VOLUNTEERS
Whether it is being directly involved with a camper, serving on a team, or working behind the scenes, there is a job for you!
What is the time commitment for volunteering?
Weekend camp volunteer time is from 9:00 AM Friday until around 3:00 PM Sunday.
Day camp volunteer time is 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM on Saturday.
It is important to stay the full length of time when you commit to volunteering.
Do I need to have experience with autism/special needs? No. Prior to the campers' arrival, we provide a camp-related training. A team of people dedicated to help with communication, meltdowns, and other undesirable behaviors are always nearby. To be prepared as possible, extensive planning has been completed ahead of time to learn about our little campers' needs and behaviors. We want you comfortable in your role at camp!"
Does it cost for me to attend as a volunteer? No. The Kids & Dreams Foundation is charged per person on the camp grounds. We realize some may not be able to afford the cost, while others can cover their stay, plus help another volunteer. We welcome any amount toward facility costs. There is a place in the registration for donations.
Where will I sleep? Big campers either sleep in cabins with their little camper or in a nearby cabin (if opposite sex). For those who are not big campers, females stay in cabins with their female teammates. Since we are often short on male big campers, all other male volunteers stay in cabins with the big/little campers to assist at bedtime.
What if I have dietary restrictions/food sensitivities? We recognize there are a variety of health conditions that require food accommodations. When registering in CampDoc, there is a place to indicate dietary restrictions. We work with the camp staff to plan accordingly. We keep the menu simple and adaptable to meet those needs, as well as, kid friendly to satisfy most picky eaters. We are happy to answer questions and provide menus prior to camp if you have a specific concern.
Lead Big Campers: The lead big camper usually has experience working with autism/ special needs or has been to camp in the past and is comfortable in this role. (ages 16+)
2nd Big Campers: This person may have minimal to no experience. In addition to enjoying time with their little camper, they will assist the lead big camper as needed. (ages 13+)
Activities Team: Team members are responsible for helping set up/tear down games, activities, crafts, snacks, and wherever else they are needed during camp. (ages 13+)
Hospitality Team: This may be a behind the scenes team, but it is an important part of camp! Team members provide snacks, drinks, sanitizing, laundering, and whatever else is needed to make our campers and volunteers time at camp comfortable and ensure needs are being met. (ages 13+)
Nurses Team: This team of 2-3 LPN/RN/CMAs are at each camp for emergencies and to administer first aid and medications.
Photo Team: We provide a photo album for each camper at the end of camp. In addition to several photographers, behind-the-scenes members of the team are needed to keep the printers running and sort photos.
Videographers: 1-2 videographers take video of the activities of camp. Video editing experience is a bonus!