Inspiration Ministries began as Christian League for the Handicapped. Its purpose was and is to be a place where people with disabilities can grow and mature in their faith and lead productive, joy-filled lives. The following is a brief timeline of God’s leading, guiding and providing for the life and growth of a vital ministry to adults with disabilities.
1944 – Pastor Charlie Pedersen meets a physically disabled man with great faith, and the dream is born.
1948 – The ministry is incorporated as the Christian League for the Handicapped.
1950 – Camp Hope, a summer camp, opens in ministry Lake Geneva.
1954 – The first accessible and convenient home opens with three residents in the Village of Walworth.
1959 – The Christian League buys a farm that is the current site of Inspiration Ministries.
1962 – The Workshop opens, the first building, providing residents with work and the opportunity to be as self-supporting as possible.
1964 – The "occupational residence," another first of its kind, opens. Now known as the Pederson Center, it features two wings offering housing for up to 64 people. A family room with a television and fireplace and a dining room provide a homey feel and an atmosphere of love and acceptance.
1963 – Adjacent property owners offer their land as a site for a campground.
1965 – The gift shop, now the resale shop, opens.
1975 - Camp begins on our current site.
1984 – Charlie Pedersen retires, leaving a legacy of faith in action, motivated by the tender heart of love.
1997 – Camp greatly expands services to adults and youth with disabilities. Respite camps begin to serve families year around.
1998 – One wing of the original residence is remodeled to provide assisted-living care.
1999 – The Christian League for the Handicapped Board decides to do business as Inspiration Ministries.
2002 – DeKorte wing and Administration wing completed.
2006-2008 – Remodel completed on The Lodge and four cabins and the Nature Center built at Camp.