Youth Camp Staff Manual. Greater Pacific Northwest-USA Mission Center COMMUNITY OF CHRIST. Edition

Transcription

1 Edition 1 COMMUNITY OF CHRIST Greater Pacific Northwest-USA Mission Center Do not neglect the smallest among you, for even the least of these are treasures in God's sight. Receive the giftedness and energy of children and youth, listening to understand their questions and their wisdom. Respond to their need to be loved and nurtured as they grow. Doctrine & Covenants 161:4a Youth Camp Staff Manual

2 C O M M U N I T Y O F C H R I S T G R E A T E R P A C I F I C N O R T H W E S T - U S A M I S S I O N C E N T E R Youth Camp Staff Manual 2015 Community of Christ Greater Pacific Northwest-USA Mission Center

3 T A B L E O F C O N T E N T S Table of Contents INTRODUCTION... 5 Letter from the Director of Youth Camping... 5 GPNW Youth Camp Overview... 6 Lewis River Campground... 7 Remote Campground... 7 Samish Island Campground... 7 Caravan Youth Venture for Christ... 7 Spectacular (SPEC)... 8 International Youth Forum (IYF)... 8 Youth Camp Descriptions and Best Practices... 8 Elementary Camps... 8 Junior High Camps... 9 Senior High Camps... 9 Youth Camping Team PLANNING A YOUTH CAMP Camp Planning Timeline Summer...12 Fall...12 Winter...12 Spring...13 One Month Prior to Camp...13 Two Weeks Prior to Camp...13 Before Leaving for Camp...14 Before the Campers Arrive at Camp...14 During Camp...14 After Camp...14 Before Camp Selecting a Theme...15 Budgeting and Setting Camp Fees...15 Program Development...16 Year-End Report...16

4 T A B L E O F C O N T E N T S Mission Center Communications...17 Recruiting Campers...17 Recruiting Staff...18 Requesting a Graceland Representative...19 Camper Registration...19 Staff Registration...20 Assigning Mentors...20 Planning Meeting for Staff...20 Cabin Assignments...20 Work Assignments...20 Camp Materials...21 During Camp Staff Preparation...21 Welcoming Campers/Registration Line...22 Daily Staff Morning Devotions...23 Daily Staff Meetings...23 Discipline...23 After Camp Mission Center Reporting...23 Mission Center Surveys...24 Staying Connected With Campers...24 Thanking Your Staff...24 Staff Debriefing...24 STAFF ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Leadership Teams Camp Director...25 Assistant Camp Director...27 Business Manager...27 Camp Pastor...27 Additional Staff Roles Cabin Counselor...28 Camp Nurse...29 Lifeguards...30 POLICIES, GUIDELINES AND PROCEDURES Camp Preparation Youth Camp Themes...31 GPNW Camp Addresses...31 Music and Video Licensing...31 Off-Site Destination Travel Planning...32

5 T A B L E O F C O N T E N T S Minimum Camper Policy...32 Canceling a Youth Camp...32 Special Dietary Needs...33 What Not to Bring to Camp...33 Samish Youth Camps and Canada West Mission Center (CWMC)...33 Campers Worth of all Persons...34 Transportation of Campers To and From Camp...34 Campers Who Drive to Camp...34 Disciplining a Camper...34 Dismissal of a Camper during Camp...34 Suspension or Expulsion of a Camper from Future Participation in Youth Camps...35 Special Needs Campers...35 Campgrounds Damages...35 Emergency Services...36 Emergency Procedures...36 During Camp Baptisms at Youth Camp...36 Camp Director Leaving Campground during Camp...36 Campers Arriving Late or Leaving Early...36 Cell Phone Use during Camp...37 Contacting Parent(s)/Guardian(s) during Camp...37 Head Lice...37 Medications at Camp...39 Personal Items...39 Pranks...40 River Swimming...40 Visitors at Camp...40 Worships at Camp...40 Financial Budgeting and Finances...40 Setting Camp Fees...41 Camp Reimbursements...41 Reimbursement Deadlines...41 Advances...41 Paying for a Specialized Staff Role or Activity...42 Two-for-One Camper Discount...42

6 T A B L E O F C O N T E N T S Early Bird Discount...42 Financial Assistance...42 Camper Cancellations and Refunds...43 In-Kind Donations...43 Mandatory Reporting Mission Center Summer On-Call Support Calendar...43 If An Accusation of Abuse Occurs At Camp...44 Reporting Walk-Through...45 Reminders...46 Registration Centralized Registration...47 Eventbrite...47 Camper Registration Forms...47 Staff Registration Forms...47 Camp Staff Selecting a Camp Director...47 Mentoring a New Camp Director...48 Directing is a Privilege...48 Relationship between Camp Director and Staff...48 Camp Staff as Registered Youth Workers...49 Number of Staff...49 Required Age for Staffing Youth Camps...49 Recruiting Staff from Outside GPNW or Canada West Mission Centers...49 Privacy Code of Conduct for Staff...50 Dismissal of a Staff Member during Camp...50 Specialized Staff Certifications...50 Camp Nurse Requirements...50 ADDITIONAL RESOURCES GPNW Mission Center Staff Contact Information 2015 GPNW Youth Camp Team Contact Information 2015 GPNW Youth Camp Directors Contact Information GPNW Mission Center Mandatory Reporting Flow Chart Samish Island Campground Emergency Information Samish Island Campground Emergency Plan and Procedures Lewis River Campground Emergency and Safety Procedures Remote Campground Emergency Procedures 2015 GPNW Mission Center Camping Promotions 2015 Camp Registration Procedures Community of Christ Privacy Code of Conduct Christian Education Resources and Tips Administration, Blessing & Giving Baptism, Confirmation & Communion Sample Lice Letter to Parents

7 INTRODUCTION Chapter 1 Letter from the Director of Youth Camping Dear Youth Camp Staff Volunteer: T hank you so much for your willingness to take a leadership role at one of our youth camp experiences in the Greater Pacific Northwest-USA (GPNW) Mission Center. We designed this manual to give you an overview of our youth camp program. Inside, you will find chapters on planning, policies and procedures, roles and responsibilities, and much more that will help as you prepare to provide youth camp ministry. This information is helpful for all of our youth camp staff, whether you are the Camp Director, Camp Pastor, Camp Cook, Cabin Counselor or Teacher. Our camps have a rich heritage in the Northwest. The experiences that have taken place at our youth camps have transformed the lives of many campers and staff. Relationships have been formed that last a lifetime. We are very thankful for those that have come before us to help pave the way. From the Community of Christ Website ( The first Community of Christ youth camp was held in Nauvoo, Illinois, June 20-30, Its mission: to make a real contribution to the development of character and leadership; to live religion without continually emphasizing it. Representative campers between the ages of 14 and 18 were encouraged to come from jurisdictions around the church. The cost was $14 U.S. dollars, $1 per day for room and board. The girls stayed in the Nauvoo house, and the boys camped in tents along the shores of Mississippi River. Their basic schedule was actually quite similar to camps today: meals, worship, classes, swimming, special events, and campfire. The power of camping was expressed quite well by those who worked to bring together that first youth camp in In camp, as perhaps in no other place, our boys and girls may learn to give and take in order that as a group they may successfully live together. The value of out-of-door life can hardly be overestimated. Away from the everyday life to which they are accustomed, in the new surroundings with new interests, and in different company, most boys and girls are usually sensitive to the finer things in life. Under these conditions, a leader is able to get closer to the boys and girls than at almost any other time. A summer camp brims with realities. Artificialities just seem to drop away. Social barriers dissolve. Distinctions in dress, in financial status, and in personal importance cease to exist. There are real and satisfying experiences and sensations that soothe tired nerves and awaken new and unthought-ofinterests.

8 C H A P T E R 1 I N T R O D U C T I O N As you can see, what we currently strive to offer our youth is very much in alignment with what the first Community of Christ youth camp sought to offer. What we do today is happening because of the legacy given to us by those that served and/or attended youth camps before us. Our camping program must look towards the future, while being focused on the needs of the children and youth of today. We seek to offer sustainable youth camp experiences where we present and model the message of Jesus Christ in ways that are relevant to our children and youth. We recognize that many who are young turn away from faith because of harmful misrepresentation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Through our youth camps, we can provide a safe place where the youngest among us come to recognize the powerful truth that is resident in the healthy and just message of Jesus Christ. Youth can come to realize that Community of Christ is a faith community that is seeks to be a welcoming church for them and their peers. So let us take the wisdom and experience of the youth camp tradition and couple it with a transforming vision that continues to seek new ways to bring the experience to children and youth in the 21st century. Thank you for your willingness to volunteer at our youth camps. You are a blessing, and we could not do it without YOU! Special thanks to the Youth Camping Team representatives, Camp Directors, Karen Beckman, and other Mission Center leaders for their assistance and input into the creation of this manual. It is an ongoing working document that we will continue refine and add to as we continually strive to improve our camping program in the Northwest. Peace In! Sean Langdon, Director of Youth Camping Greater Pacific Northwest-USA Mission Center Community of Christ 2824 Miramonti Drive, Eugene OR slangdon@cofchrist-gpnw.org GPNW Youth Camp Overview The Greater Pacific Northwest-USA (GPNW) Mission Center offers a rich heritage of youth camp ministry. We design our youth camps to help children and youth feel accepted and welcomed in an environment where they come to know the love of God. They are a place where young disciples are formed and prepared to be sent to serve in the world, just as Jesus Christ served. Children and youth learn more about what it means to have a healthy relationship with self, others, God, and all of creation. Moreover, we do all of this while having a lot of fun! We offer 11 campground-based summer youth camp experiences for boys and girls who are in elementary school, junior high/middle school, and high school. We also 6

9 C H A P T E R 1 I N T R O D U C T I O N offer two traveling youth camp experiences: Caravan Youth Venture for Christ and Spectacular (SPEC)/International Youth Forum (IYF). We determine camper attendance eligibility by which grade they will enter in the fall of the school year following the camp. Lewis River Campground Lewis River Campground is located in Yacolt, Washington. Youth camps offered: Camp Zarahemla (Camp Z) 5 days/4 nights, for boys and girls entering grades 3-6 Junior High Boys Camp 6 days/5 nights, for junior high boys entering grades 7-9; takes place at Lake Hosmer in Central Oregon Junior High Girls Camp 6 days/5 nights, for junior high girls entering grades 7-9 Senior High Camp a blended camp experience with Remote Campground youth at Remote Campground. (See below.) Remote Campground Remote Campground is located in Myrtle Point, Oregon. Youth camps offered: Kids Camp 4 days/3 nights, for boys and girls entering grades 3-5 Junior High Camp 6 days/5 nights, for boys and girls entering grades 6-8* Senior High Camp 6 days/5 nights, for boys and girls entering grades 9- current year graduates * Boys and girls entering ninth grade may continue to participate in Junior High Camp at Remote Campground if they are not ready to move on to Senior High Camp. If they choose to do so, they cannot also attend Senior High Camp that year. Samish Island Campground Samish Island Campground is located in Bow, Washington. Youth camps offered: Camp Genesis 3 days/2 nights, for boys and girls entering grades 3 and 4 Camp Mungai 7 days/6 nights, for boys and girls entering grades 5 and 6 Camp Kluane 7 days/6 nights, for junior high girls entering grades 7-9 Camp Chimacum 7 days/6 nights, for junior high boys entering grades 7-9 Camp Kimtah 7 days/6 nights, for boys and girls entering grades 10-current year graduates Caravan Youth Venture for Christ Caravan is a traveling youth camp ministry that focuses on forming young disciples about fulfilling the Mission of Jesus Christ. This ministry is for those currently in grades Between the months of January and May, youth and staff gather for one weekend each month in huddles at various locations throughout the Mission Center. During these huddles, they practice a program based on that year s theme, get to know each other, and check-in on requirements to complete before the trip. Every summer, 7

10 C H A P T E R 1 I N T R O D U C T I O N Caravan embarks on a 9 day/8 night road trip, traveling to a different location each year. During the trip, they bring ministry to Community of Christ congregations through their program, build relationships, and provide mission ministry in the communities to which they travel. Every five years, Caravan plans a big trip opportunity for campers and staff. Spectacular (SPEC) SPEC is an 8 day/7 night traveling youth camp experience in Community of Christ for those in Canada and the United States. SPEC is held at Graceland University in Lamoni, Iowa. It features opportunities in worship, leadership, music, sports and arts. Boys and girls in grades and current year graduates are eligible to attend. Our campers and staff participate as part of the Northwest Delegation. On non-iyf years, they spend a few days in Independence, Missouri before SPEC, getting to know each other, practicing sports and quiz bowl, visiting the Community of Christ auditorium and temple, and engaging in other fun events. International Youth Forum (IYF) IYF takes place every four years at Community of Christ International Headquarters in Independence, Missouri, for the 4 days/3 nights prior to SPEC. Boys and girls in grades and current year graduates travel from around the world for this worship, small group, and fun experience. Our campers and staff participate as part of the Northwest Delegation. Youth Camp Descriptions and Best Practices Elementary Camps Elementary camps offer campers an introductory experience to learn more about their relationship with God, Jesus, and others. We teach basic Christian values of love, respect and kindness, as well as living in community with others. Additionally, elementary camps offer an opportunity for fun through nature, crafts, games, and team building. Best Practices for elementary camps: Model Jesus as Friend Remember that this is an introductory experience to the camping program, so some kids will have a harder time adjusting to being away from home Present basic ideas about being in relationship with God, Jesus, and others Teach values such as love, respect, and kindness to others Introduce the principles of Disciple s Generous Response Demonstrate that fun can be spiritual, and spiritual can be fun Celebrate God s gift of nature Teach them how to recognize and celebrate blessings Provide basic opportunities for learning how to give back Present an introduction to living in and exploring what it means to be a part of the community 8

11 C H A P T E R 1 I N T R O D U C T I O N Provide activities that are fun and educational Provide worship experiences that meet the needs of this age group Ensure that the camp experience is consistent with Community of Christ Identity, Message, Mission and Beliefs. Inclusion of the Enduring Principles and using scripture appropriately is especially important. Junior High Camps Junior high camps offer a rich experience of growing in relationship with God, Jesus, and others during a very important formational period of a child s life. At a time when kids start to question their understandings, our junior high camps provide a safe, loving place to address their questions and thoughts. We teach the Gospel of Jesus Christ in a way where the child learns about a loving God that does not judge, but offers grace. At junior high camps, they learn that a relationship with their Creator can fun as well as transformational. Best Practices for junior high camps: Model Jesus as Sojourner Be aware that there may be value in separating boys and girls whether it is different camps or separation for certain activities at the same camp Realize that this is an important formational age you have an opportunity to help shape their values and beliefs Affirm and teach the principles of Disciple s Generous Response Be sensitive to the fact that this age group has some deep thinkers be aware and respectful of that Offer a variety of fun and educational activities to help meet the different needs of the campers Offer basic spiritual practices for experiencing the presence of God Teach and model the Gospel of Jesus Christ Ensure that the camp experience is consistent with Community of Christ Identity, Message, Mission and Beliefs. Inclusion of the Enduring Principles and using scripture appropriately is especially important Create opportunities for creating, experiencing, and building a sense of community Help campers ask the right questions in life Provide opportunities to teach about Community of Christ Enduring Principles, Mission Initiatives, and Sacraments Model behavior that reflects the grace and love of God Help the kids understand the importance of self-worth, as well as recognizing the worth in others Provide worship experiences that meet the needs of this age group Senior High Camps Senior high camps continue to further the deepening of that connection with self, others, and God. We teach them to have an awareness and appreciation of the blessings they experience. Our senior high camps provide a safe place for them to 9

12 C H A P T E R 1 I N T R O D U C T I O N struggle with the complexities of life, while nurturing personal and communal growth. It is here where they learn to be real with themselves and others. There is a focus on Discipleship Formation by learning more fully about scripture, mission, and the nature of God. Best Practices for senior high camps: Model Jesus as Lifelong Advocate Provide an opportunity to deepen connection with self, others, community and church Facilitate an experience that deepens their connection with God through the teaching of theology, understanding of the Sacraments, and engaging in spiritual formation practices Model and teach the principles of Disciple s Generous Response Create opportunities for Discipleship Formation Teach what it means to be a Generous Disciple Provide leadership formation opportunities Provide worship experiences that meet the needs of this age group Prepare campers to enter adulthood with confidence, life skills, and faith that brings assurance that God is always with them Provide opportunities for fun Engage in missional outreach opportunities Allow the youth to experience nature in a way that creates appreciation and a sense of awe Help campers understand the importance of self-worth, as well as recognizing the worth in others Offer creative expression opportunities (e.g. crafts, activities, performing arts, etc.) Allow campers to be themselves and real with one another. This includes being accepting of differences. As campers tend to pull away from their masks, their differences will emerge. Campers and staff alike need to embrace acceptance. Ensure that the camp experience is consistent with Community of Christ Identity, Message, Mission and Beliefs. Inclusion of the Enduring Principles and using scripture appropriately is especially important Recognize that campers are more willing to be open about what is going on in their lives in a camp setting. Be prepared to respond appropriately. Youth Camping Team The GPNW Youth Camping Team oversees the youth camping program. This includes our 11 campground youth camps, as well as our two traveling camps (Caravan and SPEC/IYF). The main purpose of this team is to help the Director of Youth Camping create a vision for the future and to uphold policies and procedures. The Youth Camping Team may create sub-committees at times to work on specific camping program projects. The Youth Camping Team serves under the direction of the Director of Youth Camping. The Director of Youth 10

