CAMP FOWLER

VOLUNTEER "everything you need to Know"

HANDBOOK

Updated 10/09

Hunting for Hope

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Camp is an experiment in CHristian living...

A summer at Fowler is a unique chance to leave one’s familiar environment and belongings in order to engage in an experiment in Christian living where each person participating is recognized as an essential part of the community.

this means living at Camp for a week is different from living at home, but that’s a good thing.

The experiment is to creatively provide opportunities for campers and staff to grow in their relationship to God, others around them, the world, and to gain a better understanding of who they are as individual children of God. this means Camp is for everyone, everyone, especially you.

Here, on a twenty-four hour basis, summer and weekly staff, as mature members of the Church engage in living with and guiding younger members. Camp is one of the few places where adults and children will learn from each other in a safe and supportive environment.

Here, each individual is encouraged to express his or her interests and concerns freely and grow closer to God. Camp offers a special way to learn about yourself...

Here, the community of believers worship God and enable each other to go forth into the world to witness the Kingdom and power of God. ...and a special way to share your learnings with others.

-Uncle Heath, 2005

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I love the energy this place has.Aunt Darlene

the Flow of the Camp experienceNot every day is the same at Fowler. The campers are being changed through their time at Fowler, and the activities we involve them in will facilitate their change and growth.

Laying theFoundation

Ice BreakersGet accustomed to

the camp lifeGoal Setting

Trust

sundayGames on the Meadows

OrientationEvening “rap-up” time

Building Community CommunicationProblem SolvingSharing Needs

monday-WednesdayChoosing activities

Working with cabin groupFree time

Risking with Each Other

SharingDeeper Level Trust

Choosing your Challenges

tuesday-thursdayTrying new ideas and

activitiesBecoming friends

Interdependence vs. independence

Initiate Challenges and Social

Responsibility

SupportApplication

thursday-FridayApplying lessons to life“So what” will change

when you go home

Transforming the Group

ClosureDebriefingReflection

Friday eve-saturdayWorshipVideo

Morning watchHug lineBlessing

I love coming here to this community: this village.It’s a place where you can really focus on God . It’s a place where

you can really make a difference.Aunt Nancy

the Camp Community

You might say that Fowler is made up of not one, but three distinct and intertwined camp communities. Each of these separate communities come together for one week at Fowler.By being aware of what each separate community’s needs and gifts are, we are able to work at coming together as one unified community.This is what makes each and every week at Fowler unique and challenging.

Campers’ needs•acceptance•security & safety•understanding of rules•new friendships•activities designed for them•language they can understand•challenges•personal time•guidance in living in community•to be talked to, not down to•positive role models

volunteers’ needs•to be treated as equals by summer staff•a feeling of “community”•an understanding of expectations and camp rules•time to talk to adults•a sense that they are doing ministry, not babysitting•personal sanity time•a chance to share their unique gifts

summer staff needs•time to prepare for tasks•a feeling of ownership in the overall ministry•a feeling of “community”•chances to foster new friendships •“leisure” time•personal growth time•feedback•resources and equipment•well-modeled leadership

Campers’ gifts•enthusiasm•sense of newness•aware of wonder•history of Camp Fowler and how things used to be

volunteers’ gifts•fresh energy•new eyes to see “old” problems•perspective on the camp experience•skills & expertise in certain areas-history of Camp Fowler and how things used to be

summer staff gifts•a developed sense of the rythm of camp•a deeper understanding of the camp experience•a pre-established small“community”•an understanding of rules and expectations•specific skills & expertise-a knowledge of “where things are”

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Cabin Counseling

Being a Cabin Counselor is arguably the most important role that anyone plays at Camp Fowler. It is the Cabin Counselor who has the opportunity to make the biggest impact on the life of a camper. It is a TREMENDOuS OPPORTuNITY and a HuGE RESPONSIBILITY!

It is a TREMENDOuS OPPORTuNITY for you to: -spend time with a young person.Your showing interest in them helps them grow in confidence in who God created them to be. -model a healthy lifestyle. As you spend your days together the campers can watch how you act and learn for themselves how to better care for themselves, others, and the world around them.-take an interest in the camper to draw out thoughts, questions, hopes, and issues they may have. Camp gives us the time to gently get to the heart of each child.-live as a disciple of Christ. You don’t have all the answers, we know that. But you have chosen to follow Jesus. Letting the campers know why and how that affects you challenges each of them to make this decision at some point in their own lives. It might be during camp, it might be when they get home. It might be a long, long time from now. But you will be the living example of what it means to follow Jesus. YOu will be what they picture when they picture a Christian!

