Camp W programming is brought to life by an eclectic mix of educators, community partners, students, parents and supporters!
Let me count the ways...
We think Camp W is a very fun and rewarding place to be - maybe you would too!
Imagine summer days filled with endless adventures, exciting challenges and unbridled fun. Strengthening Connection to Nature. Epic Games. Friction Fire. Nature Awareness. Building Community. Stories and Songs. Dance parties. Cookouts. Do you have a deep connection with the natural world that you want to share with others? Do you love practicing primitive skills and playing epic games? Do you thrive working in the outdoors with youth? Now imagine sharing those days with up to ten happy campers who admire you, look up to you and depend on you as both a leader and a friend.
Camp W is not your typical summer day or overnight camp. We are seeking gregarious, enterprising individuals to join our wilderness skills mentoring team! Our radical approach to education fosters a meaningful connection to the outdoors through nature awareness, primitive skills, curiosity, community and the mystery of the natural world. Youth aged 5-17 spend their entire days immersed in the fields, forests and waterways of undeveloped nature – gathering resources, crafting tools, navigating the landscape, mastering fire skills and surviving limitless challenges together. Instructors will help craft our nature-based programs, facilitate positive group energy, and keep kids safe and engaged.
Whether you’re screaming for joy as you play in the pond, or you’re cheering on your campers as you conquer the Summit together, every moment of every day on camp is filled with countless opportunities to play with, encourage and positively impact the life of a child.
At Camp W, we have a devoted group of staff who return summer after summer because this mountain (and those who call it home) means something to them. A summer at CW can be the most rewarding and most enjoyable job you will ever have. We invite you to join our team and experience the life-changing wonder of Camp W!
DEVOTED & HARD-WORKING:
Yes we have exciting adventures, individual benefits and monetary compensations, but being on staff at Camp W means long hours, hard-work and great dedication. This job will be challenging and at times exhausting, but an unyielding commitment to our campers from every staff member is essential.
COMPASSIONATE ROLE MODELS:
In our cabin unit at Camp W we seek to encourage compromise and selflessness from our campers. As a staff member at CW, we expect you to lead by example – putting others first, living selflessly and prioritizing the needs of our campers above all else.
STRONG MORAL CHARACTER:
Each of our staff members is held to the highest possible standard. We hire only respectful individuals who conduct themselves in such a way that upholds the values we support and promote at camp.
Qualified applicants will have:
• Experience working with children
• Strong background in natural history, primitive skills, and/or team-building
• Compassion, creativity, attention to safety, a passion for teaching and nature
• Willingness to work in a collaborative team to create and deliver safe, quality programs
• Good sense of humor and flexibility
What You Should Expect
To make lifelong friends from all over the country!
To enjoy the beautiful outdoors (yes, you will get a little dirty and sweaty!)
To try new things and conquer your fears!
To laugh a LOT … even if it’s at yourself!
To learn from your campers and peers!
To be surprised at what you are capable of accomplishing!
To be a celebrity … seriously, our campers will view you as a superstar!
What You Should NOT Expect
A standard 9-5 job.
To often find yourself bored and alone with little to do.
To leisurely enjoy our wonderful mountain home as if you were on vacation.
AVAILABLE CAMP W POSITIONS
When applying for camp positions, please be aware that camp runs from June – August. To be considered for a position, applicants must be able to work for this entire period.
Wilderness Trip Leader
Trip Leaders are responsible for holding the “big picture” of each program day and ensuring that programs are operated in accordance with program and organizational protocols. Education around principles such as “Leave No Trace”, bushcraft skills, and nature awareness are key.
Embark on one-week adventures with campers ages 8-17 to locations around our Southern Vermont Mountain and beyond while facilitating development in outdoor living skills, nature appreciation, and personal growth.
WFA, WFR, or Wilderness EMT Required*
Camp Activities Instructor
We are currently seeking activities instructors to facilitate our range of activities that we offer the campers each summer. Summer programming is structured around our Guild curriculum, which focuses on a variety of skills and activities based around the earth elements and natural cycles. Staff training will fill in any gaps in knowledge, and provide the foundation for teaching throughout the summer.
Activities instructors will also supervise and manage the wellbeing of groups of up to 12 children and assist Cabin Counselors as needed. Previous experience with every activity is not necessary, but passion, enthusiasm, an open mind, and a love of nature are all required.