13 C H A P T E R 1 I N T R O D U C T I O N Camping selects the representatives in consultation with the Mission Center President, and the annual Mission Center Conference sustains the team. A representative serves an annual term and may be invited back to serve consecutive term(s). Youth Camping Team structure: Director of Youth Camping Lewis River Campground 3 representatives Remote Campground 3 representatives Samish Island Campground 3 representatives British Columbia 1 representative Ex-Officio GPNW Mission Center President and Financial Officer Youth Camping Team member requirements: Active in congregational life Community of Christ Registered Youth Worker (RYW) Must have been on youth camp staff for at least three years Must not be a current Camp Director Respected among camp leaders Youth Camping Team member job description: Offers ministry of vision to help sustain and grow the future of our youth camping program Helps create and uphold policies for the youth camping program Participates in Camping Team meetings, area meetings, and Camp Directors meetings Assists the Director of Youth Camping with recruiting Camp Directors for the area they represent Assists in making youth camping decisions for the campground area they represent Advocates Registered Youth Worker and risk management guidelines Assists in the planning for, and participates in, annual trainings 11

14 PLANNING A YOUTH CAMP Chapter 2 Camp Planning Timeline C amp planning for the following year should begin as the camp is ending. Here is a suggested timeline to aid Camp Directors in planning your youth camp experience. Find more information on each topic following the timeline: Summer Take inventory of camp materials after camp. Create a shopping list of the essentials that you will need for next year. Take an initial poll of the staff you would like to invite back to see who might be interested in serving again. Send a card to the campers of the current year s camp experience that includes an invitation to the camp they are eligible to attend the next year. a minimum of 10 photos from your camp experience to the Director of Youth Camping. We especially need photos that represent a variety of experiences at camp, as well as a variety of people represented in them. (Please note that we may not use all pictures submitted.) Fall By October 1, confirm your primary address (or the one you would like to use for camp related ). By October 1, confirm your primary phone number. (We will only publish a primary phone number, but it would be helpful if you would like to provide a secondary phone number for the Director of Youth Camping.) Begin to lift up your camp intentionally in prayer: prayer for direction, the overall experience, staff and campers. Begin to develop a theme and direction for your camp. Submit camp theme to Director of Youth Camping by December 31 for approval. Begin to recruit staff. Encourage current and future staff to attend workshops and training sessions provided throughout the year. Winter By December 31, submit your camp theme to the Director of Youth Camping. By January 20, submit a brief (three sentences) description of the youth camp. By January 20, submit any special item(s) the camper needs to bring to camp (i.e. white t-shirt for tie-dye, etc.). Create the budget for your camp. 12

15 C H A P T E R 2 PLA N N I N G A Y O U T H C A M P Receive and review the Year-End Report. How will the survey results, financial report, and other information help inform your planning? Create and send a Save the Date postcard to eligible campers for your camp. High school camps should also start utilizing social media (Facebook, Twitter, etc.). Continue to recruit any staff roles left to fill. Create the schedule for the camp. Begin to think about and plan for the special events that might happen at your camp Have a planning session with the Camp Pastor. If applicable, invite any other members of your camp s leadership team as well. This helps get the leaders of your camp all on the same page as you move forward with planning. If desired, request a representative from Graceland University for your camp using the online request form. Spring Create and send a flyer or brochure for your camp with camp specifics and registration information, along with a letter of invitation to all eligible campers. Set up a meeting with your camp staff for group planning and become acquainted with the direction of the camp. Also, use this time to review Registered Youth Worker policies that are pertinent to your camp experience. Hold meetings in person, via teleconference, or by using Skype or other Web conferencing program. Ask and notify your staff of any specific activities you would like them to lead or assist with at camp. Notify the Director of Youth Camping of any assistance you need in recruiting those final staff members. Communicate special meal requests to the Camp Cook(s). This could include meal plans for any special events happening at camp. One Month Prior to Camp Early Bird registration closes: remind any campers that plan to attend of the need to register. Begin to finalize plans for camp. Ask your staff for any dietary concerns of which the Camp Cook needs to be aware. Two Weeks Prior to Camp Registration closes: any additional campers can only register at your discretion. Send an welcome letter to parent(s)/legal guardian(s). Call to share the information or mail the letter to families who do not have . Check-in with staff to make sure they are prepared. Assign campers to cabin groups. Create and assign work assignments. 13

16 C H A P T E R 2 PLA N N I N G A Y O U T H C A M P staff a copy of the staff registration form and ask them to bring it completed to camp. Notify the Camp Cook of any special dietary needs or restrictions for campers and staff. Notify the Director of Youth Camping if your camp plans to leave the grounds for an outing. a list of your staff and their addresses to the Director of Youth Camping and the Mission Center Financial Assistant. Before Leaving for Camp Make sure you have physical copies of all the registration forms for your Camp Nurse. You may want a copy for yourself as well. Print off copies of the schedule for your staff and to post around the campground and in the cabins. Contact the Mission Center Financial Assistant for any missing registration forms so she can them to you. Relax, breathe, and center yourself. It is going to be a GREAT camp experience! Before the Campers Arrive at Camp Have a worship service with your staff to help center and support them before camp. Have a staff meeting to review the camper list and address any of their concerns so the staff is confidentially aware. Have the staff settle in their cabins before the campers arrive. Get the registration line set up. Prepare the campground for camp. Check campground for damages that occurred before camp. During Camp Collect receipts and prepare the reimbursement forms for you and your staff. Provide visionary leadership that embodies the worth of all campers and staff. After Camp Have a post-camp meeting on the last day of camp before the staff departs or within a month after camp. This can happen in person, teleconference, or Web conference. Mail or any original registration forms collected at camp to the Mission Center Financial Assistant. (Forms from campers who did not mail their registration form prior to camp.) After this, shred your copies of camper and staff registration forms and delete the registration forms from your computer. Ensure that all reports are complete and forms turned in to the appropriate Mission Center leaders. 14

17 C H A P T E R 2 PLA N N I N G A Y O U T H C A M P Mail or a copy of your camp log to the Director of Youth Camping and Mission Center Financial Assistant. Submit photos from your camp to the Director of Youth Camping. These will be used in future promotional materials. Make sure that none of the photos you include shows a child whose parent(s)/guardian(s) did not sign the Photo Release on the registration form. If you choose to do a personalized camper and/or staff survey for your camp, then please provide the Director of Youth Camping with a copy of it. This helps the Mission Center receive a larger picture of your camp experience. Complete the online Mission Center Camp Director Survey. The Mission Center will you a link to take the survey. Your staff and the parent(s)/ guardian(s) of the campers will receive one, as well. Begin to prepare for next year s camp. Before Camp Selecting a Theme Choose a camp theme that reflects your vision for the camp experience. The theme should also reflect Community of Christ Identity, Message, Mission, and Beliefs. The theme offers guidance for you, your staff, and the campers for the week. Choose a theme that exemplifies the focus needed by the youth for which you are planning. Try to choose a theme that is welcoming and inviting. Submit your youth camp theme to the Director of Youth Camping by December 31, for review before communication to a larger audience. Choose daily themes that help guide everyone through the camp experience during your time together at camp. The daily theme should reflect or be connected to the camp theme. Daily themes are important to help bring focus to the different components of the camp theme. It is also helpful to choose daily scriptures that reflect the theme. This helps bring focus for that day. Refer to Budget and Financing and Setting Camp Fees for further information on these topics. Budgeting and Setting Camp Fees For disciples, budgeting is an important part of stewardship, and therefore is integral to the planning process for camps. Create a budget for your camp based on income and expenses from the previous year, as well as any new or different expenses anticipated for the current year. Make sure to look at whether your camp s net income was positive, negative, or broke even the previous year, so you can adjust as necessary to create a sustainable budget with positive net income. You should not create a camp budget that results in negative net income. To ensure this, you may need to consider whether the camp is overstaffed or has too many expenses planned. To assist you in the budgeting process, a budget form is available from the Director of Youth Camping. The Director of Youth Camping works with the Mission Center Financial Officer to determine the camp fees. They look at trends for your camp, financial information from previous years, and whether fees have been raised at the host campground. 15

18 C H A P T E R 2 PLA N N I N G A Y O U T H C A M P Program Development Begin early in developing your camp experience. What do you envision as the flow of the week? How will your camp events reflect the theme you chose for the experience? Do you have adequate opportunities for worship, discussion, learning, and play? What special events or activities will your camp have that make it unique and stand out? Consider the heritage of the camp. What are the traditions? Are those traditions still relevant today? Are they something the campers will look forward to and would miss not doing? Are they appropriate for today s culture? Do they uphold the worth of all the campers? Sample schedules can be found in Chapter 5. Plan a schedule that reflects the needs of the age group the camp serves. For example, an elementary camp would have an earlier daily start time than a high school camp because younger kids tend to get up early, while high school youth are used to sleeping in during the summer. Additionally, a younger age camp may require more activities that help them burn energy. Be sure that your camp has a focus on living out the Message and Mission of Jesus Christ. Consider the ways that your campers and staff can have opportunities where they can engage in tangible mission-focused opportunities. It is important that our youth learn at a young age what it means to live for all in community, and not just what serves the best interest of self. Remember that one of the things that matters most to the campers is relationships. Consider how you can plan a camp that helps foster the creating and/or sustaining of healthy relationships among them. They will be creating friendships that will last a lifetime. As you develop your camp program, consider who should be on staff that would help live out the vision you have for that camp experience. Year-End Report Every winter, the Director of Youth Camping will create and you a Year-End Report. This report will include the following information: Current and recent financial data for your camp Camp Director, staff, and parent/guardian survey results Goals/feedback from the Director of Youth Camping for this year s camp experience Mission Center-wide survey data Upcoming events and announcements that are pertinent to your role as Camp Director Please review the Year-End Report. A Camp Director originally requested its creation, and it should be a helpful tool for you. Consider how the survey results, financial report, and other information will help inform your camp planning. 16

19 C H A P T E R 2 PLA N N I N G A Y O U T H C A M P Refer to the handout in Chapter 5 for more information on Mission Center Communications. Mission Center Communications The Mission Center offers communications for our youth camps via Mission Centerwide Save the Date postcards, posters and camping booklets. We also communicate via the weekly NewsBrief and the printed Chinook newsletter. Additionally, we provide a campground-specific flyer that you can use as a recruitment tool to advertise camps in the local communities near your campground. To help with accurate communications, be sure to turn in all requested information to the Director of Youth Camping on time. (See the Camp Planning Timeline and s from the Director of Youth Camping for due dates.) Recruiting Campers In addition to the promotions that the Mission Center provides, it is important that you work to recruit campers. This would be a good role to assign to one of your staff members if you do not have the time or passion for this aspect of camp planning. Save the Date Postcard or Letter The winter prior to camp, send a post card or letter with the initial Save the Date information. The Director of Youth Camping will you eligible camper lists. Limit information to important particulars only. If possible, include pictures from camp the previous year. materials to the Director of Youth Camping for review before distribution. If for high school camp (maybe junior high), create an event on Facebook to help get the word out. This is an easy tool for youth to invite friends to come to camp. You might consider other social media tools as well, such as Twitter, Instagram, Vine and more. See Chapter Chapter 5 for example letters. Communication with Potential Campers and/or Parent(s)/Guardian(s) Send out in spring, with plenty of time for the camper to make arrangements and register, but not so early that it slips off their radar. Include the following: camp specifics; what to bring; what to expect; Eventbrite registration link; registration form (or link to find it); Camp Director contact information; and the Two-for-One discount information. materials to the Director of Youth Camping for review before distribution. Welcome Letter to Camper a letter to campers with last-minute reminders about what to bring, what not to bring, beginning and ending times, where the camp is located, camp policies, etc. Ask them to let you know of any important medical information left off the registration form. Mail the letter to those without a working address. Be sure to materials to the Director of Youth Camping for review before distribution. Be Successful in Recruitment BE VISIBLE go to worship, Mission Center events, etc. Designate a communications staff member designate one of your camp staff to handle all the communications for your camp. Select an individual based on skill, not just someone filling the role. 17

20 C H A P T E R 2 PLA N N I N G A Y O U T H C A M P Get to know the potential campers and their parent(s)/guardian(s) go to congregational events, Mission Center events, etc. Use age-appropriate words/phrasing use appropriate language for the campers you are targeting. Know your audience! Reflect Community of Christ values and beliefs communications should use Community of Christ language, but not Community of Christ jargon, so all can easily understand the material. Target grandparents, aunts and uncles, etc. go to congregational worship, Mission Center events, etc. Communicate the Two-for-One Camper Discount promote this resource! And Don t Forget The church logo, stationery and more can be found at visual-identity. Use Community of Christ logo/branding you are putting on a Community of Christ camp. Community of Christ MUST be on your communications material. Recruit Non-Community of Christ Campers consider advertising to non-community of Christ groups and individuals. Our camps are cheaper than most organization s camps. Parent(s)/guardian(s) may appreciate being able to send their child to a Christian camp for a reasonable price. Submit for review all flyers/brochures, letters, postcards, etc. should be reviewed for content and clarity. to Director of Youth Camping for review before distribution. Recruiting Staff You are responsible for recruiting an adequate number of responsible volunteer staff. Consider the different staff roles needed. These include Business Manager, Camp Pastor, Camp Nurse, Camp Cook, Cabin Counselors, etc. Some guidelines for staff recruitment: Staff members MUST be Registered Youth Workers. Staff members MUST be at least three years older than the oldest camper (five years older STRONGLY preferred). Registered Youth Worker applicants must be associated with Community of Christ for at least six months. Staff members should share a testimony of Jesus Christ we offer Christian camp experiences. Staff members need to be people who follow Jesus Christ and can share a personal testimony of that relationship with the campers. Start early start recruiting during the previous camping season. Specifically target in late fall, when vacation dates are being set. Many people have to put in their vacation requests by the end of the calendar year. Be constant and consistent/follow up if someone says maybe, then follow-up as appropriate. 18

21 C H A P T E R 2 PLA N N I N G A Y O U T H C A M P Be creative who is not normally utilized at camps that would be a good fit? Think older generation, not just young or middle-aged adults. Talk to other Camp Directors throughout the Mission Center who can they suggest be on staff? Volunteer survey refer to the GPNW Volunteer Survey results for ideas. DO NOT SETTLE Start early to ensure that you are utilizing staff that make sense for your camp. Do not get to a point where you have to settle for a warm body to make sure you have adequate staff. Mentor new staff Assign a seasoned staff member to mentor new staff prior to and during camp. More information and the request form can be found online at /newsevents/campreunio n-registry.cfm. Requesting a Graceland Representative If you direct a senior high camp, you can request a Graceland representative to staff your camp. Graceland University pays for their travel, but the camp s budget would need to cover all camp fees related to them being on staff. You are also obligated to coordinate the Graceland representative s ground transportation to and from the airport. Graceland attempts to coordinate air travel that reflects the start and end time for camp, but representatives often have to arrive a little late and/or leave early in the morning the day that camps ends. It is rare, but also possible, that a Graceland representative would need to leave camp a day early to fly to their next camp. Graceland University cannot grant all requests. Contact the Director of Youth Camping to assist with this process or for more information. Camper Registration Campers register for camp online through Eventbrite or by printing a registration form from filling it out, and mailing it in to: Attn: (name of camp), Community of Christ, NE Hazel Dell Ave. #249, Vancouver WA The Early Bird registration deadline is four weeks prior to the first day of camp. A registration form and payment MUST be completed and turned in to the Mission Center by this date to qualify for the discount. A verbal confirmation of intention to register does not qualify for the Early Bird discount, even from parent(s)/guardian(s) who are staffing your youth camp. The regular registration deadline is two weeks prior to the first day of camp. Campers must turn in registration forms and payments by this date to ensure attendance at camp. After the registration date has passed, a camper may only register for a camp if approved by you, the Camp Director. Review registration forms as you get them. Look for medical needs that could affect the planned events at camp. Follow up with parent(s)/guardian(s), if needed. Also, look for food allergies of which to make the Camp Cooks aware. Shred all camper registration forms after camp, as they contain sensitive and confidential medical information. You must also delete all electronic versions of the registration forms from your computer. 19

22 C H A P T E R 2 PLA N N I N G A Y O U T H C A M P See the back pocket of the manual for a copy of the registration forms. Staff Registration All staff members should fill out a staff registration form and turn it into the Camp Director. Find registration forms online at Give a copy of the forms to the Camp Nurse, as they contain medical information. We recommend the Camp Director the staff registration form to staff prior to camp so they can bring it with them completed and ready to turn in. Shred all staff registration forms after camp, as they contain sensitive and confidential medical information. You must also delete all electronic versions of the registration forms from your computer. Assigning Mentors Assign all new staff members a mentor who is a seasoned staff member. This would be someone they can reach out to before or during camp when they have questions about their role at camp. Being a first-time Cabin Counselor can be overwhelming for a new volunteer. It is important that they know they have support. Assign all Junior Cabin Counselors ( CIT s Counselors in Training) a mentor who is a seasoned Junior Cabin Counselor or Cabin Counselor. You can sign up for a teleconference number at call.com. The service is free, but callers may incur longdistance charges. Planning Meeting for Staff Have a planning meeting for staff prior to your camp experience. A planning meeting allows you to share your vision for the camp experience, review the week s schedule, highlight specific activities or events at camp, and review Registered Youth Worker policies that would be pertinent to your youth camp experience. It also offers an opportunity for your staff to get to know each other briefly, express where they might like to be involved, and for you to suggest additional activities that meet their gifts and passions. Hold this meeting in person, via teleconference, or via Webconference (e.g. Skype). Cabin Assignments Form your cabin groups once the registration deadline has passed. Consider which campers should be together and which ones should not be in the same cabin. If someone is bringing a first-time friend, make sure both are in the same cabin. If that friend has come to more than one camp, then you may consider splitting them up in cabins but keeping them together for work assignments or other group activities. Consider which Cabin Counselors to assign to which campers. Some Cabin Counselors may work better with a certain population of the campers. It is important that our cabin groups be diverse, but that we create them in a way that meets their needs. Work Assignments This is one of the last things to do before camp. Check in with the campground Caretakers and Camp Cook to see what work assignments the campers will need to complete. Create diverse working groups that have a mix of boys and girls from 20