Of course, being a Cabin Counselor is a HuGE RESPONSIBILITY because you will be :-the mother Hen, for some kids who need help finding their socks in the morning or swim towel or remembering where they are supposed to go. You’ll wake them in the morning and read them to sleep at night!-the answer person, who is supposed to know all the nuances about all the rules! (the rest of this book should help with some of this).-the referee, who will intervene when there are conflicts within your cabin to help campers resolve issues. (See page 16-17 for help on this).-the Cheerleader, who helps generate excitement even if it’s raining!-the pastor, who shares the Good News in word and deed! (The Chaplain for the week will be a lot of help here!).

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Fowler Camp philosophy

to glorify god,to foster growth in Jesus

Christ as lord,to experience life in a Christian community,to encourage people to

live as Disciples of Christ.

Each week approximately 10-20 adults volunteer their time and talents to Fowler. Many of these volunteers have been coming to Fowler for years. In many ways these adults form the backbone of our summer ministry. As summer staff, you should: 1. Make them feel special and at home. It is as much their “home” as yours. 2. Help them with any questions they may have. 3. NEVER reprimand a volunteer. If you have problems working with a volunteer, see the Director. The Director will determine a course of action.A wonderful relationship can often be formed between a summer staff person and a volunteer staff person.

volunteer tips• Enjoyyourcabin–beapositiveinfluenceinthecampers’livesforthe week you have them. Kids crave unconditional love. give them the “adult” love and attention they may not receive outside of camp!

•Don’tletyourpersonal“stuff”affectyourinteractionwiththe campers.Ifyouneed“timeoff,”useaflextimeorothertimetotakesome personal time! smile we need to teach young kids to smile more often!

•Goonadaytrips/outofcampactivitiesifpossible(canoeing,hiking, etc.) a great way to bond with campers and get a different perspective!

•StartabookonSunday,readaselectioneachnight.Thekidsloveit andlookforwardeacheveningtothe“nextadventure”(booksareon the bookshelf in lakeside lodge)!

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How to Wrap up Your Day at CampALL CAMPERS SHOuLD BE IN THEIR CABIN WITHIN 45 MINuTES OF GETTING BACK TO THE CABN AREA For younger kids this time is shorter and counselors should all agree each night on when campers need to be in their own cabin. Cabin Counselors must always know where their campers are and no camper is allowed to leave the cabin area without an adult.

At the end of every day, the campers will gather in their cabins for a daily “rap-up” time. We used to call these “devotions” but in many ways these times are more than just a devotional. These are times for campers to share their daily experiences, to reflect on what they may have learned, and to remember (or perhaps, be reminded) that God was present with them all day long. Sometimes volunteer counselors are uncomfortable leading these times. Staff will be asked to assist if such a need arises. A basic outline of a “rap-up” time would be:

What did you learn about yourself today? What did you learn about others and how you get along with them? What did you learn about (the theme for the day)? What did you learn about God? Close with a prayer.

Each week the Chaplain will have ideas for you to wrap up your day with the kids as well. If you’re not sure what to do, ask her or him what might be best.

READINGThe camp has a fabulous library. Take advantage of this. Often campers just need that little extra to help their bodies calm down to get the necessary sleep they need. Pick one book for the week or read different short stories each night. avoid “ghost” or “scary” stories. We can offer a special time for these, but some kids really don’t like them and sometimes feel “trapped” because they are supposed to like them at camp. (who made that rule?!?).

PRAYERAlways a good idea! Many counselors are hesitant to pray out loud at first. It’s easy, really. Just remember to: THANK GOD for all the good things you saw or experienced today.REMIND GOD to care for the world and those we love while we sleep.ASK GOD to watch over each of us.AMEN. (that’s a good way to end a prayer!)

the First three Hours

The first hours are critical in giving the camper a sense of what their week at camp will be like. Camper registration starts at 2:30 p.m. in the ARC. Counselors who have children to register will do so immediately following the staff meeting. As a cabin counselor, make sure you:

• Are at your cabin no later that 2:30 p.m. That way you can be settled in before the campers arrive. Check your cabin to make sure it is clean and neat and properly equipped.

