When Camp Soaring Eagle’s founders knocked on Mark Morris’ door two years ago, he never considered turning them down. The Sedona, Ariz., camp for seriously ill children needed a general contractor who could provide a substantial discount on his services. “I couldn’t say no,” Morris says.
Camp Soaring Eagle’s contemporary architecture will complement and blend into Sedona, Ariz.’s famous red rocks.
Rendering: Dick & Fritsche Design Group
Besides saying yes, he also agreed to build the project at cost, giving up a profit of about $4.5 million. The free-of-charge camp opened its doors for an abbreviated inaugural session in June and will be completed by 2011. Its 125,000 square feet of built space will include cabins, a dining hall, and a medical center. Despite the slow economy, Morris also convinced vendors and subcontractors to donate building products and services: Kohler Co. is contributing plumbing fixtures, Sun Devil Fire Equipment is giving fire sprinklers, and Arizona Waste Water Service is lending its expertise.
Photo: Bob Coates Photography
Morris, who serves on the camp’s board of directors, has the perfect blend of experience for the project. He owns and runs The Phil W. Morris Co. (founded by his father), which has built both custom homes and such high-profile nonresidential projects as Enchantment Resort and the Sedona Medical Center. And his interest in children’s causes runs deep, judging from his past involvement with other nonprofits, including the Boys & Girls Clubs of Northern Arizona. Morris’ commitment to Camp Soaring Eagle is personal, not just professional. “I’m a believer in the cause,” he explains.
For more on the camp, visit www.campsoaringeagle.org.
The Phil W. Morris Co.
Sedona, Ariz.
http://philmorrisco.com
Type of business: Custom builder
Years in business: 42
Employees: 17
2008 volume: $5.8 million (residential only)
2008 starts: 3 (residential only)
