What Skills Do I Need to be a Camp Escapades Volunteer?

Volunteer and Staff registration will open in April 2012. Below you will find general information about our volunteer program.

Camp Escapades is considered one of the most popular youth volunteer activities in the South Bay. Many of our camp volunteers sign up year after year to participate in a rewarding and enjoyable opportunity to become a "white shirt" that serves as a camper's buddy over the three weeks of camp. Volunteers are over the age of 13 and receive an extensive orientation as to what they can expect during their time at Camp Escapades. Volunteers not only enjoy a meaningful experience that gives back to the community but they also enjoy opportunities to build better leadership and social skills. Many of our youth volunteers are from South Bay middle and high schools, volunteer organizations and summer groups. To get a better idea of what the "white shirts" usually do on a typical camp day, click here for "A Day in the Life as a White Shirt".

Camp Escapades 2011 was held August 1st - August 19th at Torrance Elementary School located at 2125 Lincoln Avenue in Torrance.
Map to Torrance Elementary School.

The hours for Camp Escapades staff and volunteers are as follows:

Full day shifts:

Paid staff (Co-leaders and Counselors): 7:45-3:00
Volunteers: 8:00-3:00

Half day shifts:

Paid staff (Co-leaders and Counselors): 7:45-12
Volunteers: 8:00-12:00

FAQ's for Camp Volunteers

How old do I have to be to volunteer for Camp Escapades?
Volunteers must be at least 13 years old by the start of camp.

What skills do I need to be a volunteer?
PTN definitely wants volunteers who are energetic, friendly and eager to help our young campers have the best summer experience. Yet, we will offer a comprehensive training session for all of our camp volunteers.

Can I register to volunteer for Camp Escapades online?
Yes. Online registration is now open!

What volunteer forms must be completed?
TB TEST: All volunteers must have a valid tuberculosis (TB) test on file. Please note, a TB test is valid for 4 years after the test date. If you are new to camp or have had a TB test done within the last four years, you will need to submit this paperwork prior to camp starting. If you have already turned in a valid TB test within the last four years you do not need to re-submit this paperwork unless you are specifically asked for it.

ADDITIONAL PAPERWORK: Additional paperwork (liability and code of conduct) will be sent to each volunteer in an e-mail that contains their group assignment. Volunteers will be expected to download the paperwork, sign it, and either mail it to PTN before camp starts or bring it with them to orientation.

What are the time requirements to volunteer at camp?
We require a minimum of a full week commitment (Monday thru Friday) to volunteer, with variability as to the shifts we offer. Full day shifts run from 8 until 3:00. A very limited number of half day shifts are also available in the morning from 8-12. There are also mandatory meetings following clean-up on Tuesdays and Fridays (12-12:30 for morning shifts and approximately 3:00 - 3:30 for full day shifts).

How are my hours recorded and can I get a copy of them?
Hours are recorded based on attendance. A volunteer must be present at the time attendance is taken at the beginning, middle and end of each shift in order to receive full credit. For a complete explanation, see the link below titled "Tracking of Volunteer Hours". Once camp has ended, all hours will be put into our system and we will generate a Verification of Hours letter which will be sent to each volunteer in the mail. Letters are anticipated to be mailed on October 1st.

Important Links for 2011
Code of Conduct
Volunteer Liability Waiver
Tracking of Volunteer Hours
A Day in the Life of a White Shirt
Safety Guidelines
Performance Evaluations
Volunteer and Staff Job Descriptions
Volunteer Tips and Social Skills
Facilitating Communication
What to Bring to Camp
Map to Torrance Elementary School
Donation Wish List