•Greet campers and parents with enthusiasm. Parents want to know their child is in good hands. Ask parents if there is any

information that would be helpful for you to have regarding the child. Remind them that the store will keep the camper’s money on account to avoid loss or theft. also remind them that cell phones, Walkmans, ipods, etc. are not allowed at camp and that they should not leave any food with the campers.

• Don’t panic if someone shows up at your cabin that is not on your list. Welcome them anyway and one of the summer staff will inform you later if there have been changes in the cabin lists.

• all camp games begin on the Meadows around 3:30 p.m. Group builders and Ice-Breakers will help form the camp community quickly. Campers should come to the Meadows. If you are still waiting for a camper to show up, a counselor from each cabin area should agree to stay in the area to help greet campers who arrive late. Swim tests are held on Monday morning.

Dinner is at 5:30 p.m. Cabin groups meet on suits Field for an opening picnic celebration.

volunteer tips •Cometocamprested.Bringlove,smiles,andapositiveattitude. •PLAY–Kidsseeadultsstandingonthesidelinesenoughathome! •BEFLEXIBLE–Yourbedandshowerarewaitingforyouathome! •Bepreparedtosleeplessatcampthanyoudoathome. •Ifyouarestandingtherewondering“shouldIgetinvolvedinthis activity/game/trip?”Theanswershouldalwaysbe“YES!” •LettheHolySpiritfillyou! •Enjoyeverypreciousmoment.Theweekgoesbysofast! •Gettoknowthecampersoutsideofyourcabin.Allcampershave wonderful gifts to share! •Bringareadinglightifyouhaveone.

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HowDoITalkToKids? 1. Develop and maintain a sensitivity to the needs and desires of the camper so that you understand when one is bringing a problem to you. 2. Concentrate your attention on the camper and not yourself. 3. Listen and give full attention to what the camper is saying. 4. Organize what you want to say. 5. Make no judgments about what the camper is saying. 6. Assure him/her by your interest and attention that you approve of him/her, you are interested in his/her problem and that you empathize with him/her.

7. Help the camper think through the problem.

8. Try to understand the feelings that lie behind the words and react to the feelings. For example, “The kids don’t like me.” “There are funny noises at night.” What is the feeling being expressed by such statements? 9. Watch the camper. If they pause as if expecting a comment from you, don’t be afraid of a little silence. And don’t start giving advice! 10. Make comments, don’t give advice. For example, if one thinks the kids don’t like him/her, fighting with them won’t solve the problem. Once a decision has been reached, help the camper carry through on his/her decision. Encourage him/her to start immediately, be interested in progress made, and commend him/her as you see indications of effort.

I think most of us say we want to nurture kids in their love of God and his earth, but we all come away from Fowler with so much ourselves - we just fill up with the Spirit while we are here. Aunt Karen

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Take a deep breath and have another cup of coffee! Uncle Scott

getting started

Sunday is an incredibly important day at Fowler. There is much excitement and apprehension in the air. Cabin counselors are meeting their campers for the first time and relationships will begin to form. Knowing the following information will help make Sunday an easier and more enjoyable day.

volunteer staff meeting

1. Name Tags will be on the Suits Hall porch. All volunteers are asked to wear their name tags to help summer staff identify them.

2. It is wonderful if volunteers can join us for morning worship at 10:30 and for lunch afterwards. There is no charge for volunteers for the Sunday lunch.

3. all volunteers will meet at 1:00 p.m. in lakeside lodge. This is a very important time in the life of our temporary community. For an hour we will join with the summer staff in getting to know each other, understanding our roles in the ministry at Fowler, and setting common goals for the week. This meeting will also help get you through the first 24 hours of camp; a tough time for first-time counselors.

if you can’t make this meeting, please indicate by writing or calling camp so we will know when we can expect you.