Overnight Cabin Counselor
Overnight Cabin Counselors serve as the primary adult responsible for 8-10 youth in your cabin with a counselor-in-training or other staff support. Cabin counselors are responsible for the day to day supervision within their cabin, including at night. Discover the connection, wonder, and surprise of living with and supporting campers in a cabin in the woods for the summer. Learn more than you ever thought you could about relating to children in a manner that empowers their growth and independence. Encourage participation throughout the camp program by leading through example.
Lifeguard
Our lifeguards have current Red Cross Lifeguard Certifications. Lifeguarding shifts last one and a half hours and occur once or twice a day. The lifeguard is also responsible for all planning and management of the pool. This also includes the maintenance, opening and closing. Our ideal candidate will be an instructor with lifeguard certifications.
Facilities Assistant
We’re looking for a Facilities Assistant to help camp run smoothly behind the scenes. The Facilities Assistant performs daily tasks that include making repairs around camp, taking out trash, managing camp laundry, and other tasks that will pop up whenever something goes awry.
This is a residential position. Room and board are provided.
Facilities Assistant Skills:
An introductory knowledge or interest in the following are needed: Light Carpentry, Plumbing & Electrical, Landscaping, Pool Care, and Custodial.
Facilities Assistant Responsibilities:
Manage camp laundry and maintain the laundry facility in a clean manner. Responsible for cabin sign in/sign out accountability of laundry. Wash laundry in laundry bags to keep track of camper ownership. Run through/share lost and found each week to return items.
Facilities checks each morning - check bathroom for toilet paper, clogs, cleanliness, etc.
Taking out trash
Clean bathrooms
Husbandry - keeping up with food/water needs for out chickens and quails
Grounds upkeep - trash, safety hazards
Filling up water cooler for day camp
Emptying field outhouse
Kitchen Assistant
Kitchen Assistants passionately incorporate hands-on work into creating nourishing meals under the direction of the Kitchen Director. Kitchen Assistants will assist in preparing vegetarian meals and baked goods for enthusiastic campers. This role focuses on the preparation and timely delivery of wholesome, delicious food to hungry campers and staff alike. Experience working in a professional kitchen is valued, though not required. If you bring eagerness to learn, we will bring excitement to train you. Kitchen Assistants are also strongly encouraged to take part in camp clinics and evening programs to experience the magic of summer camp life. Camp W is known for its delicious, wholesome, nutritious food! Our Chefs prepare and serve three square meals each day for both campers and staff. We require training of all foodservice staff, including safe food handling and sanitary procedures for all staff.
Counselor-In-Training
Counselor-In-Training (CITs) live in cabins with instructors and campers ages 6-14, and attend camp for a minimum of two consecutive weeks. CITs participate in all aspects of camp life with their cabins (activities, meals, overnight). With the support of Instructors, CITs have opportunities to lead a variety of camp activities including; woodcrafts, wilderness survival, music, performing arts, cooking, sports, and all camp games. CITs also support camp through a variety of work projects, from collecting firewood, to rebuilding the driveway, and of course the oh-so-loved dish duty. This position is highly recommended for anyone interested in becoming a instructor in the future. CIT spots are open to anyone ages 15-17, although preference is given to former campers in filled weeks.
Day Camp Counselor
Are you looking for a meaningful, creative, and fun position working outside this summer? Camp W is seeking experienced, passionate, and knowledgeable staff for our Day Camp program working with 5-12 year olds. Camp W Day Camp is designed to provide outdoor experiential learning opportunities to youth in a fun and relaxed environment. The majority of your days will be spent outside rain or shine.
This NON-Residential position’s main objective for this role is to provide a safe environment while supervising and managing the well-being of a group of up to 12 children you are placed in charge of. Counselors are dedicated to making sure camp is an amazing experience for every camper.
Day Camp Hours: M-F 8:30am-4:30pm.
Love the outdoors? Are you a Camp W Alumni? Take the next step and become a Camp Instructor and challenge yourself and become a leader of the wild. It is generally best to fill out applications electronically by filling out the form below.
Please fill out the form below to apply!
CAMP W STAFF APPLICATION FORMS
Immersive Community Learning
Thank you for your interest in being an CIT this summer! If you are chosen as a potential CIT for Camp W you will receive an email with further instructions. We have limited openings available each session that fill up fast. Its never to early to commit to being an CIT at Camp W!
