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Volunteer Openings

Volunteer
at Camp

Come join the fun and help make a positive impact on children living with serious illnesses

Whether you have a day, weekend, week or an entire summer, our camps offer a variety of volunteer opportunities. An integral part of making camp happen all around the world, our volunteers make up more than 50% of the adults that help run our camps;

Volunteer applications are handled at the local camp level. To find a camp near you, visit our find a camp page!

You asked. We answered.

Discover the answers to some of our most common questions and queries about working and volunteering at camp.

How old do I need to be?

Applicants must be at least 19 years old to work at camp. Please confirm the age requirement for the camp and position of your choice prior to applying.

What are the requirements for a summer or volunteer position?

We are looking for fun, energetic, creative, responsible and compassionate individuals who will be dedicated to giving our campers the best camp experience possible. For certain program areas (for example, lifeguarding, ropes course, etc.), specific skill certifications are required. CPR and First Aid certification is strongly recommended. Leadership positions may require additional experience, and additional requirements for other positions may vary (please review the specific requirements for the position of your choice before applying). Each position is also contingent upon submission of requested medical documentation and a successful background check.

What are the medical requirements of working at camp?

SeriousFun camps are specialty medical camps and we must take every measure to protect the campers’ health and safety. Camp staff and volunteer members are required to submit a variety of medical documentation, including proof of childhood vaccinations, an updated physical and other medical information. We do not provide health benefits for summer positions.

How long will I be at camp?

Paid summer staff positions may span from late May to late August, depending on individual camp needs. Candidates must be able to commit to the entire period.

How can I volunteer or get involved with Global Partnership Programs?

The mission of serving children in developing countries resonates with SeriousFun camp supporters and we receive many requests to volunteer at a GPP camp. However, unlike our SeriousFun Camps in the US and Europe, the GPP programs rely on local staff who not only speak the language and know the culture, but who are also available to participate in the camp follow-up activities. In addition, the ultimate goal of the GPP is to support and build the capacity of the local leadership team so that they can plan and implement camp year-round. Although volunteer opportunities in these regions are unavailable, we encourage you to consider volunteering at a SeriousFun camp in the US or Europe by visiting their individual camp websites.

I want to apply for a staff position but cannot attend the mandatory training at the beginning of the summer. Can I still work at camp if I can’t attend orientation?

Training is a mandatory requirement for all staff members and volunteers. If you are a student and training conflicts with school, consider researching whether your professors will allow you to take your finals early. Alternatively, camps offer shorter term volunteer positions that start later in the summer.

Where will I live, eat and sleep during the summer?

Lodging on site is available and required. In some cases you may be housed in the same cabin as your campers and co-counselors, in other cases you may live in a separate staff lodge. Don’t worry, either way, you’ll have a place to rest your head at the end of a tiring day. Both cabin and program housing areas are equipped with bathroom facilities. Staff members have access to refrigerators, as well as access to common area laundry rooms and kitchenettes.

Will I be paid?

Yes. Staff members receive a stipend for the duration of employment. In addition, you will also receive lodging and meals while you’re working at camp. Volunteers are not paid.

What expenses am I responsible for as a summer staff member?

Summer staff is responsible for airfare or travel to and from the campsite. Your largest expense while at camp might be any extra travel/recreation you choose to enjoy during your time off, as well as any meals you purchase during time off in between sessions. Other expenses might include personal items you will need to bring to camp such as a one-piece swimsuit, bug spray, etc. Health insurance is not provided and is your own responsibility to obtain.

Are there any restrictions I should be aware of?

Employment positions will be contingent on positive references, criminal background check and completion of comprehensive medical history/physical forms. Smoking is not permitted anywhere on our campgrounds. Drinking and drug use are also strictly prohibited and are grounds for immediate termination.

What is the deadline to apply to camp?

Each camp has a specific deadline based on their specific hiring needs. However, generally speaking, applications will be accepted from January to March. Interviews will begin in February and all staff will be accepted by May.

How do I apply?

Each camp operates on a slightly different schedule and conducts their own hiring, therefore we recommend that you visit the camp(s) of your choice, review their calendar, opportunities and requirements and then apply directly through their website.

You may apply to more than one camp; however, you must disclose this information on your application. Please note that each camp has its own separate application and interview process. Applying and/or interviewing at one camp does not make you eligible for employment at any of the other SeriousFun Camps. Once an applicant accepts a position at one of the camps, all other position offers are void.