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Camp FOWler COvenantReview this well before coming to camp. All the kids will hear these rules on Sunday, sign a sheet verifying that they know the rules, and

then you will turn that in to the Nurse.I understand the following about having a SAFE and FuN week at Camp Fowler•The Fowler Safety Plan – French Louie Drill.•Where hazards are (rocks, beach etc.) as I have received a tour of camp.•Where the boundaries are that I may not cross unless with an adult (pass the Chapel, into the campsites).•The “Buddy System” we are to swim AND walk around camp with a buddy (we never walk alone).•That if I have problems during the week I know I can talk to the Director or Assistant Director for help.•That I can’t leave camp or use the phone without the Director’s approval.•That I am not to have electronic devices (cell phone, CD players, game boys, etc.) while at camp.things i Will DO for a fun week at FOWler•That I am to use medicines only under the nurse’s supervision.• Report any injuries to the Nurse.•Wear proper footwear (no flip-flops).•Wear a one-piece bathing suit and other appropriate attire.•Report broken equipment to a Staff person.•Participate in ALL planned activities.

•Report any suspicious animals or bats in my cabin to a Staff person.•Stay with my group on day trips, overnights, and listen to the Staff as they point out things that may be hazardous.

things i Will nOt DO at FOWler•NOT have food in my cabin. •NOT raid other cabins OR be in the cabin area of the opposite sex.•NOT smoke, drink or use drugs.•NOT be in the ARC or on a challenge course without an adult.•NOT swim, canoe, kayak, or sail without a Lifeguard.•NOT vandalize in any way buildings, equipment, or natural surroundings (the graffiti board in my cabin is available.)•NOT be out of cabin before 6:30 a.m.•NOT shower during program time or in the campsite shower.These are covered by staff during the Sunday orientation.

“CanIusethephone?”andOtherQuestionsNo matter how hard we try you will still have questions about how things work at Fowler. The following is an attempt to address some of these very good questions.

At the end of your week, let us know if we missed any!

How early can I let my kids get up?

use your discretion. Campers should not be out of their cabins before 6:30 a.m. No one should be in the center of camp before the 7:30 a.m. wake up call. (There are staff sleeping in this area.)

May my campers use the shower house by the camp site area?

This is for our volunteers, campsite users, and wilderness expedition people only. A better solution is to encourage campers to take shorter, “earth friendly” showers. That way, the hot water will go farther and more campers will be able to use the showers.

I see writing on my cabin wall, does that mean it is okay for my campers to put their names there too?

That is what campers may tell you, but it is never appropriate to deface property. Please help us keep the cabins nice and have your campers refrain from writing on them. There are better ways to be remembered by your friends. If you notice inappropriate writing, please tell the maintenance people and they will cover it.

What do we clean for the “cabin clean-up?”

Essentially, we want the campers to straighten up their things in the cabin. Some basics are: •Sweep the floor •Make sure emergency exit is not blocked •Alternate heads in bunks •Pick up trash •Straighten up area outside cabin, etc.Staff will clean the toilets in your cabin and empty the wastebaskets every day. We have a “clean cabin” award each lunchtime. Try and make this a fun and positive time for your campers.

How much food should I allow in the cabin?

none. The Health Department has issued a rabies bulletin to all camps encouraging them not to allow food that might attract animals in cabin areas. If campers bring or receive food, counselors may store it in bins in Suits Hall.

What if I can’t control my cabin?

Campers sometimes test you for all you are worth. Quite often counselors get frustrated by this. There are a number of disciplinary measures you can take. Some ideas are: •Sitting down with your cabin to talk about what they are doing and covenanting together on appropriate alternatives. •Changing your “trouble maker(s) behavior” by giving them responsibilities (watch out for favoritism.) •A “cabin challenge” like sweeping the pavilion or chapel. •Temporarily switching of responsibility with another counselor who may be able to get through to your kids.

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QuestionsThatDefyCategories

What if I am not comfortable leading the daily “rap-up” times?

The Spirit gives us different gifts. If it is hard for you to lead devotions, feel free to call on one of the summer staffers or on another cabin counselor to help. We do encourage you to stretch your own limits in this area and try to give you appropriate materials to help you lead.

Where can I park my car while I am at camp?

Counselors are encouraged to park in the areas outside of the center of camp. • The speed limit in camp is 5mph. Staff unable to comply with speeding regulations will be asked to hand over their keys. • Campers may not be transported in non-Fowler vehicles.

Where do I mail letters? There is a drop box in the front of Suits Hall (the dining hall). Postcards and stamps can be purchased at the store.

What do I do with recyclable materials?

In each cabin area, and behind Suits Hall there are recycling bins. Fowler recycles all metal, glass and plastics. Help us keep waste down by encouraging your campers to recycle.

Camp store Normal store hours: • Weekdays — 45 minutes after dinner • Saturdays — 9:30 – 11:00 a.m.Campers can buy two food items a day.