23 C H A P T E R 2 PLA N N I N G A Y O U T H C A M P Refer to the samples in Chapter 5, Additional Resources. different cabin groups. Assign Cabin Counselors to be work group leaders. You might also assign staff members to be work leaders as well. Camp Materials Things to pack: Toiletries Feminine products Towels Sleeping bags/blankets & sheets, pillow Sunscreen, bug spray Flashlight Camp supplies GPNW Youth Camp Staff Manual Create a camp binder with the following items: Hard copies of the registration forms Budget Cabin assignments Extra copies of forms (Reimbursement, Incident Report, and Registration) Work assignments Mission Center On-Call Support Contact Calendar Schedule for the week with themes and staff assignments Be sure you and your staff label personal items that you let others borrow. During Camp Staff Preparation The time that the staff has to be together at the campground before campers arrive is crucial to the camp experience. Some of our youth camps have a 24-hour block of time for the staff to prepare. Others youth camps only have a couple of hours together before campers arrive. Staff members use this time to settle in their cabin, run to town to get last minute purchases completed, and bond with other staff. This is an important time to make sure the campground is adequately prepared for the arrival of campers. If you find anything that is broken or out of place upon your arrival, make sure to let the Caretakers know immediately. You might consider how you can make the cabins more welcoming for the campers. Consider decorating them or adding personal touches so that they are more inviting. Post on the cabin door a list of the campers and staff that will be staying there during the camp. Be sure to hold a staff meeting prior to the arrival of campers. Review any last minute changes to the schedule or planned events, review the camper list, and share any concerns that a staff member may have about a camper. Additionally, share with staff 21

24 C H A P T E R 2 PLA N N I N G A Y O U T H C A M P any medical, behavior, or emotional concerns listed on the registration forms or that came directly from the parent(s)/guardian(s). If you did not previously review the Registered Youth Worker policies that are pertinent to the youth camp experience, do so during this time. Equally important as the staff meeting is a time for the staff to worship together. Have the Camp Pastor, or other staff member, plan a worship that welcomes them to the camp experience. It may be appropriate for the staff to experience the Sacrament of Communion together as you begin the camp. Stay calm and be flexible. Last minutes changes will often come up. It will be important to adapt quickly to these changes so they do not hinder the overall experience. Welcoming Campers/Registration Line It is important to greet and welcome campers and their parent(s)/legal guardian(s) to camp. Consider strategically placing staff near the parking area or other common areas. The camper should first come through the registration line with their parent(s)/ guardian(s). Example registration line: 1. Camp Director greets the family and reviews the contact information on the form. 2. Business Manager verifies that the camper paid in full or collects any outstanding balance. 3. Camp Nurse reviews medical information, collects all medications, and checks for lice. It is especially important to check for lice at kids camps. 4. Assistant Camp Director or other staff member collects anything that the campers should not have on them during the week and gives them a nametag. Seal anything taken from the campers in a zip-lock bag with their name on it and place in a secure location away from campers. Make sure the child knows that it will be secure. This person could also let them know in what cabin they are. 5. Direct the family to their cabin to drop off their belongings. Have Cabin Counselors near the cabins, ready to greet campers and show them where to go. Make sure you give instructions to the campers as to what to do next. 6. Encourage parent(s)/guardian(s) to say their good-byes during this time and then depart camp. It is important that parent(s)/guardian(s) do not linger on the first day of camp. An exception to this may be for elementary camps that have kids who are experiencing leaving their parent(s)/guardian(s) for the first time. Have a discussion with those parent(s)/guardian(s) of children with 22

25 C H A P T E R 2 PLA N N I N G A Y O U T H C A M P anxiety or homesickness to develop a strategy for making their attendance at camp successful. Daily Staff Morning Devotions It is important that there be a short devotional focused on your daily theme planned for your staff every morning. This helps the staff center themselves for the day. The Camp Pastor or other designated staff member can lead these. Some camps may choose to utilize one of their other staff members as a Camp Pastor. A Staff Pastor may also lead these devotions. Identify a staff member who can float around where the campers are during this time. Ensure that they are never in a location where they might be in a room or building with no other staff. Daily Staff Meetings It is important that your staff gather daily for a meeting. This can be in the morning just after or before the staff morning devotions or at another appropriate time during the day. Use this time to review the daily schedule, make pertinent announcements, and address any camper issues. This is also a good time for staff to share joys and concerns about the camp experience. Identify a staff member who could float around where the campers are during this time. Ensure that they are never in a location where they might be in a room or building with no other staff. Make sure that staff has someone identified to share the information from the meeting with them. Discipline We need to handle discipline at youth camps in a way that observes the worth of all. Discipline should bring unity to the body and allow safety for all campers and staff. Public shaming is not appropriate, and we do not allow corporal discipline at youth camps. See the procedures under the Policies, Guidelines, and Procedures for how you should handle sending a camper home, if needed. After Camp Mission Center Reporting Within a few days of camp ending, send the following information to the Mission Center Financial Assistant vie or mail: 1. Notification of new on-site registrations/payments 2. Registration forms received during registration at camp (remember to shred all additional copies of registration forms after camp, as they contain sensitive information) 3. Payments received during registration at camp 23

26 C H A P T E R 2 PLA N N I N G A Y O U T H C A M P 4. An updated copy of the spreadsheet that the Mission Center Financial Assistant s you prior to camp, with updated/completed camper information (address, phone, , grade, date of birth, congregation) 5. Staff information regarding how many days each staff member was at the campground Mission Center Surveys Following camp, the Director of Youth Camping will a Mission Center survey to Camp Directors, all camp staff, and the parent(s)/guardian(s) of campers. It is important that they complete these surveys in a timely manner so that we can capture the most accurate information. The Mission Center will use the information collected to help plan for the next camping season. It also helps the Youth Camping Team identify any long-term planning goals. Additionally, the survey results will help Camp Directors prepare for the following year s camp. The Mission Center will communicate the survey results to Camp Directors as they plan for the next year s camp experience. Staying Connected With Campers It is encouraged that each camper receive a card or note following camp - a simple reminder of the experience they had with blessings for the upcoming school year. This can also serve as a Save the Date opportunity for next year s camp. If the camper is moving on to a different camp next year, then include the name of that camp with those dates. Consider providing Cabin Counselors with labeled and stamped postcards for them to mail to their campers mid-year. For the current year s graduates, the note can be a blessing that God be with them as they move on to other life experiences. This is also a great opportunity to remind them that there is always a place for them within Community of Christ; you can use this as an opportunity to invite them to stay connected with Young Adult Ministries. The Camp Director, Camp Pastor, or their Cabin Counselor may send the card or note. Thanking Your Staff It is important that your staff know how much you appreciate them! It is a good practice of gratitude for you to send a thank-you card to each of your staff members within a couple of weeks of camp. Go to to set-up a free account for easy online surveys. Staff Debriefing It is good practice to have an opportunity for your camp staff to debrief from the camp experience. Gaining their insight and wisdom from the events of the week will help you plan more efficiently for the next year. There are a few suggestions for when this could happen: Morning staff meeting on the last day of camp Staff meeting immediately following camp In-person staff meeting within a month after camp Teleconference or Web meeting Online survey 24

27 STAFF ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Chapter 3 See Recruiting Staff in Chapter 2. Leadership Teams Compassionate & caring disciples respond to the call to staff our youth camps. It is important that we choose people who reflect a variety of gifts and demographics to staff our camps. It is encouraged that all Camp Directors create a Leadership Team of at least three people to assist in the planning of camp. It is especially important to include the Camp Pastor on the Leadership Team. An Assistant Camp Director or Business Manager would also be appropriate. There are a few reasons for why a Leadership Team is important for a successful camp. Those reasons are: Unity in Diversity: When we closely plan these sacred camp experiences with others, it allows for a variety of perspectives to be involved. We are able to see how campers and parent(s)/guardian(s) can interpret what we plan through the lenses of our peers in youth ministry. Using a small group of committed people to help plan the camp experience can also help ensure that activities are planned which help meet a wider variety of personality types. We recognize that a wide variety of campers comes to camp, and therefore it is appropriate to plan our camp experiences with a wider variety of people. Delegation: You can delegate many tasks to others. There is so much to do that it can seem overwhelming to complete all the tasks while also trying to create a quality camp experience. Having a Leadership Team to delegate tasks to can help the Camp Director be more efficient, while also being less stressed and more focused on the preparations for the camp experience. Avoid Burnout: Being a Camp Director is a lot of work. A Leadership Team helps create a support system. It is a great joy to direct youth camps. We want to make sure our Camp Directors continue to recognize that joy. The three primary camp staff roles are Camp Director, Camp Pastor, and Cabin Counselor. Following is a list of the qualifications and best practices for these roles. Camp Director Qualifications: Be a minimum of 21 years of age Have previous youth camp staff experience Be a member of the Greater Pacific Northwest-USA or Canada West Mission Centers 25

28 C H A P T E R 3 S T A F F R O L E S A N D R E S P O N S I B I L I T I E S Live in the same campground area that they are serving as Camp Director in, preferred Be active in a Community of Christ congregation Have a working address for communications with Mission Center, youth camp staff, and camper families. Be a Community of Christ Registered Youth Worker (or be willing to become one) Be familiar with Community of Christ beliefs (i.e. Enduring Principles, Scripture, etc.) Model behavior consistent with Community of Christ Identity, Message and Mission Have the ability to uphold the purpose of Community of Christ youth camps Have the appropriate energy, flexibility, and patience needed to work in a camp setting Demonstrate that he/she is an appropriate role model for children and youth Have the ability to listen and respond to camp leaders Understand the need to be a team player and work well with others Best Practices: Camp Directors are the primary supervisors at Community of Christ youth camps. They oversee all aspects of the camp they are directing. Being organized is vital to being successful. There are many deadlines and lots of planning involved with putting on a camp. They start a year in advance to begin the work of recruiting an appropriate number of staff, deciding on a theme that is supportive of Community of Christ beliefs, creating a program that connects the theme with the focus of camp, and helping to recruit campers creatively to come to camp. They create goals for the camp. Camp Directors effectively communicate those goals to the staff, as well as all other expectations they have. Camp Directors act as servant ministers at camp by responding to a variety of tasks and concerns. They also know how to delegate roles and responsibilities to others. When recruiting staff, they invite people that represent a diversity of different gifts, skills, and ages. They recruit staff to help with roles that may become too overwhelming for them to complete. This may include an Assistant Camp Director, Business Manager, or Camper Recruitment Coordinator. Camp Directors follow all Risk Management and Youth Worker guidelines to ensure a healthy, safe camp experience for all. This includes the immediate follow-through of GPNW Community of Christ Mandatory Reporting guidelines. They also must ensure that all staff is following the appropriate rules and regulations. This includes planning for a pre-camp staff meeting to review those rules and regulations, as well as engaging the staff in the planning process so they are well prepared for the camp experience. A Camp Director must demonstrate maturity, which includes the ability to take constructive criticism and discern the appropriate response. Camp Directors must act professionally to uphold the dignity of self, as well as the camp, Mission Center, and Community of Christ. 26

29 C H A P T E R 3 S T A F F R O L E S A N D R E S P O N S I B I L I T I E S Assistant Camp Director A Camp Director may choose to recruit an appropriate person to be their Assistant Camp Director. If a Camp Director chooses to find an assistant, then it is important that they consider the qualifications and best practices that the Mission Center seeks in a Camp Director. Business Manager It is important that all camps have a Business Manager. More than likely, this person would also be the Assistant Camp Director or one of your Cabin Counselors. We recommend that the Camp Director not be the Business Manager, but it is okay if that is what the Camp Director prefers. The Business Manager would be in charge of collecting registration payments made at camp, processing any reimbursement requests, etc. They may also take on other roles as agreed upon between the Camp Director and Business Manager. They would be responsible to communicate proper reporting with the Mission Center before, during, and after camp. Camp Pastor Qualifications: Be a priesthood member, preferred Be a Community of Christ Registered Youth Worker (or be willing to become one) Be familiar with Community of Christ beliefs (i.e., Enduring Principles, Scripture, etc.) Model behavior consistent with Community of Christ Identity, Message and Mission Have the ability to uphold the purpose of Community of Christ youth camps Have the appropriate energy, flexibility, and patience needed to work in a camp setting Demonstrate that he/she is an appropriate role model for children and youth Have the ability to listen and respond to camp leaders Understand the need to be a team player and work well with others Best Practices: The Camp Pastor s primary role at camp is to offer a ministry of presence. They help set the tone for the camp as a spiritual experience to encounter God while in community with one another. Do not overburden Camp Pastors with too many responsibilities. They should be available to listen and talk with the campers, as well as help the Camp Director in handling difficult situations that arise at camp. They are a resource to the Camp Director for ideas, guidance, direction, and wisdom. They offer insight to the Camp Director and staff as it relates to the spiritual health of camp, before, during, and after the experience together. The Camp Pastor observes and responds to the emotional and spiritual needs of both the campers and other staff. 27

30 C H A P T E R 3 S T A F F R O L E S A N D R E S P O N S I B I L I T I E S Prior to the camp, they should intentionally uplift the camp experience in prayer. They act as a sideline coach and offer counsel to campers, when appropriate. It is important for the Camp Pastor to be familiar with Community of Christ beliefs, scripture, etc., and incorporate that into the life of the camp. Use Community of Christ scripture appropriately as a way to reflect the nature of God and teachings of Christ, while lifting up the importance of living in community with others. The Camp Pastor may lead the theme class or other appropriate class. They also coordinate the worships and work together with staff and campers, when appropriate, to plan those experiences. They may also assist with evening devotions, assist with end of the day theme thoughts at campfire, and coordinate spiritual development opportunities. Additional Staff Roles Many other important roles are vital to the camp experience. Some of these roles are necessary for you to have camp. Other roles are optional based on the needs of your camp experience. You will need to recruit staff that reflects what your budget can handle. It is important that you do not staff your camps with more people than what your budget justifies. Remember that all youth camp staff needs to be Registered Youth Workers with Community of Christ. Cabin Counselor Qualifications: Be five years older than the oldest camper, preferred; three years older than the oldest camper, required Have a connection with Community of Christ (e.g., friend, seeker, member) Be a Community of Christ Registered Youth Worker (or be willing to become one) Be familiar with Community of Christ beliefs (i.e., Enduring Principles, Scripture, etc.) Model behavior consistent with Community of Christ Identity, Message and Mission Have the ability to uphold the purpose of Community of Christ youth camps Have the appropriate energy, flexibility, and patience needed to work in a camp setting Demonstrate that he/she is an appropriate role model for children and youth Have the ability to listen and respond to camp leaders Understand the need to be a team player and work well with others Best Practices: Cabin Counselors are often the primary relational contact with the campers at any given youth camp. The main purpose of a Cabin Counselor is to have a supervisory role with campers. Cabin Counselors help supervise the health, safety, and well-being of the campers, while also demonstrating a compassionate and fun demeanor. They (co-) lead cabin groups, lead work groups after meals, and ensure that the kids are 28

31 C H A P T E R 3 S T A F F R O L E S A N D R E S P O N S I B I L I T I E S where they need to be at all times. Cabin Counselors also actively participate in the life of the camp. They attend the classes with the youth and may even lead some of them. They follow and understand the Youth Worker guidelines, which may include following Mandatory Reporting procedures. Cabin Counselors are volunteers, but must act in a professional way so that the campers, parent(s)/guardian(s), and fellow staff respect them. This also means that they must be dependable and follow through with commitments. This would include setting aside connections to home life, unless necessary in order to be fully present at camp. This means refraining from the personal use of electronic communications (e.g., cell phone, computer, etc.). Cabin Counselors are also there to provide a supportive relationship with the campers. They should have a love for working with children and youth. It is important that they use their gifts and skills to help encourage and develop the campers in their relationship with God. This may require that Cabin Counselors stretch themselves at times to be able to respond to the needs of the campers. Cabin Counselors should use humor appropriately and in a way that makes the campers feel comfortable and at ease. They join other staff in the commitment to embrace all the diversity that is present in the campers at camp. Camp Nurse All campground youth camps and Caravan are required to have a Camp Nurse on staff. We also recommend SPEC Northwest Delegation have a Camp Nurse on staff. A Camp Nurse is highly recommended, but not required, for Caravan huddles or youth weekend retreats. From the World Church Website: All camps and reunions, excluding retreats, must have at least one of the following on duty at all times, in order of preference: Licensed Medical Doctor (who is willing to provide his or her own insurance) Physician's Assistant Nurse Practitioner Registered Nurse (RN) Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), with first aid training Paramedic Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) All licenses must be current. Medical staff at camps and reunions must be licensed in the state where the campground is located and in each state where activities are to take place. Medical professional requirements differ among government jurisdictions. It is the responsibility of the campground boards and Camp Directors to understand and follow all local and state requirements. 29

32 C H A P T E R 3 S T A F F R O L E S A N D R E S P O N S I B I L I T I E S Lifeguards Enough certified Lifeguards to ensure safety must guard all water-related activities. There should not be unguarded areas during water activities. A Lifeguard must show proof of certification before their first time on duty through one of the following: American Red Cross Lifeguard Training or Advanced Lifesaving YMCA Lifeguard Lifeguard BSA The National Lifeguard Service s registered Lifeguard certificate (Canada) The Royal Life Saving Society s Canada Bronze Medallion and aquatic instructor s certificate Water Safety Instruction (WSI) certification Equivalent certification Lifeguards may come to camp for only the period of time that they are needed. They may also be a staff member serving in another role, such as a Cabin Counselor 30

33 POLICIES, GUIDELINES AND PROCEDURES Chapter 4 Camp Preparation Youth Camp Themes Camp Directors choose a theme that reflects their vision for that year s camp experience. The theme should reflect Community of Christ beliefs and values. The Camp Director should submit the youth camp theme to the Director of Youth Camping by December 31. The Director of Youth Camping the Director of Youth Camping needs to review all youth camp themes before communication to a larger audience. GPNW Camp Addresses All GPNW youth camps have their own forwarding address The Mission Center will use only these addresses as a contact option when advertising our youth camps. The Mission Center will not advertise personal accounts. This will help us remain consistent, ensure a professional and official appearance for our youth camps, and protect your personal addresses from spam. We encourage Camp Directors to use these s when doing your own communications for the camp you direct. Our youth camp addresses are forwarding addresses. This means that they forward all s sent to that the address to the Camp Director s personal account. There is no need to check for camp separately. Music and Video Licensing You may use recorded music and/or videos, printed music, or projected song lyrics at camps and other events if you obtain and display the appropriate licensing. The Mission Center has music licenses from CCLI (Christian Copyright Licensing International) and OneLicense for all Mission Center events. It is the responsibility of the Camp Director to ensure that the appropriate research is done prior to camp to determine if the songs that will be used are covered by our license and to cite them properly. That research can be done at: or The Mission Center also has video licenses from CVLI (Christian Video License International) for the three Mission Center campgrounds and for the Portland church. If your event is at one of those locations, you will need to do the necessary research to determine if our license covers your video. That research can be done at: If your event is not at one of those locations, you will need to make special arrangement for licensing. 31

