Staff Information
To request a staff application, e-mail us.
What does a volunteer staff do?
Camp Rainbow Connection is a continuation of Christ’s ministry where campers and staff of all races and religions experience Christian love. Volunteers with Camp Rainbow Connection will: (1) demonstrate Christian love with compassion and acceptance toward campers, family members/care givers, and fellow volunteer staff; (2) provide opportunities for campers to experience fun, fellowship, and Christian teachings; and (3) work together as a team with persons with and without disabilities.
As a Camper Buddy and Activity Mentor, a volunteer will:
- Maintain the dignity of the campers with whom he/she is matched as a staff buddy (including the individual’s in-room privacy and property), the other campers participating in sessions, and fellow staff volunteers. Hold information confidential.
- Abide by the child/youth/vulnerable adult protection policies of the Virginia Conference of The United Methodist Church.
- Focus upon the needs of the campers as the highest priority during camp sessions.
- Be aware of where the camper under your supervision as a Buddy is and what they are doing at all times. You are expected to inform the camper of your whereabouts as well. As a Camper Buddy, you will be sharing a sleeping room with the camper(s) and possibly additional volunteers, assuring that medication/health needs are met, and assisting with activities of daily living as appropriate.
- Provide opportunities for participation by campers in all activities. As an Activity Mentor, you will be assisting with tasks in morning classes, afternoon activities, and evening sessions. You are expected to promote independence of the camper in all that is done, allowing the person to try tasks on his/her own, make mistakes, take longer than others, and persevere. You will always be called upon to assist with proper supervision of campers. During class activities, you will work in your class or activity and your camper will be supervised by those leading the activities in which he/she is involved.
- Be a full participant in all activities. Attendance is required at all sessions and events.
- Maintain Christian integrity and behavior at all times.
- Share any concerns or questions you have with the Camp Coordinator and On-Site Directors.
- Assist with solicitation of supply donations and financial contributions to help keep the cost of camp for the campers at as low a level as possible.
Qualifications and Time Required:
A staff volunteer must:
- Be willing to serve God and minister to others.
- Be 16 years of age by March 15 of the camp year.
- Attend one orientation session before serving at camp.
- Be committed to attending his/her chosen camp unless there is an emergency.
- Arrival at site on Saturday prior to start of camp to prepare for the arrival of campers.
- Commit to the full week of camp in June and/or July (Saturday – Friday).