal document in which The Gideons will benefit

or is concerned, the camp or state officer should immediately forward complete information to

International Headquarters along with a copy of the document(s), if available. Even though a

bequest may be designated for use by a camp or state association, it is essential that all

correspondence, checks, documents, etc., first be cleared through International Headquarters.

Any gift or potential gift of property other than cash, or any contact by an estate attorney,

executor, or administrator must be referred to the Development Division at International

Headquarters since peculiar tax and legal documentation circumstances may be involved. If

the camp should receive a check from an estate, the camp must not cash it, but send it along

with any other documentation to the Development Division at International Headquarters.

The Tax ID number of The Gideons International is 36-2270051.

The fiscal year of The Gideons International is June 1 through May 31.

ALLOCATION OF CONTRIBUTIONS

FROM CHURCH PRESENTATIONS AND THE GIDEONCARD BIBLE PROGRAM

All contributions to The Gideons International that are received in the USA, either through

offerings at the time of church presentations or through the GideonCard Bible Program


(including Birthday for Jesus), are allocated among Scripture Funds as indicated:

1. Camp Scripture Fund – 35%

This is the major source of the Camp Scripture Fund, from which a camp purchases

Scriptures to be placed or distributed in its geographic area. Under certain unusual

circumstances, part or all of this 35% allocation may be credited to a state association’s

Undistributed Scripture Fund for use by camps within the state association or to assist

with state sponsored Scripture blitzes.

2. Emergency Scripture Fund – 4%

The Emergency Scripture Fund is used basically as the name implies; i.e., for supplying

Scriptures in an urgent situation when other funds are not available. The most common

use of the Emergency Scripture Fund is for USA Metropolitan Scripture Blitzes.

3. USA Outreach Fund – 7%

This is used to provide Scriptures to military personnel, military chaplains, emergency

services personnel and place Scriptures in Veterans Administration hospitals. It is also

the funding source for The Life Book.

4. International Outreach Fund – 50%

This is the major source of funding for the Scriptures to be placed in the international

outreach countries and supported national associations. It is managed by the

International Outreach Committee.

5. Scripture Distribution Fund – 4%

Gideons should especially be aware of this allocation, which is used to offset the cost of

freight, customs, importation duty, order processing, and other expenses. Since such

costs are part of the allocation, it is improper to say, “100% of your contribution is used

to purchase Scriptures.” Rather, it is more correct to say, “For an average cost of $1.20

you can provide for the purchase and placement of Scripture in 200 countries,

territories, and possessions.”

The Faith Fund is not part of the allocation from church presentations and the GideonCard

Bible Program. It is a separate program that promotes contributions provided almost exclusively

by Gideons and Auxiliary to provide Scriptures for the International Outreach Ministry. The

50% allocation described above is insufficient to provide all the Scripture needs budgeted by

these countries; therefore, there is almost always a deficit in the International Outreach Fund.

That deficit is made up by the Faith Fund, 100% of which is used for Scripture needs in

international outreach and supported national association countries.

DASHBOARD AND MONTHLY CAMP REPORT


International Headquarters publishes camp reports on the 3rd business day of the month for the

previous month’s transactions. A copy can be viewed on theConnection. Additionally, camps have

access to the same vital information contained in the Monthly Camp Report, for current month

data and is updated daily.

ESTATES AND PLANNED GIFTS

Often Gideons, Auxiliary, and non-member donors desire to make gifts to The Gideons

International that require careful planning in consideration of their overall financial stewardship

goals. The Development Division at International Headquarters exists to assist those individuals

to achieve the most beneficial method of accomplishing their goals, given their personal, family,

taxation, and estate situations. There are several ways in which an eternal investment can be

made through The Gideons International. Some of these are cash gifts, securities, life insurance,

a bequest through a will or trust, and retirement plans.

Those who wish to make special, planned gifts to The Gideons International are advised to

consult the Development Division at International Headquarters. The following information

may be helpful to attorneys and tax advisors:

The official corporate identification of the Association is The Gideons International, P. O. Box

140800, 50 Century Blvd., Nashville, Tennessee, 37214-0800. The Tax ID number of The

Gideons International is 36-2270051. Contributions to The Gideons International, designated

by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity, qualify as tax deductible, per allowance of the law.


KEY POLIC IES OF THE GIDEONS INTERNATIONAL

In an organization as large and complex as The Gideons International, there must be certain

policies that ensure uniform adherence to its core values and orderly execution of its purpose.

The International Cabinet over the years has established certain policies that are followed

throughout the worldwide ministry. Further, the International Cabinet is the only entity within

the Association that has the authority to establish these policies, and International Headquarters,

through the executive director serving as secretary to the International Cabinet, is charged with

enforcing their compliance. All members should be fully cognizant of the key policies of The

Gideons International and adhere to them in all their Gideon activity. Please refer to the Guide

Book (Item 102) for specifics on the following key policies of The Gideons International:

• Scripture Versions Policy

• Scripture Distribution Affiliation Policy

• Non-Qualified Churches

• Safekeeping of Records and Finances

• The Approved Gideon Emblem

• Use of Gideon Name and Emblem

• Meaning of the Emblem

• Electronic Communications

A. Social Media

B. Internet

C. Email

D. Blogs

E. Videos and Other Electronic Postings

F. Online Sharing of Gideon Content

• Business Use of Gideon Information

• Publicity

• Public Relations

• Topics of Discussion


• Social, Political and Other Causes

• Policy on Human Sexuality

• Gideons Traveling Abroad

• Bequests, Trusts, and Other Special Gifts

• Approved Methods for Securing Funds

• Use of Published Music

• Policy on Attire

• Corporate Apparel

• Presentation of Awards

• Separate Meetings at International Conventions

• Parliamentary Procedure

• Policies Related to Conducting Specific Programs

.

camp management manual

Documents