Who are Jumpers? Each meal, a cabin (sometimes two) is chosen to come in 1/2 hour early to be the “jumpers.” Their responsibilities include: • Setting the tables and eating their own meal before the rest of the campers arrive • Leading the camp in prayer before the meal • Serving the rest of the camp so no one else has to get up during the meal • Clearing and wiping down the tables after the meal is finished • Separating the waste food so it can be weighed and compostedEvery cabin will have at least one chance to be “jumpers.” Counselors should serve as the host or hostess and direct their campers to insure that all get enough to eat.

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QuestionsaboutHealthandSafetyWhat if I suspect a child is injured or ill?

No unusual observation is too trivial to ignore. Please report any suspicions immediately to the nurse. nOte: if you suspect a case of child abuse, please report it immediately to the nurse or Director.

What is the “Buddy System?”

Each camper is assigned a buddy number on Monday after they have taken their swim test. A “buddy board” is next to the lifeguard stand which has numbers on individual washers. The camper simply puts the washer with his/her buddy number on it with a friend’s before they go into the swimming area. These two (sometimes three) must stay together and watch out for the other while in the water. If the lifeguard(s) call a “buddy check” they quickly join hands and hold them high until the lifeguard makes sure all are accounted. make sure your campers remove their buddy numbers when they are leaving the water to avoid an unnecessary lost swimmer drill. Remember, no lifeguard, = no swimming and never dive from the raft.

Are campers allowed back in the cabin area without an adult?

Good question. The “no” answer is so that no one gets hurt and is without help and so that no one can wrongly be accused of stealing. What we strictly don’t allow is: • Boys in girl’s cabins and vice versa. • Campers in the cabin area when they are supposed to be elsewhere. • Campers entering another cabin without being directly invited by someone from that cabin who is there at that time.Generally, younger campers need more guidance, and it is always best to have an adult in the cabin area. Also, encourage your campers to think ahead so they don’t need to go back to the cabin area.

Are campers allowed back in the cabin area during the after dinner free time?

No. We do not have enough staff to cover all areas of camp while counselors are in their daily meeting. We also want campers to mingle as much as possible this week and by retreating continually to their cabins, they miss out on so much. Campers should stay in the “center of camp” at this time.

What about meals? We eat family-style at Fowler, which means that everyone needs to be considerate of each other. We ask campers to treat the food with respect and that they eat at every meal. Some campers have special diets, and you should try and find that out as soon as you can. Otherwise, if a camper refuses to eat, that means they are sick and should see the nurse.

staFF COnDUCt stanDarDs

Fowler Camp & Retreat Center is strongly committed to ensuring that all campers are, at all times, treated with respect and cared for in safe environments. To support this commitment we, as a children’s camp, begin by stating, we will protect the children in our care from abuse or maltreatment, experimentation, economic exploitation, malnutrition and unsafe environments, and shall bring to account adults who thwart that purpose.

At all times, staff members of Fowler are expected to serve as appropriate role models for our campers and to respect the boundaries and rights of the campers. Any violation of the behavior guidelines set forth in this policy will result in disciplinary action, which may include termination with Fowler. In addition, Fowler will cooperate with legal

authorities and will pursue prosecution of any staff member who engages in an illegal activity with a camper of the agency.

BehaviorGuidelinesThe campers at Fowler are often in need of support, guidance and assistance in resolving the difficulties they are experiencing. All interactions between staff and campers must be directed towards responding to these needs in a caring manner. The following behavior guidelines have been established and will be enforced by Fowler: •At all times, staff are to serve as positive role models for our campers•Staff are to keep campers safe and should not allow campers to become engaged in any activity that could be potentially dangerous to them •Staff are not permitted to hit campers or use physical punishment of any kind •Staff are to use due caution when restraining a camper to avoid injury •Staff are not allowed to threaten campers •Staff should not force a relationship with a camper •Staff are not permitted to flirt with campers, nor let campers flirt with them •Staff are strictly forbidden from engaging in any sexual activity with campers •Staff are to report any sexually provocative behavior by campers to their supervisor •Staff are to refrain from making sexually explicit or suggestive comments to or in front of campers •Staff are to knock and announce themselves when entering bathrooms or cabins •Staff should not sit on a child’s bed when the child is in the bed •Staff are not permitted to engage in horseplay, or overly competitive activities with campers •Staff are not allowed to swear in front of campers or share with them inappropriate remarks about guys, girls, co-workers or other campers •Staff are not allowed to call campers derogatory names or demeaning nicknames •Staff are not allowed to taunt, tease or belittle campers •Staff are not to look to campers for emotional support for themselves or share with them unresolved personal problems •Staff are not to promise to keep a secret with a camper •Staff are not allowed to enter into any business agreement with campers for personal gain •Staff are not to use showers when campers are using showers •Staff are not to be alone with camper in cabin with the door closed