34 C H A P T E R 4 P O L I C I E S, G U I D E L I N E S A N D P R O C E D U R E S If the licenses do not cover the songs or videos you are planning to use, you may seek permission directly from the publisher. If you do not receive permission, federal law prohibits the use of them at your event. You may not use copyrighted music or video at your event if you do not have a license. If you have questions about the licensing or research, please contact the Mission Center Music Specialist. If you are planning to use video games at your event, please contact the Mission Center Financial Officer directly and immediately. License Numbers for the GPNW Mission Center: CCLI: CVLI: OneLicense: A Place the following information on printed/copied or projected music/lyrics: Title of Song Words and Music by John Smith 1975 John Smith Music Co. CCLI or OneLicense # Off-Site Destination Travel Planning Notify the Director of Youth Camping before camp begins of any plans for travel offsite for activities. Notification must include date, location of destination, estimated departure and arrival times, a list of campers and staff departing camp, etc. The Camp Nurse would need to accompany the camp on the outing. Follow all guidelines pertaining to Youth Worker and Risk Management guidelines on the outing. All drivers must be at least 21 years old. All cars must be in good working order and have proof of insurance in them. Adhere to all local driving laws. Minimum Camper Policy All youth camps are required to have a minimum of 10 campers registered for camp by two weeks before camp. If a camp does not have the minimum required by two weeks before camp, then we will cancel the camp. This policy is negotiable only for those camps that have an off-site camp experience (not at a Community of Christ campground) or share a campground with another camp. Canceling a Youth Camp Mission Center leadership hopes that we never have to cancel a youth camp. There are reasons that this may happen, though. The reasons we may cancel a camp are: Doesn t meet the minimum camper policy Was not able to recruit enough staff Was not able to recruit required youth camp staff roles, including a Camp Nurse, Camp Cook, etc. Campground has an unexpected emergency and isn t able to host a camp for that week 32

35 C H A P T E R 4 P O L I C I E S, G U I D E L I N E S A N D P R O C E D U R E S We will make all efforts will to cancel the camp no later than two weeks prior to camp. We may make appropriate alternative options available. This may include the blending of two similar youth camps or having more than one camp at a time at the campground. Special Dietary Needs It is important to turn in any special dietary needs for campers and staff to the Camp Cook no later than two weeks prior to camp so they can plan accordingly. All Camp Cooks should do their best within the scope of what makes sense to meet dietary restrictions that are for medical reasons. What Not to Bring to Camp Campers and staff may not bring the following to camp: weapons of any kind, illegal drugs, tobacco, marijuana, alcohol, bad attitude, inappropriate reading material, foul language, large amounts of cash. If an item is brought to camp that shouldn t be there, the Camp Director will need to confiscate it for the week. If the item is dangerous to the health and well-being of the child or those around them, the Camp Director should contact the Mission Center leadership member assigned on the Mission Center Summer On-Call Support Calendar for what actions would be most appropriate to take next. We suggest that campers not bring the following to camp: candy and gum, all electronic items such as ipods, cell phones, laptops, handheld gaming, etc. The Camp Director may choose to confiscate these items for the duration of camp and give them back to the camper at the end of camp. The youth camp, campground and Mission Center are not responsible for any items lost or stolen during the camp. Samish Youth Camps and Canada West Mission Center (CWMC) Since many of the campers at Samish Island Campground are from Canada, we have an agreement with Canada West Mission Center leadership that by the two Mission Centers share gains/losses at youth camps at Samish Island based on the number of participants from each. Because of this, the Camp Director of each of the Samish Island youth camps will need to track the number of campers from Canada. The current version of the spreadsheet at Samish Island has provision for this information. Members and friends of the GPNW Mission Center and the Canada West Mission Center attend and staff the youth camps at Samish Island Campground. Direct any questions regarding campers and staff from the Canada West Mission Center to the GPNW Mission Center Director of Youth Camping or the British Columbia Representative on the GPNW Youth Camping Team. All campers from Canada West Mission Center must use the GPNW youth camp registration form, found on the GPNW Mission Center Website. 33

36 C H A P T E R 4 P O L I C I E S, G U I D E L I N E S A N D P R O C E D U R E S Campers Worth of all Persons All are welcome at our Youth Camps. There is to be no discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, political affiliations, religious beliefs, race, national origin, disability, and gender. The teachings at our youth camps must reflect Community of Christ Identity, Mission, Message, and Beliefs, as well as Policies and Statements. Though staff members may disagree with the church on certain beliefs or statements, they must still teach the principles aligned with Community of Christ. We all must do our best to ensure that all are welcome and accepted at camp. Transportation of Campers To and From Camp Transportation to and from camp is provided by the parent(s)/guardian(s). If you send a child home for behavior or health concerns, it will be the responsibility of the parent(s)/guardian(s) to arrange transportation from the campground in a timely, efficient manner. Campers should arrive and depart camp according to published times. We typically do not allow late arrival and early departure, as they are disruptive to the camp experience. If there are circumstances that make it impossible to meet this policy, the parent(s)/guardian(s) need to seek the Camp Director's approval in advance. Campers Who Drive to Camp It is common that senior high youth will drive themselves and their friends to camp. Once they arrive at camp, they must turn in their car keys to the Camp Director for the duration of camp. We do not allow the camper to drive their vehicle at all once they have arrived at the camp. When the final cabin cleanup and packing procedures of camp have begun, then the Camp Director may give the keys back to the driver. This policy is the same for any youth camp experience that happen in a congregation or other location. The Camp Director may let them into their car to retrieve an item during the camp, if they choose to, but it would be appropriate to send a staff member with them when doing so. Disciplining a Camper We need to handle discipline at youth camps in a way that observes the worth of all. Discipline should bring unity to the body and allow safety for all campers and staff. Public shaming is not appropriate, including disciplining all for the actions of a few. We do not allow corporal discipline at youth camps. Disciplining of a camper should be privately and relational. Help the child to understand why their actions were inappropriate and work together to come up with solutions for how to correct their actions. Use this as an opportunity to for them to learn from the situation. Be firm, but kind. Be compassionate, yet fair. Dismissal of a Camper during Camp It is the hope that we never have to send a camper home during a camp experience. We may send a camper home because of inappropriate behavior, use of drugs or alcohol at camp, sexual activity, disrespect shown towards staff or other campers on repeated occasions, or refusal to participate in the camp experience. The Camp 34

37 C H A P T E R 4 P O L I C I E S, G U I D E L I N E S A N D P R O C E D U R E S Director and appropriate leaders at the camp should work with the youth in an effort to allow for transformation so they can fully participate in the experience. This might include getting the parent(s)/guardian(s) involved. If this does not happen, notify the parent(s)/guardian(s) about the situation and the decision to dismiss the child from camp. If it is determined that a youth needs to be sent home, then it should be done in a way that is as healthy as possible, to keep communication open with the individual so further ministry can occur with them and their family. The parent(s)/guardian(s) are responsible for coming to the camp and picking up the child. If the camper (17 and under) drove themselves to camp, then contact the parent(s)/guardian(s) for approval before letting the camper leave. Once approval is given, then you may give the car keys to the camper. If approval is not given, then the parent(s)/guardian(s) will need to arrange for the camper to leave camp. If the camper is 18 or older, please give the parent(s)/guardian(s) a courtesy call to let them know that the child left, or will be leaving, in their own vehicle. Please notify the Mission Center leadership member on-call right away of the decision to dismiss a camper. You may also need their assistance if the parent(s)/guardian(s) refuse to pick up the child. If abuse were involved, then the appropriate Mandatory Reporting procedures would fall into place. Suspension or Expulsion of a Camper from Future Participation in Youth Camps The Director of Youth Camping makes the decision to suspend or expel future participation of a child from the camp experience, in consultation with the family, Camp Director, appropriate Mission Center staff, and the Youth Camping Team representatives for that campground. The Mission Center President would need to support this decision. A Camp Director should not tell a child or their family that we would not allow them at future camps until the Director of Youth Camping has communicated the decision. Special Needs Campers Parent(s)/guardian(s) of special needs campers must contact the Camp Director prior to registration to discuss arrangements for a possible attendant (who must be a Registered Youth Worker). Because we have volunteer staff, the camping program is not equipped to provide trained assistants. We want to be inclusive in our camping program, and we want to provide a safe and secure environment for our campers. Campgrounds Damages The camp budget pays for damages that take place at the campground during camp. Camp Directors need to inspect all buildings used for potential damages made prior to camp. Report any pre-camp damages to the campground Caretakers before camp 35

38 C H A P T E R 4 P O L I C I E S, G U I D E L I N E S A N D P R O C E D U R E S begins. If damages occur during camp, immediately report them to the Camp Director and then the Caretakers. Look at the specific information for each campground in Chapter 5. Emergency Services Be sure that phone numbers for emergency services at the facility your event is using are readily available and clearly posted. If not, please be sure that happens prior to the beginning of your event (the Caretakers can provide that info). Also, make sure you know where the phones are and have access to a cell phone (if cell service is available at your location). Additionally, be sure you know the address of the facility your event is using, in case of emergency. Emergency Procedures Please refer to the procedure documents in Chapter 5 for emergency procedures for each of our campgrounds. During Camp Baptisms at Youth Camp The invitation to become a disciple and experience baptism can be a powerful experience at a youth camp. Please consider what time would be best to have the baptism. We recommend that this be during the final worship at the close of camp so that family and friends can witness this experience. If it takes place during a camp, then it would be appropriate for the family to attend, but please remind them that we do have a No Visitors at Camp policy (see Visitors at Camp later in this chapter), and therefore they should leave shortly after the worship. Any youth or child 17 years of age or younger must have permission of the parent(s)/guardian(s) for a baptism to take place. Please remember that in Community of Christ, our ministers may only baptize an individual once in a lifetime. All World Church policies regarding the Sacrament of Baptism apply. Please contact the Director of Youth Camping with any clarifying questions. Camp Director Leaving Campground during Camp It is strongly preferred that the Camp Director not leave the campground while the camp is in progress. Please send another staff member to run any necessary errands. If it is necessary for the Camp Director to leave the campground during camp, then make sure to designate someone to be the Camp Director while you are gone and make sure all staff members know whom that person is. There needs to be a clear line of leadership in case something happens during the Camp Director s absence. Campers Arriving Late or Leaving Early Campers should arrive and depart camp according to the published times. If special circumstances prevent this from happening, then a camper may arrive up to 24 hours late or depart up to 24 hours in advance if approved by the Camp Director. A camper may leave early if requested by parent(s)/guardian(s) because of an emergency. Consider any other exceptions in consultation with the Director of Youth Camping. 36

39 C H A P T E R 4 P O L I C I E S, G U I D E L I N E S A N D P R O C E D U R E S Cell Phone Use during Camp It is up to the Camp Director to decide if campers can use cell phones during camp. Please remember that many campers do use their cell phones for their alarm clock and as a camera. Consider how you can best approach a cell phone policy for your camp that balances the need for campers to have them, with the hope to disconnect them from overusing them in a way that would distract from fully engaging in the camp experience. One possible suggestion for how to handle cell phone use at camps is to let them know they can t be used for anything other than picture taking during a scheduled activity at camp, and that if a camper is using their cell phone at an inappropriate time, it will be taken away for the rest of the day. If they are caught using it again during an inappropriate time, it will be taken away for the rest of the camp and given back at the close of camp. You may consider advising them that if the Camp Director sees that cell phone use is becoming an issue, they might change the policy without notice. Staff should use their cell phones sparingly while at camp. It is not appropriate for Camp Directors to ask staff to turn in their cell phones. Staff are encouraged to practice the same disconnect that we expect from our campers. Contacting Parent(s)/Guardian(s) during Camp Camp Directors are in charge of all communication between the camp and parent(s)/guardian(s). No staff member should contact parent(s)/guardian(s) directly during camp without approval from the Camp Director. The Camp Director may appoint someone to handle the necessary phone call. You might need to contact parent(s)/guardian(s) during camp if there is a medical issue, behavioral issue or other pertinent issue. Head Lice The Camp Nurse must do a lice check during registration for all campers of elementary-aged youth camps. It is extremely important that this is done. Cleaning up after a lice outbreak at camp can become very burdensome, stressful for staff, and frustrating for parent(s)/guardian(s). Lice checks for junior and senior high camps are up to the Camp Director s discretion. If you find lice on a camper during registration, the child will need to be sent home with parent(s)/guardian(s). If the camper undergoes the proper treatment procedures, they may come back after 24 hours has passed and with the permission of the Camp Director. Proper inspection of the child s scalp will need to happen before admittance back into the camp. If you find lice on a camper during camp, it is important to ensure that staff and other campers treat the camper well and they camper does not experience shame. The parent(s)/guardian(s) will need to be contacted and notified of the situation and that the child will need to be sent home for a minimum of 24 hours to ensure that treatment has taken place and been effective. Proper inspection of the child s 37

40 C H A P T E R 4 P O L I C I E S, G U I D E L I N E S A N D P R O C E D U R E S scalp will need to happen before admittance back into the camp. Treatment should not happen at the camp. The camp should also not pay for expensive treatment shampoos. Please refer to a sample letter to parent(s)/guardian (s) about lice in Chapter 5. The Camp Director and/or Camp Nurse should work with the campground Caretaker to ensure that campground-specific procedures involving lice are satisfied. Staff should seek guidance from the Camp Director and Camp Nurse in how to respond appropriately to the situation. No one should contact the parent(s)/guardian(s) of the other campers about the lice without approval from the Camp Director. This can cause unnecessary stress and frustration for staff and parent(s)/guardian(s). Send a letter about the incident home with the campers. Additionally, notify the Mission Center staff member that is on-call during your camp to let them know about the situation. Keep them updated, as necessary. What to Look For Use a comb or hands (with medical gloves on) to inspect the scalp of the child s head. Make sure that you are in a place with good lighting. Look for what appears to be very small bugs on the scalp (ranging from the size of a poppy seed to a sesame seed). Signs and Symptoms of Head Lice Camper is scratching their head more than usual. Camper has a tickling feeling of something moving in the hair. Camper has difficulty sleeping because of irritability on the scalp. (Head lice are most active in the dark.) Head lice are visible to the eye. What to Do if You Find Head Lice Wash all of the camper s dirty clothes, towels, and bedding in hot water (130 degrees) and then dry using the hot setting for at least 30 minutes. Things that cannot be washed should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks to allow the head lice to die. This includes coats, hats, scarves, stuffed animals, pillows, and comforters. Wash brushes, combs, barrettes and other hair holders thoroughly with hot (130-degree) soapy water. Disinfect the mattresses in the cabin and wipe around the beds. This is a good time to clean the cabin thoroughly. Given the likelihood of campers sharing belongings in the cabin or getting on each other s bunks, follow the same procedures for the belongings of all campers in the cabin. Conduct a lice check for the other campers and staff. For more information about how to respond to head lice for your campground area, refer to the following resources: 38

41 C H A P T E R 4 P O L I C I E S, G U I D E L I N E S A N D P R O C E D U R E S Samish Island Campground: pdf (Skagit Valley Health Department) Lewis River Campground: (Clark County Health Department) Remote Campground: %2022%2015.docx (Coos County Health Department) Medications at Camp During youth camps at our campgrounds and the Caravan trip, all camper medications MUST stay with the Camp Nurse in a secure location. The Camp Nurse will dispense medication to the campers at their scheduled times, as prescribed. Ensure that all necessary medication information is complete on the registration form prior to camp. Prescribed medications should be in the container dispensed by the pharmacy with the pharmacy instructions intact. For SPEC, prescribed medications stay with the camper, but the leader(s) and/or Camp Nurse must be aware of the medications a camper is taken. This is a World Church-sponsored camp, and the SPEC leaders determine the medical policies. Staff should keep their prescribed medication(s) in a secure location while camp is in session. It may be appropriate to keep them with the Camp Nurse to prevent the medication getting in to the hands of a camper or other staff member. Only the intended individual should take prescribed medication. Another staff or camper should never share or be given prescribed medication. The Camp Nurse should be aware of any over-the-counter medication taken by campers during the duration of camp. If parent(s)/guardian(s) send over-the-counter medication with the camper, they should list it on the registration form and bring it in the original manufacturer s container, labeled with the camper s name and specific instructions from parent(s)/guardian(s) for its use. The Camp Nurse should have basic over-the-counter medications available to use when necessary. EXCEPTION: Medications may stay with the camper during retreats and Caravan huddles. This is up to the discretion of the Camp Director and Camp Nurse. The Camp Nurse must still be aware of all medications. Personal Items The campground and Mission Center are not responsible for any lost or stolen items at camp. Youth are encouraged to leave personal electronics, money, etc. at home. The Camp Director may choose to take these items away at the beginning of the week and not return them until the end of camp. Staff should also secure their belongings during camp. 39

