Sonny Adkins
Woodland Park,CO
Summary
Dynamic, mission-driven executive with over 25 years of progressive leadership experience in nonprofit and youth development organizations, including the YMCA and independent schools. Proven ability to lead large-scale programs, inspire high-performing teams, and drive organizational growth through strategic planning, financial management, and community partnerships. Combines entrepreneurial innovation with deep respect for tradition, mission, and values.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
Work History
Executive Director
YMCA OF THE PIKES PEAK REGION
01.2013 - Current
- Lead a thriving, year-round resident camp and conference center serving youth, families, and organizations across Colorado and beyond. Oversee all operations, strategic planning, staffing, budgeting, and community engagement for a mission-based branch of the YMCA of the Pikes Peak Region.
Key Achievements:
- Increased annual operating revenue from $700,000 to over $2 million, positioning Camp Shady Brook as a top regional destination for outdoor education and youth development.
- Expanded year-round programming, group usage, and community partnerships to achieve sustainable growth.
- Strengthened relationships with schools, nonprofits, and corporate clients to diversify revenue streams.
- Oversaw facilities improvements, safety protocols, and program innovation to enhance the camper and guest experience.
- Cultivated a mission-driven culture of accountability, leadership, and teamwork among staff and volunteers.
- Collaborated with association leadership and board members to align branch strategies with regional goals.
Owner/Principal
BLACK WING VENTURES, LTD.
01.2024 - Current
- Founder of a specialized service company providing maintenance, construction, and consulting for residential camps, and nonprofit organizations across Colorado. Focused on supporting mission-based organizations with high-quality facilities, and operational excellence.
Director, Woodcraft, Junior Woodcraft, Family Camps & Challenge Course
CULVER ACADEMIES
01.2006 - 01.2013
- Directed one of the largest single-session summer camps in the nation, with 1,400 campers and over 400 staff, on an 1,800-acre campus. Managed all aspects of operations, staffing, marketing, and budgeting, while supporting the school’s broader educational mission.
Key Achievements:
- Managed a $4M annual program budget, with consistent fiscal health and operational excellence.
- Strengthened engagement with alumni, parents, and board members to sustain the 100-year camp tradition.
- Integrated leadership and character education into both academic and camp programming.
- Supported the institution’s $300M capital campaign through program alignment, and donor engagement.
- Served as President of the ACA Indiana Council of Leaders, and was a member of the National Council of Leaders.
Education
Bachelor’s Degree - Business Management & Administration
Walden University
Baltimore, MDSkills
- Strategic leadership
- Financial management
- Staff recruitment and training
Key strengths
- Board relations management
- Program development and enhancement
- Fundraising campaign assistance
- Community engagement and corporate collaboration
Affiliations
- Appointed Member, National Standards Commission (NSC) – American Camp Association
- Board Member, Colorado Camps Network (CCN)
- President, American Camp Association – Indiana Council of Leaders
- Member, ACA National Council of Leaders
- Professional Vendor Member (PVM), Association for Challenge Course Technology
- Collaborator with multiple YMCA and community boards
Timeline
Owner/Principal
BLACK WING VENTURES, LTD.
01.2024 - Current
Executive Director
YMCA OF THE PIKES PEAK REGION
01.2013 - Current
Director, Woodcraft, Junior Woodcraft, Family Camps & Challenge Course
CULVER ACADEMIES
01.2006 - 01.2013
Bachelor’s Degree - Business Management & Administration
Walden University
COMMUNITY & PERSONAL
- Passionate advocate for youth development, leadership, and lifelong learning.
- Experienced mentor, facilitator, and public speaker.
- Committed to mission-driven work that strengthens communities through inclusion, character, and service.