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In addition to the above-mentioned behaviors, there are others that fall into a gray area. Behaviors or situations governed by this guideline include:

• The giving and receiving of gifts to and from campers • Giving hugs to children • Paying special attention to any one camper • Phoning campers while off duty • Sharing specifics of your personal life with campers • Becoming over involved in boyfriend/girlfriend issues with campers • Unduly influencing campers with staff’s own personal beliefs

staff to staff interactionsIt must always be recognized that as we work to create a healthy environment, our campers are not only influenced by their interactions with staff but are also greatly influenced by their observations of the interactions among and between staff. The following behavior guidelines have been established:

• The primary responsibility of staff while at Fowler is to provide care for our campers • The following behaviors are unacceptable: Adult humor, i.e. off color jokes Discussion of staff members’ social lives Flirtatious behavior Taunting, teasing or belittling of other staff Calling other staff demeaning nicknames Horseplay or any other hands-on activity Profanity and sexually explicit or suggestive comments

In summary, all staff members of Fowler are expected to respect our campers, use good judgment at all times and abide by the behavior guidelines outlined above. In addition, should you become aware of a situation, which you feel jeopardizes the safety and well being of a camper, you are to report it immediately to your supervisor so that an appropriate response can be initiated.

In signing this document, I acknowledge that these staff conduct standards have been reviewed with me by my supervisor and that I have received a signed copy. In addition, I understand a signed copy will be placed in my personnel file.

this policy was reviewed on________________________________________

employee________________________________________________________

supervisor_______________________________________________________

level tHree respOnses:

•TakecampertocampDirector before any other level three response and when children defy authority on a continual basis.•Contractwithchildren when other attempts have failed. Guidelines

for contracting-keep it simple-identify the three behaviors to be changed or targeted, have the child participate, what do they need or want, state expected behavior in positive terms, have consequences written into the contract, have rewards, relief, time frames written into the contract, have all parties sign it.•Havethechildcallhis/herparent to tell them what he/she has been doing,

then contract from this position. This is used when camper defies authority and can not keep within limits. This is only done with the Director or Assistant Director’s approval.

level FOUr respOnses:

•Campergoeshome•ThisisdonebytheDirectorafter careful consideration of circumstances.

A common mistake is getting into a power struggle with the camper. Children have a “grown up, coping, reasonable side,” and a “tantrum throwing, regressed, baby-self” side which loves to snare adults into a power struggle. When a child regresses, he feeds his sense of power to get an adult to overreact and drawn into battle. Better at that point for parenting/ counseling mode and not escalate! An analogy is a tug of war. If the child starts to pull the “rope” by acting out, the best reaction you can have is to “let go of the rope” and not grow angrier and more frustrated.

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Discipline issuesHandling discipline issues at camp can often be difficult. All casesare to be handled with extreme care and love for the campers involved.The following are some guidelines for counselors.level One respOnses: • Catch children in the act of doing things “right!” • Use appropriate touch on shoulder/upper back. • Kneel down to make a special point or get through. • giving choices when camper is not doing what’s expected “You can make your bed alone, or I can help you.” • this for that “If you can help me out…I’ll help you with your clean-up.” • reassure when camper is unsure of ability or reluctant to pitch in “I’ll bet you can make a great boondoggle.” • redirect by giving acceptable choice for unacceptable choice. “No you can’t race in here, but if we clean the cabin you can play until we leave for Discovery time.” • state your expectation and detach when camper resists or threatens to not comply.

level tWO respOnses:

• Takecamperasideandlisten/talkwhen camper is having trouble

cooperating, remember to listen and not jump to conclusions.

•

allow consequences for failure when campers are testing limits

(not in case where safety is an issue.)

• Have a chat with entire group

• Do a survey: “How many of you have noticed…?”

