General Volunteer F.A.Q.s
How old do I have to be to volunteer as a counselor at Camp del Corazon?
You must be 19 years old on or by staff day.
What is the application process like?
The application process begins with a short online application where we can get your basic information and learn a little about you. Next you will select a group interview date, in May, where you will meet our camp director and other new staff. After your interview you will be contacted by the camp office regarding the status of your application.
If I apply am I guaranteed a spot?
Not necessarily. While we would love to get everyone involved in camp, applications are evaluated on a first come, first served basis and we can only accommodate so many staff members who meet our qualifications. Camp del Corazon has many other volunteer opportunities; there are lots of ways to get involved!
What kind of positions are there?
Please refer also to our list of available volunteer job descriptions
There are 5 types of positions for volunteers at camp.
-
Cabin Counselor - Cabin counselors live in a cabin with a group of 5-8 campers. CC's spend all day with their cabin group: at meals, during activity rotations and during evening activity.
-
Activity Counselors - AC's sleep in cabins with campers as well as spend their meal times and evening activity with their specific cabin group. During the day, AC's run an activity for all age groups during the day. (Waterfront, Climbing Wall, Arts & Crafts, etc.)
-
Med Nurses - Med Nurses are in charge of the medications and day-to-day physical wellness of a cabin. A med nurse may live in a cabin or with other med nurses if he/she is assigned to a cabin of the opposite gender. Needs to be a registered nurse in California for at least one year. Cardiology experience is not required.
-
Support Staff and Activity Directors - These are staff that plan and facilitate the programs for camp. Support Staff plan the evening programs and daily schedule of In Person Camp as well as supervising counselors and supporting cabin dynamics at camp. Activity directors train and supervise their activity staff. Virtual Leadership/Support Staff help create and facilitate virtual programming for Virtual Family Camp.
-
Virtual Camp Counselor - All the fun, mentorship, bonding, activities, and laughs from the comfort of your own home!
Why is Staff Development day mandatory?
Staff day is where our counselors are prepared with the skills necessary to supervise and support our special needs population. Each year offers an opportunity for growth as a CdC staff member. Important medical, emergency and safety procedures of camp are shared at Staff Day. Staff Development day is the only day our entire staff team comes together, it's when we go from being individual counselors to one cohesive staff.
Can I miss staff day if I've been before?
No. Staff day provides new information each year and is important for your development as a counselor. Additionally, ACA standards require all staff to attend a minimum of 8 hours of training each year.
What is the date of staff day? Are there any other important dates I should know about?
The date of staff day and the group interviews are listed on the volunteer page. You must be able to attend one of the group interview days.
Why do you do a background check?
Our priority is the safety and wellbeing of our campers. To ensure this, everyone who works at camp undergoes a thorough background check. Bill AB506 requires all Childcare Organizations to receive LiveScan (fingerprinting) background checks for all staff. These background checks last up to 5 years. If you have been staffed by CdC, we will be in contact about this.
Also, if you are a teacher, nurse or have any other profession that itself requires LiveScan results, you cannot forego the Camp del Corazon LiveScan, as LiveScan is location-specific.
Do I have to live in a cabin with kids?
Yes. You must be willing to sleep in a cabin with kids to volunteer at in-person Camp for Camp del Corazon.
Do I get any time off?
For in-person Camp: No. You are responsible for your cabin at all times of the day. There are a few nights during camp where you will have the opportunity for a free hour to socialize, check your email, etc.
For Virtual Camp: Yes. There are lots of breaks and you sleep and rest in the comfort of your own space!
Can I bring my phone to in-person camp? Can I check my email?
We recommend you leave all electronic devices at home. There is very limited cell reception and no internet available. If you do decide to bring your phone to camp, it must be out of sight of campers at all times. You must have a watch at camp - your phone may not be used as your watch or your camera. Phones are only ever allowed to be in use between 11pm and 12am following staff meetings.
Can I leave the island during camp?
No. We have evacuation plans in place for emergencies only. You may not arrive to camp late or leave early.
What is Support Staff? How can I apply?
Support Staff is a leadership role at camp for members of our returning staff. Support Staff are in charge of the planning, facilitating and supporting a group of campers. If you are a returning staff member you may indicate your interest by checking the appropriate box on the application. There is an additional interview required for this position.
Are there any paid positions available?
No. Camp del Corazon is a non-profit organization and is completely volunteer based.
How long does camp run?
Camp runs for three, back to back, five-day sessions at the end of August. Counselors are hired for a period of one, 5 day session. (See volunteer page for dates.)
Virtual Family Camp will run at least once at the beginning of the summer (late June).
Can I come to camp for more than one session?
No. Exceptions may occasionally be made based on necessity.
Can I come with my significant other?
You may apply for and attend camp with your significant other. However, all behavior at camp is to be strictly platonic.
Camp del Corazon Staff Internet Communications Policy