42 C H A P T E R 4 P O L I C I E S, G U I D E L I N E S A N D P R O C E D U R E S Pranks Pranks are discouraged from happening at our youth camps. Often times they do not uphold the worth of all persons. We want our youth camps to be a safe place for all staff and campers. River Swimming Anyone who swims in a river or moving water as part of a camp activity MUST wear a PFD (Personal Flotation Device). If the river or moving water is on the campground property, anyone who enters the water must wear a PFD. All other applicable swimming policies apply. Visitors at Camp We offer a closed camp experience. There are to be no visitors between the beginning and end of camp. This includes travel to off-site destinations. Visitors (e.g., family, friends, church members, etc.) cause disruption to the camp experience and create potential safety concerns. This includes youth who cannot attend the whole week but may want to drop in for part of the day. (Note: This does not include guest staff.) Worships at Camp Since we offer a Christian camp experience, it is important that each camp have daily worship experiences. These worship help bring an intentional opportunity for campers and staff to draw near to each other and God in a holy experience. Financial For sample copies of youth camp budgets, please see Chapter 5, Additional Resources. Budgeting and Finances Each Camp Director will create a sustainable budget that will break even. We recognize that there are occasionally circumstances beyond our control that adversely affect an event s finances, but we hope that the planning by the Camp Director will be sufficient to compensate for those factors. We will provide each Camp Director with financial data for the previous year s event. Since the Camp Director is responsible for the financial well-being of their event, it is important for the Camp Director or their designated Business Manager to deal with the process from the beginning. In some cases, there have been significant financial shortfalls that have occurred with camps, and the budgeting process can help in taking corrective actions to minimize those shortfalls in subsequent years. The budgeting process also helps in setting the fees for the coming season. Once the Camp Director creates a budget, they should notify their appropriate staff members of their individual budgets pertaining to the activities they are leading at camp. 40

43 C H A P T E R 4 P O L I C I E S, G U I D E L I N E S A N D P R O C E D U R E S Setting Camp Fees Youth camp fees for campgrounds are set by the Director of Youth Camping and Mission Center Financial Officer. The Director of Youth Camping will notify the Camp Director of their fee by January 31 for the upcoming season. Camp Directors can provide feedback to the Director of Youth Camping if they disagree with the amount that has been set. Camp fees for SPEC Northwest Delegation and Caravan are set by the event Directors but should be made in consultation with the Director of Youth Camping and Mission Center Financial Officer. Camp Reimbursements The most straightforward way to handle a reimbursement is as follows: 1. Pay for the item (craft, recreation, worship, etc.) out of pocket. 2. Submit the receipt to the Camp Director or Business Manager. The Expense Reimbursement Request-Event Form can be found on the GPNW Website. 3. The Camp Director or Business Manager should complete an Expense Reimbursement Request-Event form, staple the receipt to the form, and submit it to the Mission Center Financial Assistant or the Mission Center Financial Officer for reimbursement. If someone other than the Camp Director or Business Manager completes the form, they need to make sure the entire form has been completed, and the Camp Director or Business Manager will need to sign the forms to ensure that they are aware of what is being expended from their camp. Camp Directors should keep a copy of the completed Reimbursement Forms for future reference. It is also encouraged that they keep copies of the receipts. Reimbursement Deadlines Submit reimbursement forms to the Mission Center Financial Assistant during the week of camp. In no case should you submit them later than two weeks following the end of the event. For events not held at our campgrounds or not held during the regular camping season at Remote Campground, submit all income and expense reimbursement requests to the Mission Center Financial Officer. The final deadline for all event-related expense reimbursement requests is two weeks following the end of the event. Make any requests beyond that date directly to the Mission Center Financial Officer and will be considered on an individual basis. Please purchase all reimbursable items by the end of camp. Advances If a Camp Director or another staff member is not able to cover the cost of the items out of pocket until they can be reimbursed, please notify the Mission Center Financial Officer for an Advance Reconciliation Form. Return the completed form with the 41

44 C H A P T E R 4 P O L I C I E S, G U I D E L I N E S A N D P R O C E D U R E S receipts for all purchases made to the Mission Center Financial Officer at least three weeks in advance of the date you need the funds. Paying for a Specialized Staff Role or Activity Please contact the Director of Youth Camping and Mission Center Financial Officer if you want to pay for a specialized staff person to come to your camp. They will help assist you in determining if it is feasible within your camp s budget and guide you through the appropriate protocols of doing so. This might include a Camp Cook, Camp Nurse, Lifeguard or guest Teacher/Instructor. This is also true if you plan to make a rental transaction through a different organization for an activity. The fees associated with payments for a specialized staff member or special activity would need to come out of your sustainable camp budget. Two-for-One Camper Discount We offer a Two-for-One discount for all youth camps when a camper brings a friend who is new to our GPNW Community of Christ camping program. The registration form should have the friend's name clearly marked in the space provided, and the friend should submit a registration form. The Early Bird discount (see below) can apply if submitted by the Early Bird deadline. If a Two-for-One friend never comes to camp, then parent(s)/guardian(s) of the camper that was going to bring the friend must pay the camp fee balance during registration at camp. Early Bird Discount Each youth camp offers an "Early Bird" discounted registration fee when the camper registers and pays before the Early Bird deadline. The discount varies by length of camp. Please note that we will NOT give the reduced rate after the Early Bird deadline. The registration form and payment must be postmarked by the Early Bird deadline date. If a camper is bringing a Two-for-One friend that does not register before the Early Bird deadline, then we will charge the friend half of the camp fee increase. This reflects the Two-for-One discount. Financial Assistance We want to make sure every child and youth who wants to attend a youth camp has the chance to participate. Limited financial aid is available from the Mission Center. The Mission Center must be approve and confirm financial assistance before the Early Bird deadline to qualify for the reduced rate. Camp Directors asked by a participant or parent(s)/guardian(s) for financial assistance should do the following in this order: 1. Encourage the participant to register early if the Early Bird discount is available. 42

45 C H A P T E R 4 P O L I C I E S, G U I D E L I N E S A N D P R O C E D U R E S 2. Direct the participant/ parent(s)/guardian(s) to the participant s congregation, to determine if activity assistance funds are available locally. 3. Encourage the participant to invite a friend to camp to share the cost (only available for youth camps and youth retreats). You may need to help them with some of these steps. 4. Refer the participants to the financial aid form found in the Mission Center camping brochure or on the Mission Center Website if there is still a need for assistance and if the Camp Director has exhausted the above forms of assistance. There may be funds available from the Mission Center to offset the cost of camps and retreats directly. SPEC and Caravan have separate funds for addressing this issue. Please remember that these funds are very limited, so use them sparingly. Camper Cancellations and Refunds All campers need to notify the Camp Director of their need to cancel as soon as possible. The Mission Center will refund all but $25 of paid registration fees if cancellation is at least FIVE days prior to the start of camp. The Mission Center will make no cancellations after that. This includes those who leave camp early because of behavior, medical, or personal reasons. We do not offer any pro-rated camp fees for campers who cannot attend the entire week. This includes campers who may go home due to health, behavior issues, personal issues, family emergencies, etc. There are no exceptions to this policy. Camp Directors should never promise a reduced or pro-rated camp fee. In-Kind Donations Occasionally youth camp staff will choose not to ask for reimbursement for items they purchased for the camp. No staff member should ever feel pressured to do this. We encourage all staff to receive their appropriate reimbursement. If a staff member does choose not to ask for reimbursement, it is still important for the Mission Center to keep track of these expenses, particularly for future budgeting. Please make sure the Camp Director knows the value of all items donated to the camp. The Camp Director will need to report those numbers to the Mission Center Financial Assistant. Mandatory Reporting As a Registered Youth Worker, all camp staff members are Mandatory Reporters. This means all staff members are required to report the abuse of a child or vulnerable adult to the Camp Director. The Camp Director then reports through the church, which reports to the local authorities as necessary. Mission Center Summer On-Call Support Calendar We provide this calendar every summer so you know whom to call in case a situation arises at camp. You would want to utilize this if: 43

46 C H A P T E R 4 P O L I C I E S, G U I D E L I N E S A N D P R O C E D U R E S A Mandatory Reporting circumstance comes up. This could be something that happened at the camp or because of something shared at camp. A medical emergency comes up with a camper or staff member. The Mission Center leadership should be immediately aware of this in case parent(s)/guardian(s) contact them. Additionally, it helps them prepare in case any issues related to insurance, etc. come up. You send a camper or staff member home. Additionally, if you need guidance on whether to send a camper or staff member home or if parent(s)/guardian(s) refuse to pick up their child. The need for clarification of a Risk Management concern arises during the week. You have any other issues with which you need assistance. Remember, we are here to support you in your role as Camp Director. Throughout summer, the Mission Center President, Financial Officer and Director of Youth Camping are assigned to be on call for concerns that come up at our youth camps and reunions. We list up to all three names on any given day. Sometimes we do not list all because of vacations and other commitments where one might be out of cell phone range. We list the names in order of whom you should call first. The first name listed for any given day is whom you need to call first. That is your primary contact for that day. If you cannot reach that person, you call the second. If you cannot reach the second person, you call the third, if there is one. We list cell phone numbers at the top of the calendar. If they are at a campground for the week, we list the number for the campground next to their name on the calendar. There is one exception to this calendar usage. If the Mission Center President, Financial Officer or Director of Youth Camping attends your camp, they automatically become your primary contact/support person. This is whether they are there to staff the event or to attend. If An Accusation of Abuse Occurs At Camp Though it is rare, it is possible that the accusation of abuse can come from within a camp. The accused could be a fellow camper or a staff member. In that case, it is especially important to contact Mission Center leadership immediately to help offer support through this process. In most cases, the accused adult will need to leave camp immediately while the investigation occurs. Keeping the adult at the campground to wait for authorities can be disruptive for the child who has shared the allegation of abuse. If a child accuses another child of abuse, remove the accused child from the activity until Mission Center leadership gives direction. Make sure the accused child is not alone with one staff member during this time. When it comes to a child/youth abusing another child/youth, we are not talking about two children/youth getting into a 44

47 C H A P T E R 4 P O L I C I E S, G U I D E L I N E S A N D P R O C E D U R E S fight we are talking about a situation where one child has extreme dominance over the other and is using that to meet their personal needs. More than likely, the main issue would be connected to an allegation of sexual abuse. Please see Chapter 5, Additional Resources, for the GPNW Mandatory Reporting Flow Chart Reporting Walk-Through 1. A child/youth shares with a staff member at camp an incident of abuse. The categories of abuse are Psychological/Emotional, Neglect, Physical, and Sexual. 2. The staff member makes sure the child/youth knows that they are Mandatory Reporters and are required to share it with authorities who can help the situation. The staff member makes sure the child/youth receives the comfort required after sharing a story of abuse. They may be upset. Receiving the news that the information must be shared with authorities may also be upsetting to them. Be prepared for this. 3. The staff member then shares the incident with the Camp Director and fills out the Mandatory Reporting Incident Form. This form will help ensure communication of accurate information to those in leadership who will be acting upon the matter. 4. Once the form is completed, the Camp Director, or someone they designate, calls the Director of Youth Camping, Mission Center President or Mission Center Financial Officer to make the report, using the On-Call Support Calendar provided to them. If the first person that the Camp Director calls does not answer, then they call the next person on the calendar for that day. If none of them answers, then they call World Church Legal directly using the number on the flow chart and calendar. 5. Mission Center leadership contacts World Church Legal to assist in making the report. 6. World Church Legal makes the report to the local authorities. This allows the Camp Director, as well as the camp staff, to remain anonymous during the process and enables the Camp Director to bring adequate ministry to the child. 7. Once the report is made, Mission Center leadership confidentially notifies the Camp Pastor of the home congregation of the child so they are aware of what is going on and can bring adequate ministry to the child and family once returning home from camp. Additionally, Mission Center leadership confidentially contacts the Pastor of the congregation where the accused attends, if applicable. SAMISH ISLAND CAMPS: If the child/youth who shares the incident is from Canada, still follow the procedures on the Flow Chart. The GPNW Mission Center leadership will connect with Canada West leadership. 45

48 C H A P T E R 4 P O L I C I E S, G U I D E L I N E S A N D P R O C E D U R E S Reminders 1. This is a confidential process. Please make sure the incidents are NOT shared with others. Gossip can spread like wildfire in the church. 2. Follow the Flow Chart and act upon immediately. There is no time limit to complete the process. The time limit is ASAP! Mandatory Reporting is urgent; act on in a timely manner. A reasonable exception to this would be if something that needs to be reported were shared at a late night evening worship or in a cabin at night. Then report it first thing in the morning. 3. If you are a Mandatory Reporter for your profession and you feel confident in making the report yourself, you may choose to contact local authorities directly, though you must immediately also follow the Flow Chart procedures and contact Mission Center leadership. 4. Camp staff should respect the Camp Director s role in making the report. The Camp Director can designate someone else to make the report if responsibilities prevent him or her from making the report in a timely manner. The staff member who was told, the Assistant Camp Director or the Camp Pastor are logical choices. Just remember that the Camp Director is the one designated by the Mission Center to make sure the report happens. 5. The Flow Chart helps to assist all of us in making reports. Most Registered Youth Workers will never have to make a report. It can be an uneasy process to follow on our own with little to no experience in doing so. Even the most experienced are not always comfortable in handling allegations of abuse. Support is there to help ensure you are at peace through the process, but most important to uphold the needs and rights of the child/youth. 6. Never offer confidentiality to a child/youth when matters of abuse are involved. 7. Follow the same process when abuse of a vulnerable adult is shared. 8. Be calm and compassionate when handling Mandatory Reporting incidents at camp. Failure to do so can elevate the anxiety of all and cause the child to shut down. It can be especially alarming when the accusation comes from or towards a church member, especially one we know and care for. Be aware of your reaction. Please do not over-react. Stay calm. This is extremely important. 9. Mission Center leaders are here to support you! Please never forget that! 46

49 C H A P T E R 4 P O L I C I E S, G U I D E L I N E S A N D P R O C E D U R E S Registration Centralized Registration The registration process for GPNW youth camps is centralized. Send all registration forms and financial assistance forms for youth camps to the following mailing address: Attn: (name of camp/retreat) Community of Christ NE Hazel Dell Ave, #249 Vancouver WA The Mission Center will send images of the registration forms and the updated camper data spreadsheet to each Camp Director on a regular basis prior to the start of their camp. Eventbrite We use for the processing of online youth camp registrations. This online resource also allows us to accept payment for youth camps. We will the most recent spreadsheet of registrations received via Eventbrite to each Camp Director. This report will include all of the information normally contained on the paper registration form and should be treated as confidentially as is the paper registration form. Each camp address has access to that camp on Eventbrite, so you can access your camp s data at your convenience. Camper Registration Forms Following camp, please make sure that you mail, scan and , or fax any registration forms turned in during registration at camp to the Mission Center Financial Assistant. Shred all registration forms after turning them in, as they contain sensitive and confidential information about the campers and staff. Staff Registration Forms All staff members should fill in the pertinent information on the registration form and turn it in at the beginning of camp. It is important that the Nurse receive the medical information listed on the form. You do not need to turn these forms in to the Mission Center; be sure to shred them following camp. Camp Staff Selecting a Camp Director The Director of Youth Camping is in charge of selecting Camp Directors. They will work with the current Camp Director to identify the name of a possible successor. That name will go before the Youth Camping Team for the campground area they will be serving, as well as the Mission Center President. Once the Youth Camping Team has provided feedback and the Mission Center President has supported the decision, the Director of Youth Camping will work with the outgoing Camp Director to invite 47

50 C H A P T E R 4 P O L I C I E S, G U I D E L I N E S A N D P R O C E D U R E S the successor into this role. In cases where there is no likely successor, the Youth Camping Team and Mission Center staff will provide feedback on likely candidates. For Caravan, the Director of Youth Camping will work with the current Camp Director to identify a likely successor. The Director of Youth Camping will then discuss that successor with the Mission Center President for support. With that support, the Director of Youth Camping will work with the outgoing Camp Director to invite the successor into this role. For SPEC/IYF, the Northwest Delegation Leadership Team will work with the Director of Youth Camping to identify a new representative for the team. The Director of Youth Camping will then discuss that successor with the Mission Center President for support. With that support, the Director of Youth Camping will work with the Northwest Delegation Leadership Team to invite the new representative into this role. Mentoring a New Camp Director All new Camp Directors will be partnered with a mentor their first year of directing. The mentor will serve as a sounding board for the new Camp Director and provide feedback during the planning process. They will assist the new Camp Director in overcoming any obstacles that come up their first year. Most importantly, the mentor is there to provide intentional, compassionate support to the new Camp Director. The Director of Youth Camping will work with the incoming Camp Director to identify the appropriate mentor. Usually this person would be the outgoing Camp Director, a former Camp Director, or a member of the Youth Camping Team. Directing is a Privilege It is easy to get passionate about directing a youth camp! Directing camps can be very fun and rewarding work. We put a lot of time and energy into making sure we plan camps that are relevant and welcoming. It is also easy to feel a sense of ownership with the camp(s) we direct. This especially becomes true if we direct the same camp for many consecutive years. It can become a part of who we are. It is import to remember that all of our Camp Directors operate Community of Christ camps sponsored by the GPNW Mission Center. Camp Directors are acting in their role on behalf of the Mission Center and Community of Christ. It is appropriate to feel a sense of ownership over the experience, but remember not to get possessive of the youth camp you direct. Directing a youth camp is a privilege. Relationship between Camp Director and Staff It is important that all staff show respect for the Camp Director while at camp. If a staff member disagrees with a decision, it would be appropriate to talk respectfully with the Camp Director about the situation privately. In the end, though, the staff member must uphold the Camp Director s decision. If a staff member is concerned about decisions made by a Camp Director, they may contact the Director of Youth Camping following camp. 48