• generalize “Sometimes, when we are trying to be a team I see…

Ask for suggestions from the group. • Challenge “I am challenging the Bear Cabin to see if we can clean up in three minutes…”

• Use a special activity to pull group together use when campers are not getting along or morale is low.

• ask a friend of the camper about how to get through to him/her.

• Usetimeouts/cooloffperiods/etc.when camper or group is misbehaving.

• pointers be clear about what brought about the time out, be clear about the

behavior you are looking for (stated positively.) Give credit for a time out

completed satisfactorily, have the child (or group) restate the desired

behavior, give a “vote of confidence.”

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French louieIn compliance with New York State Health Department regulations, Fowler has prepared a safety plan in the event of fire, accident, lost camper, lost swimmer, etc. The retreat center code for all emergencies is “French Louie.”Other safety procedures will require summer staff to react effectively. Volunteers are always to take campers to the Chapel and supervise them there.

LOST CAMPER (under the direction of the Director or designee). 1. Public address system is used by Director or designee to inform everyone. 2. The code is “French Louie” then (name of location for staff to report). 3. The bell at the chapel will be rung without interruption to summon campers and volunteer staff to the chapel. 4. Volunteer counselors assemble campers by cabin and account for all campers. 5. All waterfront areas and watercraft searched by summer staff. 6. All buildings are searched by summer staff. 7. Roads are checked by summer staff. 8. Grounds are checked by summer staff. 9. If needed, the ranger is notified by the Director.10. If needed, local police are called by the Director.11. Campers and volunteers remain at the chapel until dismissed.12. When the camper is found, the announcement is made on the public address system.

LIGHTNING AND THuNDERSTORMS (under the direction of the Director) 1. In the event of lightning and/or thunderstorms, all campers and staff are to be indoors as directed by the Director. 2. In the event lightning strikes a building, all occupants are to proceed to a neighboring building immediately.

GENERAL INFORMATION RELATING TO THE FOWLER SAFETY PLANIn the event of a serious accident or casualty, volunteer staff should refer all questions to the Director or Operations Manager. Should a statement for the press be needed, the appropriate synod employee will be called upon to do so. This will insure that only accurate and proper information is reported.

CAMPERS RuLE OF THuMBIS MY ACTION HuRTING ME?

IS MY ACTION HuRTING ANOTHER OR INTERFERING WITH THE CAMP’S PROGRAM?

IS MY ACTION GLORIFYING GOD?

evening prOgrams sampler

WHOKIDNAPPEDBULLWINKLE?Description: An all-camp clue game.Comments: Cabins get to work together and meet staff & counselors. An adult should accompany younger groups to help keep them moving.

gOlDrUsHDescription: Bandits, gold nuggets, sheriffs, and jail: sounds like an old John Wayne movie!Comments: This has the ability to get too wild if staff aren’t aware. A nice addition is to give campers points for garbage found as well as for gold found. sUnDaY nigHt sUper smasH Description: Initiative gamesComments: This is good for building cabin or group cooperation. REMEMBER SAFETY FIRST! Books like Silver Bullets & Cow Tails and Cobras are excellent resources.

BOMBADIERDescription: Campers travel in cabin groups finding hidden tags with questions on them. They then answer as many questions as they can. There are “bombadiers” out there who will try to freeze them by hitting them with flour socks. If frozen, the group has to call for a “medic” and must do what they ask in order to continue on.Comments: A generally loud and fun time is had by all.

COUnselOr HUntDescription: Cabin groups search for hiding counselors and staff. Each staff/ counselor is assigned a point value and the cabin group who gets the most points wins.Comments: The goal is for people to be hard to find, not impossible. This is not a night off for staff. If they are not found, they should attempt to give subtle clues to their presence. Hiding or looking in buildings is not allowed.