ABOUT THE POSITION
Counselors in training live in cabins with Instructors and campers ages 7-14 and attend camp for a minimum of four consecutive weeks. CITs participate in all aspects of camp life with their cabins (activities, meals, overnight). With the support of Instructors, CITs have opportunities to lead a variety of camp activities including; bushcraft, wilderness and survival, music, performing arts, cooking, sports and games. CITs also support camp through a variety of work projects. This position is highly recommended for anyone interested in becoming a Instructor in the future. CITs should possess the following qualities:
♦15-17 years old ♦ Interest in working with children ♦ Experience in a camp or outdoor setting
♦ Strong leadership skills ♦ Positive attitude
♦ Demonstrated ability to work in a team ♦ Self-starter ♦ Acts as a positive role model
And what to do with what you brought...
Personal Vehicles
It may be helpful, though not required, for you to have a car at camp to use on your day off. It is important to note that should you choose to drive/park your personal vehicle you assume all risk, liability, and responsibility for your vehicle. Lock your vehicle and avoid storing items of value in your vehicle. Vermont State law requires all drivers to have valid proof of auto insurance.
The speed limit on Waubanong Road and CW Property is 15 mph. Once you arrive you are required to register your vehicle. You can do this at the Employment Station during Skills Week shortly after your arrival. You will be required to display a parking permit in the front window of your vehicle. You cannot park at your camp. Please park your vehicle in one of the designated staff parking areas your assigned upon arrival
Primarily for insurance reasons, as well as for safety and liability reasons, no campers may ride in employee’s personal vehicles at any time for any reason.
Valuables
While we strive to be an open and trusting group, we need to be aware that cameras, knives, binoculars and other attractive gadgets can be a temptation for some. Keep your valuables out of sight and avoid keeping large amounts of cash in your cabin. Passports, tickets, and small valuables may be kept in the office safe. CW is not responsible for lost, damaged or stolen possessions. You are welcome to bring bicycles (w/helmets), non- motorized boats and other equipment (personal equipment can’t be used in camp programming on our property, but can be used on days off). Unfortunately, CW has no way of providing security or insurance for these items. Bring them at your own risk.
Please label everything! Your name and address should be pasted outside and inside of trunks or duffel bags. Your name should be on all your belongings. Because stick on labels come off, use sew-on labels or indelible markers on clothing, poncho, musical instruments, camera, fishing pole, etc.
Camp W recognizes that the prospect of buying every piece of equipment on the following list is an expensive one. Obtaining the things on this list does not need to be an economic hardship; much of the equipment can be found used. We do have extra equipment here at camp that can be used by staff who aren’t able to bring their own (please understand that these are the same supplies we loan to campers). Make every reasonable effort to bring your own gear. Outgrown, serviceable camping gear will be welcome as a donation, for use by those without adequate equipment.
Also, some people who work at camp don’t need all this stuff (cooks who don’t go on trips, etc.). If you’re wondering what equipment you do or don’t need, ask your camp director.
Clothing
A pair of sturdy boots ( staff/campers need a pair of comfortable waterproof hiking boots that do not have to be leather)
2 pair of sneakers, or one pair sneakers and another pair of lightweight footwear
Shower shoes
4 pairs of heavy wool socks to be worn with boots. These may be a wool/nylon blend but should be at least 80% wool. Allow for some shrinkage when they are washed and dried.
Underwear – 9 pairs
Bras – 3, including a sports bra if you use one
Socks – 9 pairs, preferably non-cotton
2 wool or flannel shirts
3-4 pairs long pants. At least one pair should NOT be jeans. Jeans take forever to dry. Bring a pair made of cotton/polyester blend. Work pants like Dickies are rugged and dry quickly.
Heavy wool or fleece sweater or jacket (A wool sweater or fleece that is warm, but able to be packed in a backpack as it can get down to the 40s sometimes)
4-5 pair shorts. At least one of these should be athletic style i.e. loose fitting and not below the knee. This style is best for hiking.
6 T-shirts
2 Bathing Suits
2 Bandanas
Pajamas
2 Towels
A pair of work gloves
Miscellaneous Equipment
Duffle bags must fit under the bunk, so no taller than 14 inches. A backpacking pack is recommended instead of a duffle if you can fit your items in one.