51 C H A P T E R 4 P O L I C I E S, G U I D E L I N E S A N D P R O C E D U R E S Staff should refrain from offering too many suggestions as alternatives to what the Camp Director has planned. The Camp Director or their planning team has spent many hours in planning, preparing the camp experience. It is acceptable to offer feedback, but only when appropriate, and not excessively. It is equally important that Camp Directors treat their staff with dignity and respect. If they need to address issues with a staff member, it should be done privately and not in front of other staff or campers. Camp Staff as Registered Youth Workers All camp staff members are required to be Registered Youth Workers. To register to be a Community of Christ Youth Worker, the applicant must complete a minute basic training, complete an application with referrals, and be interviewed. If approved, they may volunteer for a youth camp. Registered Youth Workers must be 21 years of age and older. Those who are years of age are Registered Youth Worker Assistants and may only work under the leadership of a Registered Youth Worker. When a Registered Youth Worker Assistant turns 21, they automatically become a Registered Youth Worker. Contact the Director of Youth Camping to arrange training, or contact the Mission Center Financial Assistant with application questions. Number of Staff It is important that Camp Directors and/or Leadership Teams only recruit the number of staff that is required to meet the number of campers. This will help to manage a sustainable budget and prevent issues that can arise from having too many staff members. If the Camp Director recruits more staff than is needed, the Camp Director should release unneeded staff. Consider how you can do this in a way that provides you with the staffing you need while not hurting anyone s feelings. Feel free to reach out to the Director of Youth Camping to assist with this, if needed. Required Age for Staffing Youth Camps All camp staff must be at least 15 years of age to staff a youth camp in the GPNW Mission Center. They also must be a minimum of three years older than the oldest camper, though five years older is preferred. Some of our elementary camps choose to use junior high/middle school aged youth as gofers at camp. If you choose for your elementary camp to do this, discuss it first with the Director of Youth Camping. These young teens might help with work assignments and additional non-substantial tasks. They should never have them authority over, or be responsible for, the campers. Recruiting Staff from Outside GPNW or Canada West Mission Centers Camp Directors are encouraged to recruit staff from within the GPNW Mission Center (as well as the Canada West Mission Center for Samish Island youth camps). If the Camp Director would like to invite someone that is a member of another Mission Center, the Camp Director would need to contact the GPNW Mission Center Director of Youth Camping. The Director of Youth Camping will work with both the GPNW 49

52 C H A P T E R 4 P O L I C I E S, G U I D E L I N E S A N D P R O C E D U R E S Mission Center President, as well as the Mission Center President from the other Mission Center, to seek approval. Once approval is given, the GPNW Director of Youth Camping will notify the Camp Director that they may make the invitation. Privacy Code of Conduct for Staff It is not appropriate for camp staff to share their intimate personal life experiences with youth at camp. The parent(s)/guardian(s) of the children are entitled to know the nature of any such conversation. This is not meant to limit the sharing of testimonies of transformation. Please use good judgment when deciding what personal information should be shared. (Note: This is not intended to limit the sharing of your testimony with the campers, but it is important that we exercise good judgment when doing so.) Dismissal of a Staff Member during Camp It is the hope that we never have to send a staff member home during a camp experience. Some reasons to do so might be inappropriate behavior, abuse towards a minor, abuse towards another staff member, or refusal to participate in the camp experience. If you are ever feeling like a staff member should be sent home, please discuss it with your Camp Pastor and other appropriate camp leaders first. Then call the Mission Center leadership member who is on-call for that day to seek guidance and assistance. If it is determined that a staff member needs to be sent home, then it should be done in a way that is as healthy as possible, to keep communication open with the individual so further ministry can occur. You may need to re-organize your staffing to make up for the loss of a dismissed staff member. It would be very likely that an emergency staff member would need to step in. If needed, work with the Mission Center leadership member who is on call to help arrange this. If abuse was involved, then the appropriate Mandatory Reporting procedures would fall into place. Specialized Staff Certifications All specialized staff members (i.e. Lifeguard, Camp Cook, Camp Nurse, etc.) must bring proof of their certification or license to camp with them. The Camp Director should verify that the certifications are equivalent to our requirements and are up to date. Camp Nurse Requirements All campground youth camps and Caravan are required to have a Camp Nurse on staff. It is recommended for SPEC Northwest Delegation to have a Camp Nurse on staff. A Camp Nurse is highly recommended, but not required, for Caravan huddles or youth weekend retreats. From the World Church Website: All camps and reunions, excluding retreats, must have at least one of the following on duty at all times, in order of preference: Licensed Medical Doctor (who is willing to provide his or her own insurance) Physician's Assistant 50

53 C H A P T E R 4 P O L I C I E S, G U I D E L I N E S A N D P R O C E D U R E S Nurse Practitioner Registered Nurse (RN) Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), with first aid training Paramedic Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) All licenses must be current. Medical staff at camps and reunions must be licensed in the state where the campground is located and in each state where activities are to take place. Medical professional requirements differ among government jurisdictions. It is the responsibility of the campground boards and Camp Directors to understand and follow all local and state requirements. 51

54 ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Chapter GPNW Mission Center Staff Contact Information 2015 GPNW Youth Camp Team Contact Information 2015 GPNW Youth Camp Directors Contact Information GPNW Mission Center Mandatory Reporting Flow Chart Samish Island Campground Emergency Information Samish Island Campground Emergency Plan and Procedures Lewis River Campground Emergency and Safety Procedures Remote Campground Emergency Procedures 2015 GPNW Mission Center Camping Promotions 2015 Camp Registration Procedures Community of Christ Privacy Code of Conduct Christian Education Resources and Tips Administration, Blessing & Giving Baptism, Confirmation & Communion Sample Lice Letter to Parents 52

55 2015 GPNW Mission Center Staff Contact Information Mission Center President (through 6/30/15) Kathy Sharp NE 154th Pl Bothell WA Business Phone: (425) Mobile: (206) Fax: (425) Mission Center Financial Officer Bill McFarlin 2721 NW 117th Cir Vancouver WA Phone: (360) Mobile: (360) Fax: (206) Camping Director Sean Langdon 2824 Miramonti Dr Eugene OR Mobile: (425) Communications Administrator Karen Beckman SE 134th St. Renton WA Phone: (425) Mobile: (206) Membership Services Administrator/Mission Center Recorder To be announced. Financial Assistant Dianne Webberley NE 3rd Camas WA Phone: (360) Mobile: (360) Fax: (206) Mission Center Music Specialist (Music and Video licensing advice) Mary Richardson st St E Puyallup WA Phone: (253) mrichardson@cofchrist-gpnw.org Samish Campground MCFO Assistant Don Brady Scott Rd Bow WA Phone: (360) samishislandcamp@gmail.com Lewis River Campground MCFO Assistant Karen Sundstrom NE Lucia Falls Rd Yacolt WA Phone: caretakers.lrcg@yahoo.com Remote Campground MCFO Assistant Gerrie King Sandy Creek Rd Myrtle Point, OR Phone: (541) Mobile: (541) gerrierking@hotmail.com Samish Island Campground Main: (360) Lewis River Campground Main: (360) Remote Campground Main: (541)

56 GPNW Youth Camping Team Contact Information Area Represented Name Phone Director of Youth Camping Sean Langdon Remote Chris Simonsen Remote Diane Cardwell Remote Dee Robino Samish Dorothy Wilgus Samish Rick Naten Samish Laura Fish Samish (BC Rep) Chris Phelps Lewis River Jeff Weaver Lewis River Brenda Sargent Lewis River Dianne Webberley

57 2015 GPNW Youth Camp Directors Contact Information Camp Eligibility Campground (Co-)Director Phone ELEMENTARY Genesis Entering Grades 3-4 Samish Christine Campbell Kids Camp Entering Grades 3-5 Remote Eric Blickenstaff Zarahemla Entering Grades 3-6 Lewis River Sharon West Mungai Entering Grades 5-6 Samish Mollee Mongrain JUNIOR HIGH Jr. High Entering Grades 6-8 Remote Stan Simonsen Lewis River Russ Roberts Jr. High Entering Grades 7-9 (Hosmer Boys Lake) Andrew Hagman Jr. High Ashley Whitham Entering Grades 7-9 Lewis River Girls Maria Keesee Kluane (Girls) Entering Grades 7-9 Samish Kim Naten Chimacum Mark Chapman Entering Grades 7-9 Samish (Boys) Erik Skoor SENIOR HIGH Sr. High Entering Grades 9-12 Sean Langdon Remote /Current Year Grads Mary Schlenker Kimtah Entering Grades Catherine Peter Samish /Current Year Grads Asst. Director: Celina Beer Caravan Home: Entering Grades Troy & Jody Barnhart Jody: /Current Year Grads Troy: Northwest Delegation SPEC/IYF Entering Grades /Current Year Grads Kelly Mongrain, GPNW North Carla Nilsen, GPNW Central Sean Langdon, GPNW South

58 Mandatory Reporting: To Whom Do You Report? To uphold the safety and well-being of the child/youth, the following process must be followed through immediately after an allegation of abuse is shared or witnessed: Child/Youth Youth Worker REUNIONS & YOUTH CAMPS: CONGREGATIONS: Camp Director Ministry Leader & Pastor Sean Langdon, Camping Director or Bill McFarlin, Mission Center Financial Officer or Kathy Sharp, Mission Center President (until 6/30) Kathy Sharp, Mission Center President (until 6/30) or Bill McFarlin, Mission Center Financial Officer Congregational Pastor World Church Legal World Church Legal Local Authorities Local Authorities In all other situations, or if not sure, contact either Sean, Kathy (until 6/30), or Bill directly. Sean Langdon: / Kathy Sharp: / Bill McFarlin: If you cannot reach of any of these people, then contact Legal Services directly at

59 Samish Island Campground Emergency Procedures In case of FIRE or need for EMERGENCY MEDICAL ASSISTANCE: 1. CALL DEFINE NEED AND PROVIDE THIS ADDRESS: THE CAMP ON SCOTT ROAD Samish Island Campground Scott Road Bow WA Phone: (360) (nurses cabin and dining hall) 3. ADVISE THE CAMP NURSE OR OTHER CAMP STAFF ************************************************************* In case of natural events such as TSUNAMI, EARTHQUAKE, FOREST FIRE, FLOOD, OR VOLCANIC ERUPTION: DO NOT IMMEDIATELY LEAVE THE CAMPGROUND! The CFC (large building on east end of Campground) is a designated gathering place in case of emergencies. A continuous ringing of the bell for one minute is a warning to gather at the CFC. The American Red Cross has identified this campground as an Emergency Shelter site in Skagit County, where people may be directed for emergency assistance. If you were to leave the Campground due to one of the above-listed events, prior to receiving notice to evacuate, YOU MAY INCREASE YOUR PERSONAL RISK. The Campground Caretaker(s) and the Camp Director(s) will contact the Skagit County Department of Emergency Management and provide campground occupants with instructions and timing for evacuation or other emergency procedures. Caretaker Phone Numbers: Manager: (360) Dining Hall Supervisor: (360)

60 Samish Island Campground Emergency Plan The purpose of this document is to provide information to campers and camp staff to understand the emergency situations that can occur. Additionally, this document establishes a procedure that will assist Campground Management and Camp Directors in managing an emergency should an event occur. Samish Island Campground is situated in the Northwest corner of the State of Washington in Skagit County. The Campground is vulnerable to natural and human-caused hazards that could create emergency situations that campers need to be aware of. These hazards include earthquake, tsunami, flood, forest fire and volcanic eruption. Each of these events creates unique potential dangers and there are different actions that campers and camp staff can take that will decrease potential personal risks. To be prepared for emergencies, campers need to have information concerning how to respond in the event something should occur during their time at the Campground. EMERGENCY INFORMATION charts are posted in each building on the Campground and at every Campground-provided phone. These charts provide information to campers regarding what to do in the case of Fire or Need for Emergency Medical Assistance and instruct campers to not arbitrarily leave the Campground prior to authorities issuing an Evacuation Order in the case of a natural event. Specific information and instructions concerning natural events as they may affect Samish Island Campground and vicinity are provided below: Earthquake Samish Island Campground is in an earthquake zone. If an earthquake occurs, take action to protect yourself from injury. If you are inside, DROP, COVER, and HOLD. If you are outside, move to an open area clear of trees and power lines and get low to the ground. There are electrical power lines overhead in the vicinity of the RV Park, Dining Hall, Bathhouses, Classroom Cabins, Nurses Cabin and the west end of the housing Cabin rows. Caution should be taken during and after an earthquake to avoid any downed power lines if escaping buildings or moving about the Camp. Tsunami An earthquake occurring off the coastal areas of the western United States may cause a resultant tsunami. Studies have indicated that such an event could generate a wave up to six feet high in the inland waters surrounding Samish Island. The only locations within the Campground that would be affected by a tsunami would be the lower property around Lake Freestad and East Point. If a tsunami warning is issued for Samish Island, efforts will be implemented to ensure campers are not in these areas of potential hazard and persons should not leave the Campground without assurance of safe passage from Campground Leadership. Flood Severe storm conditions coupled with high tides and winds can affect the low lands around Lake Freestad and the East Point area. Under such conditions, campers should be restricted from being in these dangerous areas. However, flooding from high river flows and potential dike breakage are dangers for the areas adjacent to Samish Island and particularly in the areas the travel routes pass through to reach I-5. Therefore, if flooding threats exist, persons should not leave the Campground without assurance of safe passage from Campground Leadership. Forest Fire on Samish Island Forests exist on both the West and East ends of the campground. These forests and adjacent forest areas west of the Campground are the only forest fire potential dangers in the area. There is ample open space in the center of the Campground that provides sanctuary from any fires that might occur in these forested areas. Should a fire occur, campers will be directed to not enter the forests and to remain in the open spaces of the campground until notified to either evacuate or resume normal activities. Volcanic Eruption in the Cascade Range Mount Baker and Glacier Peak are both located in the Cascade Range and could potentially impact the Samish Island area in the event of a major eruption. Studies have shown that lava flows or lahars from either Mount Baker or Glacier Peak would not directly impact Samish Island. The prevailing wind direction to the northeast also largely minimizes the potential for ash fall to impact the Campground. Should a volcanic eruption occur in this vicinity, camp staff will monitor the situation and advise if any action is required.

61 Samish Island Campground Emergency Procedures These procedures establish and define the responsibilities of Campground Caretakers and Camp Directors during a natural or human-caused emergency event. These procedures are meant to help Ensure the safety of all campers and camp staff and provide direction to those persons fulfilling a leadership role within the Campground should an emergency occur. Campground Manager(s)/Caretaker(s) 1. Ensure EMERGENCY INFORMATION charts are posted in all buildings and near all Campground telephones; periodically verify that charts are in place. 2. Provide a copy of this EMERGENCY PLAN AND PROCEDURES including Attachment to each Camp Director with the Director Packets. 3. Be sure the Camp Director has a copy of EMERGENCY PLAN AND PROCEDURES at check-in. If not, provide him or her with a copy. 4. Request that the Camp Director provide a copy of the EMERGENCY INFORMATION chart to each RV, direct each camper to review EMERGENCY INFORMATION, designate the CFC as an emergency gathering point, and advise them that a one-minute continuous bell means to gather at the CFC. 5. Request that the Camp Director have a copy of the Registration Form identifying all registered guests so a role call can be accomplished, if necessary 6. If information is received that some natural event has or is expected to occur specifically coordinate with the Dining Hall Supervisor/Caretaker in the following actions: Listen to local AM radio station 1340 or 1430 for emergency information releases. Contact Skagit County Dept. of Emergency Management at (360) for specific emergency information and instructions. In coordination with the Camp Director, ring bell for one minute continuously to call the occupants together at the CFC, when necessary. Ensure role call is made, provide emergency instructions and information, and if some campers are not accounted for, organize and implement a plan to locate them. Carry out actions necessary as a result of the instructions from Emergency Management, including any directed actions with emergency services and or the American Red Cross. Assist the American Red Cross in organizing and implementing their assistance services on the Campground should they determine a need to use the facility as an Emergency Shelter. Make a summary record of actions taken as soon as possible after the event. Develop a map of the routes that could be used for evacuation from the Campground to I-5. Keep a large supply of these maps on file for immediate dispensing if instructions to evacuate are ordered. Camp Director 1. Review EMERGENCY PLAN AND PROCEDURES prior to arriving at Campground. 2. Bring copy of EMERGENCY PLAN AND PROCEDURES to Campground. 3. At check-in with Camp Manager(s), ask any questions you may have concerning the information and process. 4. Keep a Registration List of campers during camp for role call, when necessary. 5. At Camp orientation, direct every camper to review EMERGENCY INFORMATION posted in their living quarters, designate CFC as emergency gathering point and advise them that a one-minute continuous bell means to gather at the CFC. 6. If information is received that some natural event has or is expected to occur, keep in communication with Camp Manager(s) and cooperate with them regarding: Bell ringing Roll call Providing campers with emergency information and instructions for evacuation or on-site assistance Reviewing the possible hazards that exist for the event that has occurred, or is expected to occur, and endeavor to keep campers out of risk areas. Dining Hall Supervisor/Caretaker Assist Camp Manager(s) in carrying out their specified responsibilities, as required. (Refer specifically to Campground Manager(s)/Caretaker(s) Item #6 Action List.)

62 Lewis River Campground Emergency and Safety Procedures EMERGENCY PROCEDURES Medical: 1. AEDs (Automatic External Defibrillator) locations: a. Dining Hall inside, next to northeast door (sign posted outside) b. Lodge inside, next to northeast door (sign posted outside) 2. Nurse s cabin and facilities located in Cabin A-6. Equipment such as back board, walker, and wheelchair, as well as STOP and SLOW signs. 3. Phone on west wall of nurse s cabin to be used only in emergencies (911). Fire: 1. In case of fire, call Meet at basketball hoop between chapel and canteen. 3. Extinguisher locations: a. Two in chapel: one at north end, one at south end b. Outside nurse s cabin A-6 c. Outside Cabin B-4 d. Across lower road from Cabin D-5 e. Lodge: one in kitchen, one in upstairs hall f. Dining Hall: one at each door entrance, one in kitchen by cleaning rag drawers g. Canteen h. Office i. Laundry Room j. Residence k. Shop: two l. Carport: one on east wall Natural Disasters: 1. When the air horn sounds, gather at the basketball hoop between the chapel and canteen, and wait for instructions. 2. Emergency exit assignments will be given to individuals when checking in for camp. SAFETY PROCEDURES 1. Cars are not to be parked in B-C row after unloading/loading, due to it being a fire lane. 2. Speed limit is 5 mph and under, especially when children are present. 3. An adult must accompany children at the creek. 4. ALL swimmers, despite age, must wear life jackets. 5. Fires may only be in designated fire pits.