WHite elepHant aUCtiOnDescription: Campers bring a bag full of items from their cabins and are asked to produce different items. Any thing from Apple to Zebra is fair game!Comments: This is one of our “rainy day” options. It will normally be held in the ARC.

sUmmer tHeme: summer “thumbnail “ theme:

Hunting for Hope

mOnDaY Daily Theme: Scripture Suggestions:

Learning Goals:

tUesDaY Daily Theme: Scripture Suggestions:

Learning Goals:

WeDnesDaY Daily Theme: Scripture Suggestions:

Learning Goals:

tHUrsDaY

Daily Theme: Scripture Suggestions:

Learning Goals:

FriDaY Daily Theme:Scripture Suggestions:

Learning Goals:

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stOrY tellingDescription: Campers sit/lie around and listen to stories told and read to them.Comments: This is a great mid-week rainy day activity that has become a “regular” at camp.Java JamDescription: A chance to “hang out” and enjoy snacks and performances.Comments: Sometimes it takes a bit of urging to get things going. You might want to encourage counselors and staff to work with campers early in the week to put a skit or performance together. These can be great, “casual” evenings.instinCts FOr sUrvivalDescription: A game of survival. Campers are herbivores, omnivores, or carnivores. Each animal has to survive by either finding feeding stations (orienteering flags) or tagging other animals and taking one of their life-tags.Comments: This is one of our more “educationally oriented” evening games. It takes some work to set up/clean up and the directions need to be given very clearly so that campers understand. Watch for running in the woods. Twisted ankles are not uncommon.sUnset CanOe paDDleDescription: What better memory of camp than canoeing with friends on a calm evening watching the sun go down while singing songs.Comments: You will have to divide the campers into 2-3 groups. Have staff to man the various areas of a) canoes, b) campfire/s’mores, and c) beach or chapel activities.

It gives me a chance to reflect and give back something that was done for me when I was a youth.

Uncle Peter

I love being here and I wanted to give the campers this summer the same awesome camp experience I had as a camper.

Aunt Saretta

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Stuff about my kids!!

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Special meds, needs, or reminders

Other notes:

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AModelforStudyingtheBibleAdapted by Roger Nishioka from a model by Walter Wink in Transforming Bible Study. Nashville, TN: Abingdon, 1982 (2nd ed. Revised).

1. Open with prayer2. Read the passage Together or individually, read the passage. If there are different translations in the group, read these out loud. As a whole group, discuss any differences and/or similarities.3. Visualize the passage Close your eyes and listen as someone reads the passage again. Try to create a video in your mind of the story. Discuss as a group what people saw, heard, smelled, tasted, and felt during the reading.4. Reconstruct the passage Close your Bibles. From memory, reconstruct the passage by listing the key events on newsprint. What happened first? What happened next? If there are any disputes, check the text. When you think you have finished, check your record with the text to be sure you did not miss anything.5. Discover the context of the passage Talk about the context of the passage as you understand it. What is happening historically at the time of this story? You may need to do some background work in preparation for this part of the process.6. Ask questions Invite the participants to share any questions they have about the passage. Any question is accepted. List these on newsprint. Do not attempt to answer the questions. Simply list them. Skip this step if you are going to present questions you have already prepared.7. Respond to the questions If you listed the group’s questions, go through them now and respond (different from answer) to each of them. It’s fine to leave some questions as questions. It’s also fine to do some research to bring back some responses at a later session. If you prepared questions beforehand, lead a discussion based on your questions. Remember to end the question time by discussing the key questions: •What does the passage tell us about people? •What does the passage tell us about God? •What is God saying to us through this passage?8. Now what?Discuss together how this passage impacts your life. What does this passage have to say to you in your everyday life? How will you be more faithful as a result of our study of this passage?

Emergency Phone Numbers

Fire Department – 548-6603

ambulanceSpeculator - 548-5300Piseco 548-3111 (Panther Mountain, Fall Stream, NTLP Trail)Wells 924-2354 (Triple Lake)

Sheriff – 548-6111

Poison Control – 1-800-222-1222Have Patient Name, substance and know we are in Hamilton County.

Speculator Health Clinic – 548-8155

Nathan Littauer Hospital Gloversville - 725-8621

Forest Ranger, Tom Eakin - 548-4132

Northville Rite Aid (Pharmacy) - 863-6524

Fowler Fax Number - 518-548-8416

Camp Fowler Address: PO Box 131, Speculator, NY 12164 Chi Rho reservations Deb Batcher 518-374-4573

CAMP FOWLER VOLUNTEERS

WILL WORK FOR

FOOD,

SONG,

AND A CUP OF BEN AND JERRYS

Hear, O Israel: The Lord is our God, the Lord alone.You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart,

and with all your soul, and with all your might. Keep these words that I am commanding you today in

your heart.Recite them to your children and talk about themwhen you are at home and when you are away,

when you lie down and when you rise.