Sleeping Bag: synthetic fiber fill with nylon shell for temperatures down to 40 degrees
Stuff sack for sleeping bag
Sleeping bag straps – for attaching the bag to backpackSleeping pad- for sleeping while on trips (optional)
Backpack – with a padded hip belt and padded shoulder straps.
Daypack or bookbag
Poncho and/or Rain Jacket
For sleeping in the camp cabins, you have options: 2 fitted, 2 flat cot size sheets, 2-4 blankets. Sheets, 1 blanket, and a sleeping bag that can be opened to be used instead of blankets. Use your sleeping bag and 2 washable sleeping bag liners plus 1 blanket
A small pillow and 2 pillowcases
Eating utensils for use on camping trips, including a sturdy plastic cup, a plate or shallow bowl of aluminum, stainless steel, or enamelware, stainless spoon or fork, and something to put them in.
Water bottle – 2 x 1-quart capacity, plastic with a wide mouth.
Laundry Bag
Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
Toiletries – in a plastic bag or stuff sacks. Try to pack enough for the whole summerInsect repellant
Stationery with stamps already stuck on envelopes
Pens, pencils, journal
Sunscreen and lip balm
Extra pair of glasses/contacts and prescription, if applicable
Optional Useful Items
Rubber boots for in-camp rainy days and community chores
Hat for sun protection; work gloves for work projects
Thin non-cotton liner socks to wear under wool socks
Shower caddy
Plastic storage bins (for in-cabin clothing organization. Plastic bins are also nice for keeping clothes dry during humid weeks. No taller than 14 inches)
Musical instrument
Fixed-blade knife and sharpening stone
Compass
A couple of good books
Dress-ups (costumes) for skits and themed dances
SketchpadSewing kit, knitting materials, other crafts
Incense and/or essential oils for cabin time
Personal Equipment
Staff can bring personal sporting equipment for use during camp under the condition that it is inspected and meets the standards of our program. CW is not responsible for these items if they are lost or stolen. In addition, staff are not allowed to use personal rock climbing gear or camp stoves during CW programming.
Items Not Allowed at Camp
Guns, firearms, explosives, recreational drugs, cigarettes, alcoholic beverages, tobacco products of any kind. Prescription drugs require a valid prescription from a physician.
Items for Staff Designated Areas & Times
Radios, iPod, MP3, Kindles and DVD players, cell phones, hair dryers, curling irons, hatchets (we use only axes or our own hatchets when supervised), large or many bladed knives, candles, electronic games and keyboards, breakable bottles, candy and junk food.
Personal Laptop, Tablet, or other Communication Device
Camps are “unplugged” in the summer; therefore, you will be restricted to very specific times and spaces to use laptops or any other electronic communication devices. If you choose to bring this equipment, please be aware that we do not have individual lockable spaces for every staff person; we cannot guarantee the safety of these items. Ask your camp director if bringing your computer is helpful for your role at camp in the summer.
If you have specific questions, please ask your Camp Director what equipment you may need for your position.
CW is not responsible for lost, stolen or damaged possessions, and CW has no way of providing security or insurance for your personal items—this includes your laptop or other communication devices.
Exciting volunteer opportunities for friends of all ages and skill levels.
Field Volunteers
Prior experience and a background check may be required.
Land
Volunteers help clear trails, haul wood, and care-take the beautiful natural areas we use for our programs.
School Break and After School Programs
Volunteers serve as regular assistants for school-year youth programs: homeschool programs, after school and more!
Summer Camps
Act as assistant instructors for our summer camps and receive training in youth mentoring. These volunteers get to choose at least 2 weeks in the summer to come to camp and support our instructors leading and playing games and activities. Other perks may also be included.
Other Opportunities
Advisory Board for Camp Waubanong Inc
Members of the Advisory Board offer their expertise across various disciplines to help leverage the reach of Camp’s vision and mission as well as coordinate the programming relationships of Camp W. They also are ambassadors who engage in outreach to build the organization’s reputation in the Windham County Vermont area and beyond.
Marketing
Volunteers help distribute flyers, host booth events, and support outreach efforts.
Administrative
Volunteers help with much-needed tasks such as organizing photos, data entry and analysis, reception and registration, and summer camp preparations.