63 Remote Campground Emergency Procedures In Case of Emergency: Sound air horn three consecutive blasts, lasting two seconds each. Repeat this every 10 seconds until everyone on the grounds is at the emergency safety location and everyone is accounted for. Emergency Safety Location: The emergency safety location is located in the center of the field north of the dining hall and west of the myrtle grove. In Case of Fire: 1. Begin emergency procedures. 2. If fire is not extinguishable by staff members, call Evacuate grounds via sandy creek road. If sandy creek road is blocked, notify 4. emergency personnel of number of people on the grounds and campground location: County: Coos (06) Township: 29s Range: 10w Section: 02 Personal injury: Camp nurse and one other person shall take injured person(s) to seek medical aid or call 911 for emergency services.

64 GPNW Mission Center Camping Promotions Save the Date Postcard This 6 x9 full-color postcard goes out med-february. It includes all camp names, dates and grade levels served. One postcard is mailed via bulk mail to all households in the mission center, which consists of nearly 3,000 addresses. Additional postcards are available upon request. Camping Poster This 24 x18 full-color poster goes out in the middle of March. It includes all camp names, dates and grade levels, along with director name(s), phone(s) and camp address*. Two posters are mailed to each congregation, one to each camp director, camping team/board members, and several to each campground. Additional posters are available on request. Camping Mailer The camping mailer/brochure goes out around the middle of April. It includes additional details such as camp themes, Early Bird and regular registration fees and deadlines, registration guidelines and directions, and a list of special items to bring to camp. The paper Registration Form, Financial Assistance Form and Campground Directions are all included in the mailer. One mailer is mailed via bulk mail to every household in the mission center. Additional mailers are available on request. Mission Center Website and Eventbrite The youth camp webpage on the mission center website can be accessed at then follow the link to Youth Camps, or directly at The site contains all the same information as the camping mailer, and is updated as information is received. It also contains buttons that are direct links to Eventbrite, to register for each of the camps. The mission center website s calendar also includes all camps and links to the youth camp webpage. The Chinook Reminders to register for camp, as well as a listing of all camps, appear in the Spring/Summer edition of the mission center s printed newsletter, The Chinook. One copy of The Chinook is mailed via bulk mail to every household in the mission center. News The mission center monthly NewsBrief and Weekly Update news are also utilized, by listing upcoming camp dates and reminders of registration deadlines. news can also be used if you would like to send out requests for staffing needs or other notices. Our news list consists of nearly 1,000 addresses, and pastors/communications coordinators are requested to post at congregations for those members not on the list. Camp Addresses Each camp has its own camp address. The mission center uses this address in all print and online promotions to provide consistent addresses from year to year (they do not change), and to protect your personal address from potential spammers. Camp addresses are forwarding addresses only. Each year we program the address to forward to the director s normal address(es). This allows you to get as you normally do, but advertise the camp address. Contact Mission Center Communications Administrator Karen Beckman at kbeckman@cofchristgpnw.org or for additional postcards, posters, mailers, or to send out camp notices in news.

65 2015 GPNW Mission Center Camp Registration Procedures Camper and/or parent fill out paper Registration Form and mail it with check to the Vancouver post office box OR register and pay online. Paid registration is required for the Early Bird rate, except when receiving congregational financial assistance (in which case the Registration Form must be submitted by the Early Bird.deadline). An or phone call to the Camp Director is not sufficient to receive Early Bird rate. Once or twice weekly, Mission Center Financial Officer and Financial Assistant will open mail, sort registrations and payments, and copy checks. When an notification of an online registration is received, Financial Assistant will add new camper information into a camp Excel spreadsheet (which includes basic camper and payment information), and merge the downloaded information into a Registration Form (which looks just like the paper form). When a paper Registration Form is received, Financial Assistant will add new camper information into the camp Excel spreadsheet, and scan the form to make it available electronically. Once weekly, Financial Assistant will all Registration Forms to the Camp Director, along with the updated camp Excel spreadsheet. During the month before their camp, the Financial Assistant will send s notifying Camp Directors whether or not there are registrations and if any additional payments were received. As camp draws closer, Financial Assistant will also send registration information to the Camping Director and Mission Center President. The Financial Assistant will send printed Registration Forms for all campers to Camp Director one to two weeks prior to camp. Camp Directors should notify the Financial Assistant about campers contacting them directly (with registration, phone, , etc.), so they can be added to the camp Excel spreadsheet. Any payments received should be mailed to the Mission Center Financial Officer s office. Immediately after camp is completed, Camp Directors should notify the Financial Assistant of any new onsite registrations and/or payments, send the new camper information (address, phone, , grade, date of birth, congregation) by , fax or phone to the Financial Assistant, and turn in any payments to the Financial Assistant. (If the Financial Assistant is not there, mail this to the Mission Center Financial Officer). Camp Directors should provide the Financial Assistant and Camping Director with an electronic camp log if possible, as well as numbers of both full-time and part-time staff, which will be used to help future Camp Directors and for Mission Center reports. Financial Assistant will compile various databases for 1) Mission Center save-the date postcard mailings to all youth who have attended camps, including friends not in the Shelby system; 2) ing staff training date(s); 3) Providing Camp Directors with names, addresses, s, etc. of campers that will be moving up to their camp the following year. Camp Directors may also the Financial Assistant to request needed information. (See the GPNW Mission Center Staff Contact Information page.)

66 Community of Christ Privacy Code of Conduct Community of Christ upholds the worth of all persons and believes that all ages should be treated with dignity and respect. The church s children and youth activities are an important expression of the mission of Jesus Christ and evidence the church s commitment to the worth of all persons. It has long been a means by which children and young people can experience the love of God in community. Creating a safe environment in which they can worship and fellowship is also important. Over the years, various local policies/expectations of conduct contracts have been drawn up to foster the safe and respectful environment we strive to create. Legal Services recommends the following guidelines be followed in order to preserve safety and privacy for children and young people and staff at Community of Christ activities: All staff members are Registered Children and Youth Workers or Registered Children and Youth Worker Assistants. All staff adhere to the 2 by 2 rule (no staff member behind a closed door with a child or young person) as laid out in the obligatory Core Training for Registered Youth Workers If a young person seeks personal time with a staff member (Registered Youth Worker), the latter should: o Tell someone what he or she is doing o Adhere to the visual 1 to 1 rule also as laid out in the required Core Training Assign separate accommodations and changing, dressing, and bathing areas at children and youth events by gender. Designate a specified area (bathroom, curtained space, separate part of the campground) for changing, dressing, and bathing/showering. All staff change, dress, and bathe/shower in a private place. Campers also change, dress, and bathe in a designated private space. (Staff should be close enough to monitor behavior, but far enough away to protect privacy.) If separate places are not available for campers and staff to change, dress, and bathe/shower simultaneously, they should do so in shifts in the designated area. Bath houses/showers for pools should be off limits except at supervised times. Campgrounds should aim to provide single-cubicle changing facilities and showers. During any activities for younger children, bathroom trips should be made with two staff members or, as a last resort, in a group with a staff member who is a Registered Youth Worker (not a Registered Youth Worker Assistant). Staff should not enter a stall with a child except in an emergency, and then only with other staff present. (See also Core Training.) During sleep overs in church buildings, etc., staff members should carefully monitor privacy and be vigilant about sleeping, dressing, and bathing arrangements. Should an adult escort an unrelated child to a church activity, such as reunion, permission to do so must be obtained from the child s parents or legal guardian. If sharing accommodations, the adult must be sure that neither his/her privacy, nor the young person s privacy, are violated in any way. Children attending with an adult escort other than a relative should be able to care for their own personal needs (bathing, dressing, bathroom care, etc.). It is not appropriate for staff (RCYW, RCYW Assistants) to share their intimate personal life experiences at children and youth events. Further guidance is given in the Boundaries and Camp Counselor courses. The parents of the children are entitled to know the nature of any such conversation. Staff members are reminded that they are not professional counselors. Guidelines compiled by Team of Legal Services and US Field Apostolic Assistants Nov 2011

67 Christian Education Resources and Tips Keep Learning Styles and Modes in Mind Visual, Auditory, Tactile/Kinesthetic (Movement) The more senses involved, the greater the impact Multiple Intelligences: Bloom s Taxonomy - lower level (rote knowledge to higher level (analysis, application) Right vs. left brain Moral of the Story: One size does not fit all. You need lots of variety! Lesson Planning and Activities Start with the Scripture Set your learning objective (What do want them to know, do, or feel?) Choose an activity to reinforce your learning objective - the activity should match the objective Start with a hook - engaging and accesses background knowledge/experiences Activities should match the lesson objective Age and ability appropriate Varied (one minute per age) Listen to the kids - let them talk to you and to each other (Turn and Talk activities) Come at them sideways Include a So What? How it applies to their daily lives (especially important for older kids) Lesson Plan Resources World Church resources: > Our Mission > Lessons and Ideas Pilot Lectionary Lessons, Seasons of the Spirit, World Church materials, Reunion materials Other resources: (only some lessons are free) Pinterest - lots of great Sunday School ideas Google your scripture and Sunday School lesson Managing Behavior Clearly communicate expectations State expectations in the positive (avoid the no s) Rewards and consequences - nothing fancy, just enough to send a message about what is and isn t okay Remember: church is not school - relationships matter most. Just love them!

68 Questions for discussion on page 2! In these Helps: Describe and Discuss Administration to the Sick, Evangelist Blessing(s), and giving in the life of a follower of Jesus Know how to talk about these with Sr. Highs from within the church and those new to our community Know ways these proclaim Jesus Christ, and promote peace and justice 2010 Sr. High Camp Chats Second of Two Praying for the Sick: Jesus Hands and Our Hands COMMUNITY OF CHRIST GPNW-MC SUMMER SACRAMENTS CHATS Administration, Blessing & Giving Are any among you sick? They should call for the elders of the church and have them pray over them, anointing them with oil in the name of the Lord. James 5:14 NRSV These words from James are precious to the Community of Christ. We have traditionally interpreted them as authorizing the sacrament we call administration to the sick. In this sacrament, elders anoint a person with oil in the name of Christ and seek God s blessing, saying a prayer over the person. For us, no sacrament is more closely bound to the struggle of everyday life, and also God s yearning to meet us in that tangle of life. Administration is the sacrament of emergency rooms, hospital rooms, and living rooms; of camps, reunions, and retreats; of pastors studies, inner-city streets, and even prisons; of bad news from the doctor, of phone calls at 2 a.m., and of life s final moments. Administration is also offered to minister to nonphysical needs such as emotional or mental distress. It is offered to help relieve anxiety if a person is facing a difficult life decision. Administration also may be requested in a worship setting where a group of friends can support the prayer of administration. Administration originates in Jesus healing ministry. To celebrate this sacrament then is partly an act of memory. But administration is more than mere remembering. In this sacrament the church is not just saying that once upon a time a man named Jesus did something like this to heal people and we are copying his example. Rather, we are declaring that the one who did this then is present now, still acting among us and through us. Administration thus makes visible the foundational Christian claim: Christ is risen! When we celebrate this sacrament, we affirm that we live in a world that can never finally be seen as Godless or hope-less. Jesus was what he prayed: fully submitted to God. Administration as prayer calls us to this attitude of yielding. It is never more crucial than in this sacrament to remember that God is not a vending machine: we don t always receive the miracles and blessings we expect, but it doesn t make the blessings received any less important. Administration demands our deepest theological thought, so that it will not be treated as magic or a subtle way to manipulate God into giving us what we want. However, yielding to God is misconstrued if treated as what will be will be. The theologian Karl Barth once said that to pray is the beginning of an uprising against the disorder of the world. Prayer is vital power, not because we know what we re doing when we pray, but because the Holy Spirit is the very life of our own feeble prayers. But healing does not always occur, which raises the question of unanswered prayer. Our experience often presents us with a paradox: the failure to be healed in one way may open the doors to other kinds of healing. Anthony Chvala-Smith, a minister and theologian in Community of Christ, reflected on unanswered administration in a rough part of his life: What I needed was not the healing I thought I wanted, but being sustained in the hard business of facing the shadowy sides of myself. I sought release from personal suffering; but administration brought me again and again to a cross I was not otherwise brave enough to seek. Only years later could I see the narrowness of my self-interest and the breadth of God s wisdom. Sometimes prayer in general, and administration in particular, brings healing and rebirth; sometimes it helps us cope with our dark and discouraging times; and sometimes it leads us only to ordinary time: long stretches of silence and waiting with no parties on the horizon. But always it brings grace. Jesus healings were not isolated examples of divine benevolence. They were to the coming of the kingdom of God, the beginning of God s transformation of this world. We want, work for, and pray for what is not yet: the full coming of God s peaceable reign on earth. In the sacrament of administration we see already the outlines of this inclusive kingdom: this sacrament excludes no one, for there is no copyright on healing and no members only seating. Administration is open and available to all people, of all ages, regardless of membership in the church or religious affiliation at all. Simply the request to be prayed for is enough. God wants us to feel each others suffering, and to pray for each others healing. Jesus hands touched people with the Holy Spirit now our hands do it in Jesus name.

69 Page 2 ADMINISTRATION, BLESSING & GIVING Evangelist Blessing: A Moment to Get Your Bearings - Be Open - Be Engaging - Be Real Don t Act - Give Them Room God is a God of blessing and desires very much to show us that love. God's blessing comes through many avenues, such as family, friends, nature, music, or the written word. God desires to further bless you with a personal and specific blessing at key moments in your life journey: When you are at transition points (graduation, college, marriage, children, divorce, employment decisions, etc.). When the big questions of "Who am I?" and "What is my purpose?" occupy your mind and heart. When you want to understand God's will for your life. When you sense that God is calling you to new pathways. The Evangelist Blessing is a sacrament of special blessing a prayer just for you, preceded by a time of serious preparation and followed by receiving a written-out copy of the prayer for your lifelong reflection. It is a prayer of special guidance and affirmation: an opportunity for God to speak to you individually, through your work with a minister of deep sensitivity and experience. The evangelist s blessing (formerly called patriarchal blessing ) is a prayer (usually recorded and transcribed) offered by a member of the Order of Evangelists. It is performed in a home, chapel, or other appropriate site. The blessing is not held in the context of a public worship experience. The blessing is performed by one evangelist, who places his or her hands on the head of the candidate and delivers words of thanksgiving, affirmation, counsel, life direction, and blessing. Before the blessing, the evangelist and candidate arrange to meet for conversation and instruction. Any person eight years or older is a candidate for the sacrament, although the blessing is rarely offered for someone who has not reached adolescence. There are special prayers of blessing, sometimes at times of crisis or key decision making. The evangelist will take the time to get to know the person requesting the blessing and with that individual make special prayerful preparation before giving this blessing. The blessing provides counsel and guidance on how individuals, in their unique circumstances, can be disciples, living the ways of the peaceable kingdom. The blessing may be recorded for further reflection and remembrance. Evangelist blessings are not just for members of Community of Christ. Anyone may request a blessing they may choose an evangelist, or ask friends or leaders in the church to suggest an evangelist they know. The sacrament of evangelist blessing is an invitation to deepen your individual relationship with God. The blessing offers words of affirmation, assurance, peace, and recognition of giftedness. It may provide counsel about spiritual and relationship choices. It can increase faith, knowledge, courage, patience, integrity of heart, and spiritual strength. It offers neither predictions nor simplistic solutions to your concerns, but gives God s ever-present care amid all of life s circumstances. Questions for Administration Openings: How many of you have received administration before? What was that like for you? Have you ever wanted a prayer said for you when you are sick or hurting? We are confident that God is already at work in your life healthy or sick, happy or hurting so what do you think might be special about a ritual that highlights our seeking God s blessing? Deepenings: What does it mean to say God is not a vending machine? How do we sometimes treat God like a vending machine? What do you think about unanswered prayers? Do you think grace can occur if the specific request made in prayer isn t answered? Would it be better for our prayers to be for a deepened awareness of the grace that is taking place in our lives? Invitations: Have there been times when you wanted some extra support, healing or confidence? Would you ever ask a friend or minister to pray for that over you? Are there wounds in your life physical, emotional, spiritual for which you seek healing? Administration to the Sick is always available, and we have all been sick at times in one way or another, and could use a prayer over us.

