Tall Oaks is a place where people come to rest beneath the trees, reconnect with one another, and experience the beauty of creation. Caring for this special place also means responding when the unexpected happens—and this year, we have faced two significant, unplanned expenses.

With the dynamic weather that has come through the Kansas City area this year, Tall Oaks has unfortunately lost 22 mature trees. Following one of these storms, we were able to rally a group of volunteers to lessen the burden on our staff, however some of the storms required immediate cleanup via professional contractors. Tall Oaks staff have also spent countless hours cleaning up and processing firewood for groups to use during their stays on campus. Removing these fallen or hazardous trees has cost Tall Oaks approximately $2,000 - $3,000 per tree, not including what we have been able to take of ourselves. While this work has been essential to keeping our grounds safe and welcoming for campers, retreat goers, volunteers, and guests, those individual expenses have added up quickly.

Our second unexpected need emerged during a project we were excited to undertake. Capital campaign funds allowed us to replace the roof on Koinonia Cabin – one of our most-used lodging spaces. Once the old roof was removed, however, significant structural damage was discovered underneath. Each repair revealed another area requiring attention, and we knew it was important to do the work thoroughly and correctly.

The good news is that Koinonia now has a sound roof, repaired structure, and a beautifully renovated main room. It is ready to welcome guests for many years to come. The complete project totaled approximately $27,000—an investment we are proud of, but one that was considerably larger than anticipated.

Tall Oaks continues to be a vibrant, beautiful place where lives are changed, communities are strengthened, and lasting memories are made. These expenses do not change that. They simply present us with an immediate opportunity to care for this ministry together.

Progress through Adversity

Tall Oaks Tree and Koinonia Support