Volunteer FAQ

What are the typical job duties of a volunteer counselor?

The paramount duty of any staff member is to ensure the health, safety, and wellbeing of our campers. Cabin counselors attend to the daily needs of campers, including wake-up, bedtime routines, inclusion, and social cohesion. Most cabin counselors rotate with campers through morning activities and supervise afternoon physical activities. Program instructors design and execute specific free thought, science, or art activities as part of our program. Medical staff oversee the health needs of CQNW community members. Our photographer takes a group photos and candids throughout the week, leading up to a final slide show in which all CQNW members are featured. All staff members rotate duties like bathroom and mealtime supervision.

Do we accepts parents on staff?

We believe that for the camp experience to be successful, the camper must have the opportunity to be independent, and free of parental judgement and critique. At the same time, the camper has to be willing to navigate the camp experience without seeking out their parent for comfort and reassurance. To sum up, if you believe that you and your camper are ready to make this a great independent experience for both of you then we would love to have you on staff!

How are we trained?

Staff training is an ongoing, dynamic process. Each accepted staff member is expected to completed a series of professionally developed online training modules prior to camp. At camp, we receive site-specific and activity-specific training and a staff handbook.

Do staff receive pay?

No, Camp Quest staff are volunteers and do not receive pay. All meals and board are provided for the week of camp. Additionally, CQNW will reimburse staff members for first aid, AED, CPR, and lifeguard training completed prior to camp.

Who will I report to?

As a Cabin Counselor you will report directly to the Lead Cabin Counselors for any personal or camper related issues. If you are a program leader or have questions about camp programming you can ask the Program Director. You can also bring your concerns directly to the Camp Director, Assistant Director, or the Medic.

How do I get to camp?

Driving directions will be emailed to accepted staff members prior to camp. Staff are encouraged to arrange carpools through our Facebook group or email.

What if I’m traveling to camp from out of state?

We have extra sleeping bags available as well as spare toiletries in case you forget your toothbrush. If you are flying, please let the Camp Director know your flight details and who will be picking you up from the airport.

What should I bring?

The camper packing list on the Life at Camp page is a good place to start. Staff may bring additional items like electric fans, books to read to campers at bedtime, kayaks or wetsuits (for Kirby staff), personal archery equipment, hobby items, stuffed animals, or camping chairs. Some staff are more comfortable supplementing their camp-provided bunk bed mattresses with foam or inflatable pads.

Can I bring food?

Meals at camp are provided by our host camp, but you are welcome to bring snacks to share or for personal consumption. If you have specific dietary requirements, please let us know. We will work with our host camp to meet those needs whenever possible but you may also choose to bring additional food. There is space available in the staff lounge area for counselors to store food outside of the camper cabins.

Caffeine!

Coffee will be available to counselors throughout the week. Volunteers should supply their own energy drinks or other sources of caffiene.

Where will I live and sleep?

Cabin counselors sleep in enclosed cabins with 4-10 campers and a co-counselor. Other camp volunteers stay in staff-only cabins. Staff and counselor cabins are mixed-gender spaces by default. Staff-only bathrooms and showers are located a short walk from cabins. Laundry facilities are available for urgent needs.

What if I have medications?

Medications should be stored in secure location that is not accessible by campers, preferably in original labeled containers or prescription bottles. The Camp Director must be informed prior to the start of camp of any prescription medication that may affect or impact one’s judgement or their ability to perform their assigned duties.

Will I get breaks?

Yes. You will be scheduled at least two mandatory one hour breaks each day, and additional break time is available. If being on your feet for 12 hours a day is prohibitive, we will work with you to make arrangements for you to have a successful and enjoyable week at camp.

Can I leave camp during the week?

Staff are expected to remain on site throughout the week. If you must leave camp for any reason you must notify the Camp Director. If you need personal supplies during the week, please communicate with the quartermaster or camp leadership.

What should I do with my cell phone?

Counselors should keep their phones charged and on their person while at camp. Phone use should be limited to emergencies while in the presence of campers. Occassional use for taking photos is allowed, but please refrain from posting camp pictures to social media while camp is in session. Staff are expected to use phones, tablets, and computers in staff-only areas during personal break time. Most carriers have some coverage at both camp locations, there is limited wifi access at camp.

Still have questions?

For more information, contact our Staffing Coordinator at staffing@campquestnorthwest.org.