70 2010 SR. HIGH CAMP Page 3 Giving as a Follower of Jesus In a culture dominated by money, the act of giving away money for the benefit of others becomes a subversive act that sets itself against the dominant culture. Every Sunday you get to decide what god will rule your life: God or money. Every Sunday you get to decide what kind of world to live in. Read Luke 18: This story comes in three versions in the Bible. Mark first told the story with Jesus advice simply being: Sell everything you have, give the money to the poor, and follow me. Matthew thought that was a little overthe-top, and softened Jesus answer to be: If you want to be perfect, then sell everything you have and follow me. (Readers of Matthew might gladly be mediocre disciples and not strive for perfection.) Luke had a different perspective: if you really want to follow Jesus, before you can even begin, you must give up all your attachment to wealth and things, and only then can you start to follow Jesus. For Luke, the giving up of attachment to possessions (and in so doing, helping the poor) is the first step in the discipleship of Jesus. In Mark, freeing oneself of attachment to possessions is the fulfillment or pinnacle of discipleship. Could it be that beginning to be a disciple is, in fact, just as powerful and pleasing to God as the ultimate discipleship? Understanding the way of Jesus requires a change of heart, of view, of lifestyle. It calls us to join in solidarity with the lowest of our social world. ( Solidarity is the political form of Love. ) This solidarity is both moral and political. Giving up possessions causes a profound understanding and solidarity with others. In so far as we can give up possessions if we can overcome our attachment to possessions, and free ourselves from seeing our salvation in acquiring or amassing possessions, then we are starting down the path of discipleship. Read Luke 16:19-31 then This scripture is about stewardship. Everything we have and are in this world was first created and made good by God and God wants us to enjoy this world. But realizing that everything we have is a gift from God means that,to begin with, everything we have is really not ours at all. It is God s. We re using God s property, living in God s house, and deciding how to treat God s fellow guests. We might talk about giving up things as a sacrifice. That language is appropriate, because we re doing it as an act of faith but we have to be careful how we use that word in today s world. It gets thrown around a lot, and Christians means something very specific when they speak of sacrifice. Sacrifice isn't just getting rid of something or going without something. Sacrifice is the notion that there are more important things than things, namely God's Will, and that sacrifice should rightly be considered a re-orientation or refocusing of one's vision to see as God sees, hear as God hears, feel as God feels. Oftentimes our possession of things (or desire to posses more things) gets in the way of our being able to see as God sees. This is especially true of us North Americans, where we have too much stuff, even while knowing that much of the world doesn't have enough - so for us North Americans "sacrifice" will involve giving up some things. But don't confuse the act with the purpose. We don't give up things just to give them up. We give up things in order to reorient ourselves, to declare and make real our belief that there are more important things than an abundance of things. Both worship and the Christian life are geared to guide us to a point where we can hear and respond to God's Will (as opposed to our wills) and sacrifice must be a part of that process. Otherwise, our words are empty. Disciples Generous Response (the opportunity in worship for us to give our money) and other charitable giving is a social and political statement as well. In a culture and economy so dominated by money (and as a people so obsessed with having more and believing that if someone has something that another person must necessarily have less) then the act of giving away money becomes not only a liberating act for the individual, it becomes a subversive act that sets itself against the dominant culture. In a culture that says you should spend money to make yourself look better it is counter-cultural to say not only am I not going to spend money on myself, I m going to give it to someone else who needs it more than I do. Disciples Generous Response isn t this boring thing in church where someone begs for your money to pay the electricity bills. After a real encounter with Jesus, passing the plate becomes a revolutionary act with the power to stand as a model for a better world. Young people especially are bombarded with messages about how important the right clothes are, expensive cars, seeing the latest movies, and so on. And yet young people are more aware than most adults that there are poor people all over the world and across the street who are literally struggling to survive. How we handle our money says what kind of disciples we are, and what kind of world we want to live in. Every Sunday you get to decide what god will rule your life: God or money. Every Sunday you get to decide what kind of world to live in: one where people starve and you feast, or one where money is not the most important thing. Remember, this isn t about the

71 Giving as a Revolutionary Act (cont d) money! God will survive without your money. The Holy Spirit will continue to work without your money. This is about you: your soul, your discipleship, your world. For most of us, though, getting at our souls, becoming real followers of Jesus, and changing our world is about the money: because money is the god that rules the world of our daily lives. And if we can t stand up to that god, then we re just fooling ourselves. Read Acts 2:44-45 (possibly add verses for context). Christianity began as a movement of people sharing to the point that they abolished poverty! Isn t that incredible? Is that even in the realm of imagination today? Why not? The rich young man whom Jesus told to give everything away, went away sad. He was sad because he knew this was true: we cannot serve both God and money, and every day he was making his choice over and over. Now the choice is yours. Questions for Reflection on Generosity Questions for Reflection: 1.Which version of the Rich Man scripture do you like better? Why? 2. Why do you think we have three different versions of this encounter with Jesus? (Ideas: to keep us from being too attached to just one of the answers as the answer for all people and situations; because the speak to different people at different times in their lives; because some people want to soften the gospel; and so on.) 3. What do you think the author means by saying solidarity is the political form of love? 4. What do you think about the statement: Giving up possessions causes a profound understanding and solidarity with others? 5. In the Gospels, the Greek word that is translated as repentance is metanoia, which means a change of heart or mind. How is this related to the idea of sacrifice as reorienting ourselves to see the world with God s priorities? 6. Do you believe that if you have something, then there is someone else out there who can t have it? How does that reflect a culture of scarcity? Is God s world and worldview one of scarcity or abundance? What might abundance look like? 7. What would you hear or see, if you heard or saw as God hears and sees? What would be important to hear or see? 8. What keeps us from seeing the world the way God sees it? 9. In what ways is it not about the money? In what ways really it is about the money? 10. What do you think about the description in Acts of Christians managing to abolish poverty? Do you think it is possible today? Do you think whether or not it is possible is a good reason to do it or not? This resource was compiled, edited and arranged by Christian Skoorsmith for use in the Greater Pacific Northwest Mission Center (USA), Community of Christ, during Sr. High camps in the 2010 season. Most of the textual material for the first two sections was taken from the International Church website ( and The Sacraments: Symbol, Meaning & Discipleship, edited by Andrew Bolton and Jane Gardner. These sources are invaluable for further research, clarification or background for these helps.

72 Questions for discussion on page 2! In these Helps: Describe and Discuss Baptism, Confirmation, Communion and additional ways of expressing renewed commitment to Jesus Christ How to talk about these Sacraments with Sr. Highs from within the church and those new to our community Ways these Sacraments proclaim Jesus Christ, and promote peace and justice 2010 Sr. High Camp Chats First of Two Baptism the First Step Into a Whole Different World COMMUNITY OF CHRIST GPNW-MC SUMMER SACRAMENTS CHATS Baptism, Confirmation & Communion Repentance & Forgiveness Humility, repentance and the desire to follow Jesus Christ are the only prerequisites for baptism and they are the genuine background against which baptism takes place. The word repentance is a translation of the Greek word metanoia, which is made of meta (e.g. metamorphosis) which means change or after and noia which means mind or perception. Repentance isn t just saying you are sorry, it is a change of your heart, change of the way you see things and understand the world. Repentance is seeing the world and oneself the way Jesus would see it. In baptism, we are forgiven for our sins. God s grace and love wash us and make us new ready for the commitment and transformation of discipleship. Covenant Baptism is a covenant entered into between the individual and God. It is an expression of our faith and trust in God. For us, baptism is the recognized act of commitment to Christian discipleship. In the tradition of Community of Christ, the combined acts of baptism and confirmation constitute entrance not only into the larger Christian fellowship, but also into denominational membership. Baptism also signifies commitment to the universal task of Christianity to which the contributions of other Christians are acknowledged and appreciated. Accountability Community of Christ requires that persons reach the "age of accountability" before becoming baptized. This became identified in the early church as at least eight years of age. The term "age of account ability" means more than a minimum age for baptism; it recognizes that we are accountable to God for our decisions, our resources, our whole lives. If baptism were an end rather than a beginning step, there would be no need for concern over accountability. This accountability grows with our awareness of our decisions, and as we increase our control over more resources. Immersion In the Community of Christ tradition, we baptize by immersion. Emerging from the water symbolizes resurrection and the rising to a new life. The act of baptism unites the individual symbolically with Jesus in his death and resurrection, but also with every other Christian disciple, and particularly within the Community of Christ when performed within this specific denomination. Re-Baptism In Community of Christ, we recognize that the Holy Spirit is working with others in the world who have committed their lives to following Jesus, and marked that with baptism in another Christian denomination. If the Spirit should guide them to membership in Community of Christ, our church may recognize the sacredness of the covenant that person entered through baptism. Depending on the circumstances of the individual s baptism the church may not require rebaptism into our fellowship, but could also honor the request if that person chose rebaptism. Members of Community of Christ who have already been baptized in our church cannot be rebaptized. Reaffirmation of one s covenant with God and recommitment of one s life is recognized in the taking of Communion (to be discussed later this evening). There are other nonsacramental ways, too, of expressing renewed commitment to following Jesus (which will be discussed toward the end of our evening together). Baptism: Sharing the Peace and Justice of Christ Read John 3:3-5 aloud. What does it mean to be born again? Rebirth is a dramatic way of saying humans have to begin all over again if they are to see and enter the kingdom of God. To be born again we leave our tribe or nation to become first of all citizens of the kingdom of God. Our country then is the whole world and every other human being is a fellow citizen because God s kingdom is a nation for others. The Sermon on the Mount is the constitution of the peaceable kingdom of God, including loving our enemies (Mt 5:43-48). Baptism is publicly testifying that you are choosing to follow Jesus with all of your heart, might, mind and strength. Baptism is not the only decision a believer must make: it is one of the first in a process of repentance from all that is selfish, violent and unjust. We covenant with God and with our brothers and sisters to live in this new world.

73 Page 2 BAPTISM, CONFIRMATION & COMMUNION Confirmation the Power of the Holy Spirit - Be Open - Be Engaging - Be Real Don t Act - Give Them Room IDEA: Have campers pick up a stone and bring it with them to the chat. (Have spares for those who forget.) At the end of the baptism section, have them examine their rocks, and have a basin of clean water at the front. When you put a stone in water, it changes color: it becomes more vibrant and nuanced. Water is both a symbol and a change-agent itself. How is our experience of baptism going into the water similar? Different? Confirmation is associated in a very direct way with the gift and presence of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer. Confirmation, otherwise known as baptism of the Spirit, follows baptism by water and completes a person's initiation into the church. The only prerequisite for the rite of confirmation is that a person is baptized. Confirmation sometimes occurs immediately following baptism in the same service of worship. More often, however, several days or weeks elapse between baptism and confirmation. Confirmation is administered by the laying on of hands. The candidate sits in a chair and two elders lay their hands on the candidate's head, one offering the prayer of confirmation. While the emphasis of believer s baptism is on the decision of the individual to follow Christ, the emphasis in confirmation is on God s gift of the Spirit. The Holy Spirit is the strength and enabling power that makes following Jesus possible. In the broadest sense, the Holy Spirit is God present within each element of creation as evidence of their being made by God. In this way, every human being has the Spirit within them from birth. It is not for the church or individuals to say when the Holy Spirit is first present in an individual or even when a person has their first experience of sensing that Spirit working in their lives. Confirmation then is appropriately seen as the ritual act of intentionally celebrating, within the body of believers, the presence and work of the Holy Spirit in the life of the newly baptized person. This brings us to the second and equally important purpose of confirmation: to place the baptized individual solidly and inseparably within the body of Christ. This has to do with belonging being born anew and marked with a new identity. Questions for Confirmation Discussion How does the baptism of repentance and the gift of the Holy Spirit create a new kind of people of God? How can you see the Holy Spirit working in the world? In your hometown? In the church? In your life or the lives of your friends? Questions for Baptism Discussion Openings: Those of you who have been baptized what was that like for you? What was God doing in/through/ for you in that ritual act? What do you think repentance means in real life? Covenant: What do you think the universal task of Christianity is? What is the particular task of Community of Christ? How important to you is association in/with this particular community? Why? Accountability: What does being accountable for our decisions mean? How do you think accountability changes as one gets older? Immersion: What do you think of the symbolism of immersion? Being a member of the body of Christ the church is about being a disciple, but not so much in an individual sense. It is primarily about being connected with others in common commitment. Read Isaiah 61:1-2 & 58:6. Jesus began his public ministry by reading this passage from Isaiah. The Holy Spirit is inseparably connected with justice for the poor in the life of Jesus. In our own strength it is not possible to live the Sermon on the Mount or a kingdom life. With the Holy Spirit and the help of our fellow disciples we can. This is confirmation confirmation that the Holy Spirit will work in the new disciple to live a life that will join with others in liberating the poor. What do you think it means to bring good news to the oppressed? To proclaim the year of the Lord s favor? Do you think immersion is necessary for genuine baptism? Re-Baptism: Why do we recognize the work of the Holy Spirit taking place outside the church, leading some to baptism? Is this important? Wrap-Up: What do you think is most important for baptism? Do you think baptism is important or not?

74 2010 SR. HIGH CAMP Page 3 Communion a Meal That Opens Our Eyes Communion is about three meals and three stories: Passover, the Lord s Supper, and the messianic banquet. Jesus began the sacrament of Communion, of sharing bread and wine, the night before his crucifixion when he and his disciples celebrated the annual Passover meal together. The Passover meal celebrates the liberation of the Hebrew slaves from bondage in Egypt. God heard the suffering of the enslaved people and called Moses to lead them from captivity to freedom. Communion thus has roots in this powerful and central story of God s compassion for the oppressed. Jesus used the symbolism of the Passover meal to point to his own sacrifice, which would deliver the poor from oppression. We remember that Jesus was executed because he dramatically protested the economic abuses of the chief priests in the Jerusalem temple, as they cheated the poor by exorbitant charges for devotional sacrifices. This was the final act of all that Jesus had done in advocating for the marginalized, which led the religious authorities to decide to kill him. (Mk 11:15-19) At this first Lord s Supper, as Jesus shared bread and wine, he asked his disciples to repeat this occasion in memory of him. On the road to Emmaus, after the crucifixion of Jesus, the breaking of the bread became the sacrament of recognition of the resurrected Christ. (Lk 24:13-35) As in Passover, human cruelty and oppression are remebered in the Lord s Supper with the victory of God over evil. The coming kingdom of God is celebrated in the joyful feast that celebrates the final victory over sin and the full coming of the kingdom of God on earth. Communion is a meal of remembering Jesus. We remember Jesus as a servant who washed the feet of his disciples, as a healer, teacher, reconciler, and advocate for the poor. We remember that Jesus was crucified by Imperial Rome. Communion opens our eyes to see clearly the injustices of government and empire, the rich and the powerful. It is a meal of commitment to keep the commandments of Jesus, many of which refer to doing justice for the poor. This is one reason we have a special offering for the poor at Communion. Yet Communion is also more than remembering. In the sacrament of Communion we can go beyond remembering to encounter the Spirit of Jesus in the here and now, in the joy of his presence, to have our eyes opened as for those disciples at Emmaus, opened to the promise and mission of Jesus. We leave Communion committed to work for a world with no more crucifixions, no more victims. We are called through Communion to speak truth to power, to love our enemies, and to work for economic justice for all so that no child anywhere goes to bed hungry or afraid. In Community of Christ tradition, Communion serves as a place to reaffirm the commitment one made at baptism: to live the life of a disciple, to follow Jesus, to share Christ s peace and pursue Christ s justice. We come together around the Communion table to share its grace so that our eyes are opened to see our own sin and the great and marvelous grace of the peaceable kingdom. Communion is also a sacrament that renews the grace and forgiveness of baptism, making us new again and again in pursuit of the kingdom. Ideas for Communion Discussion Questions: What does sharing a meal mean to you? In your family? In your culture? What do you think about when taking the Communion? How does Communion offer us the opportunity to recommit ourselves to living Jesus teachings? What does it mean if you don t share a meal with someone? Who is welcome at the table of Jesus? How might this change who we might welcome or even seek out to join us at the table? Object Lesson: Have a meal set with food for exactly and only three people (three pieces of fruit, three slices of cheese, three glasses of juice, three bowls of stew, three place settings, etc.) - but covered so no one can see it. Invite four campers up for a snack while we discuss. Three sit at the table, and one sits in a chair set apart with nothing. Unveil the meal (with much theatrical ado). Make no direction or comment (except Bon appetite! ) until the end of the Communion discussion. See what happens! (Ignore their questions or protests about the fourth!) Did the others invite the fourth to join them? Immediately, or did they wait? Did they share of their own food? What did the three feel? What did the fourth feel? How does this reflect our task of trying to live the kingdom in our world?

75 Next Steps Being a follower of Jesus doesn t happen overnight and it doesn t stop happening once you start. Living the kingdom life and trying to see the world through Jesus eyes is a process: it grows as you grow you grow as it grows. Many of life s big commitments are like this: you don t know entirely what you re in for until you ve already signed up! Choosing a college, getting married, having children, buying a house, and so on. But falling in love with your partner again doesn t mean you weren t really married, or that you need to have another wedding! Baptism, like other life-claiming commitments, changes us and sets us on a course, it takes us to new places. It will keep on doing that, as long as we have the courage to respond faithfully to our baptismal covenant with the Holy Spirit. Many young people come to an increased awareness Jesus teachings, and yearn for them to impact their lives more deeply. Many feel like they are just becoming aware of the radical reality of discipleship for the first time! Although, of course, for most that isn t true: the Holy Spirit and the community of fellow believers has been working in all of us for some time. Hopefully, several times in one s life we feel the call of the kingdom with special power, and we want to respond. Sometimes we feel the need for something more unique and outstanding than the reaffirmation of our baptism in Communion. Although Communion is the only sacramental reaffirmation of the baptismal covenant after Baptism and Confirmation, there are many ways to express or symbolize a renewed, reenergized, captivating sense of commitment. This is an opportunity to brainstorm some ways someone might do just that. What are ways of symbolically recommitting one s life to following Jesus Christ? - Special campfire - Prayer and tesitmony service - Joining a volunteer service organization like World Service Corps, Peace Corps, Americorps or United Planet - Change jobs to serve kingdom priorities - Move to a neighborhood of need - Participate in a local service project or advocacy activity - Publicly and appropriately declare your newfound passion and intentions - Develop a multi-year plan aimed a preparing yourself to have the experience and education to assume a leadership position in a kingdom-building activity or workplace This resource was compiled, edited and arranged by Christian Skoorsmith for use in the Greater Pacific Northwest Mission Center (USA), Community of Christ, during Sr. High camps in the 2010 season. Most of the textual material was taken from the International Church website ( and The Sacraments: Symbol, Meaning & Discipleship, edited by Andrew Bolton and Jane Gardner. These sources are invaluable for further research, clarification or background for these helps.

76 Greater Pacific Northwest USA Mission Center Today s Date: Re: Lice Issue at Camp Dear Parent(s) and/or Legal Guardian(s): This letter is to notify you that we became aware during camp this week that one of our campers had a lice infestation. When staff became aware of the issue, it was handled immediately in a way that upheld the worth of all present, including the child who had lice. As is our youth camp policy, the child was sent home from camp for treatment. We did a lice check at the time to ensure that no other campers or staff were infected. We also properly cleaned the cabin in which the child was sleeping, and the belongings in it. For more information about head lice, what it is, how it is transferred from one person to another, steps to take after an infestation occurs, and how to treat it, you may go to or do a search online. If you have any questions or concerns, you may contact the Camp Director at the information below. Thank you for your understanding. It was a pleasure having your child at camp this past week. Sincerely, Camp Director: Phone Number: Camp Address: Christ s Mission, Our Mission