Volunteer – Code of Conduct

Guidelines for the Discipline of Children

I understand and accept the following:

• Volunteers may, under no circumstances, hit a child.
• Volunteers may not use abusive or derogatory language with campers.
• Volunteers need to seek help when they need it.
• A volunteer who encounters a particularly difficult child will seek the assistance of a supervisor.
• In all dealings with campers, volunteers should strive to respond with words rather than actions.

Guidelines for Camper-Volunteer Contact

• I understand and accept that, when touching campers, the following guidelines should be followed:
• should only ever be on the hand, shoulder, or upper back
• never against the child’s will (unless in the case of clear and present danger to the child)
• never against the child’s discomfort, whether expressed verbally or non-verbally
• should be in the company of other adults
• never when it would have the effect of overstimulating the child
• never in a place on the child’s body that is normally covered by a bathing suit, unless for a clear medical necessity, and then only with supervision by another adult

Volunteer Responsibility

• I understand and accept that I am a caretaker of children.
• I understand that there is a clear power difference between myself and the campers (authority, experience, knowledge, and different set of rules).
• I understand that inappropriate sexual contact with, or physical abuse of children can have a severe emotional and psychological effect on that camper that can last a lifetime.

Guidelines for Volunteers

I understand and accept the following:

• there must be double coverage for staff at all times. One staff member or volunteer should never be alone with one child or a group of children.
• there is no “hazing” of campers by campers or counselors.
• children must be encouraged to change their own clothes.
• children must be encouraged to apply their own sunscreen and to help other children apply theirs.
• volunteers will set limits with children who “cling to” or “hang” on them.
• tickling, teasing or wrestling are not permitted.
• No gifts shall be given to, or received from, campers.

Volunteer Cell Phone Policy

Volunteers are PROHIBITED from using cell phones during camp work-hours. Your primary role is to engage with campers and actively participate in camp activities. You can’t do that if you’re on your phone. We’re committed to the safety, well-being and full engagement of the campers in our care. During camp work hours, volunteer cell phones must be stored in our secure, locked space and may only be accessed with prior permission from your direct supervisor.