Christian Appalachian Project’s summer camps have been serving children in Appalachia for more than 35 years. We are planning for modified in-person camp this summer and will follow all current state and federal recommendations. We expect to need dedicated volunteers and AmeriCorps members, and we hope you can join us! While we don't know exactly what camp will look like this summer, we are committed to answering any challenge presented with creative solutions!
CAP’s summer camps would not be possible without the service of the short-term volunteers who come each June and July. Available placements include:
- AmeriCorps members
We are accepting applications for AmeriCorps members to serve in a variety of roles at our summer camps. Must serve a minimum of six weeks to be eligible. - Camp Counselors
If you are high energy and love the outdoors, we need you to be a hero for kids in need. - Lifeguards or Counselor/Lifeguards
We do a lot of swimming and other water activities, so we need lifeguards to keep our campers safe. If you are not currently certified but are interested in becoming a lifeguard, training may be available. - Medical personnel
We’re looking for RNs, LPNs, and EMTs. - Arts & crafts leaders
Help inspire campers’ creativity by leading our arts & crafts activities. - Photography/Social Media Coordinators
Help our camps' outreach to parents and the public by taking photos at camp and posting to social media. - Floaters and office help
Volunteers are needed to answer phones and help process camper applications.
Volunteers and members are provided with room and board, and may also be eligible for travel reimbursement up to $400. Volunteers serving for six weeks or more may be eligible for scholarship money ($1,311 for student loans or education expenses) or a bi-weekly living allowance of $375.
To be considered as a camp volunteer and/or AmeriCorps member, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Complete an application, including three personal references and a criminal background check.
- Be 18 years old or older. We have no upper age limit.
- Serve for a minimum of three weeks (minimum one week for medical personnel).
- Pass a drug screening upon arrival at camp.
- Nurses (RN and LPN) must have a Kentucky license or be licensed in a state participating in the Nurse Licensure Compact.
Do you want to keep that camp spirit going all year long? We encourage you to visit our one-year volunteer page to apply for the August cohort. Volunteers who choose to work with the camp programs all year long will be able to support local children and youth through tutoring opportunities and as mentors in our teen leadership programs.
SUMMER CAMP FAQ
When is summer camp? What activities do you have?
Camp typically begins in early June and runs through the end of July. Each week brings in a new group of campers for residential or day camp.
Summer Camp activities include canoeing, fishing, arts and crafts, swimming, hiking, camping, and field games. While all the activities are fun for the children, they also provide the opportunity to learn important life skills such as leadership, safety, team building, self-esteem, and respect for others.
How long is the commitment? When should I apply?
Medical personnel may serve for one week or longer and we ask that our other volunteers make a minimum commitment of three weeks.
Who qualifies to serve as medical personnel?
We need RNs and LPNs who are licensed in Kentucky or in a state participating in the Nurse Licensure Compact. We also welcome EMTs.
Do you offer any financial support for volunteers?
Yes! We provide travel assistance of up to $400. Individuals making a commitment of six weeks or longer are eligible for a bi-weekly AmeriCorps living allowance of $375, as well as an education award for student loans and qualified education expenses.
Where will I stay? What about food?
Volunteers stay in dormitories at camp. Meals are provided when camp is in session, and volunteers have access to the kitchen on weekends.
