Frequently Asked Questions
about working on Summer Staff
Why should I work at camp? Our camp staff is the most important ingredient in successful Christian camping. Christ is communicated through people who are open to His spirit and who are willing to be used to bless and impact the lives of others. Working as a summer staff member will be one of the toughest jobs you will ever do, but it will also be the most rewarding. Many kids’ lives are changed more during their week of camp than they are for the rest of their lives. This is because they are surrounded by a camp staff that truly cares for them. The privilege to change our world by investing ourselves in the lives of children is the best way to spend a summer. You will also have the opportunity to grow in your own faith, and you will be amazed at the things you will learn and do – skills you can take with you wherever you go. And the friendships that develop will last a lifetime! Being a part of Good Earth Village provides staff the opportunity to share their faith in meaningful ways. In this special environment, staff have been able to learn and share what it means to live in a Christian community and in the world as God’s people |
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What are the dates that I would be working?
The summer staff is contracted from May 25 until August 15. The summer begins with 11 days of staff training followed by 10 weeks of program. Staff are expected to work the entire summer unless arrangements are made prior to the beginning of the summer.
What about time off and Weekends?
The week runs from 12:00 p.m. Sundays through 6:00 p.m. Fridays. Staff are occasional asked to help with Sunday morning worships in local communities. Thus, Friday evenings and Saturdays are standard time off for staff. All staff will be required to work 1 or 2 weekends during the summer to help with Family Camp or weekend retreat groups. Staff members are also given short breaks during the week.
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What is Staff Training?
What will my salary be?
In addition to your salary, you will also receive room and board. Any work related injury is covered by workers compensation. Beyond this, we will keep you so busy there will be very little time to spend your money, and therefore you will end up saving most of your earnings! |
How old do I have to be and what experience do I need?
Counselors must be 18 years of age with a year of college preferred. Support staff must have completed at least their junior year of high school. Leadership and Health Care must be at least 21 with 2 years of camp experience preferred.
Do I have to know a lot about the Bible to work at a Christian camp?
We are looking for staff that want to share their living faith with others, which does not mean being able to quote the Bible by chapter and verse. St. Augustine said, “Preach the Gospel at all times, and if necessary, use words.” The love of God is taught through loving others, as well as reading about it. It is through relationships that the Gospel of Christ is spread. The curriculum is important, but we are more concerned about how you show the love you talk about, than how you talk about it.
Do I have to know how to play guitar, light a fire, or have a lot of energy to work at camp?
There is a common misconception that a camp counselor is someone who can play guitar, has an endless supply of energy, and can light a fire with one match in the rain. Although these might be useful, they are not necessarily what make an effective staff member. We want staff that are open and willing to learn new things, as well as committed to sharing their lives with and caring for every camper that comes through our gates.