Staff
The Best Investment
If people matter to you, like they matter to God; if you desire change, growth, purpose, wisdom, challenge, inspiration, motivation, and a stronger faith, then it may be time to invest yourself in a life-altering summer camp experience. The returns of this investment in your character and in the lives of the youth that you will touch will last into eternity.
The Best Summer
And by the way, you’re going to have a blast doing it. Heroes Wanted For Unique Ministry Opportunities. If you’re looking for a summer job that lets you influence and minister to others while having fun, we have the opportunity for you. Wonposet Summer Camp is the perfect place for young men and women of character to impact the lives of campers. The structure of our program is different than most.
Building Relationships
Through our program, we connect you with the same small group of kids 24 hours a day for their entire stay. Instead of teaching activities, your job is to build relationships. The power in your evangelism and discipleship lies in the lifestyle you show them throughout the course of each day. Bible studies are a part of it, but can you model Christ in the small things 24/7 through the "I'm Third Life"?
Perfect People?
We are not looking for perfect people. However, we are seeking young people with a passion for knowing the perfect character of Christ and being transformed by it. We treat our staff as part of the mission of growth we are called to and not a means to an end. We want to be a part of your life, not just your summer.
Online Form
Wonposet Camps Staff Application
Read policy sheet before filling out application Fill out application completely Attach Photo to Application Personal/ Telephone Interview Required
DON'T CONTINUE YOUR APPLICATION UNTIL YOU HAVE READ ALL OF THIS CAREFULLY! YOU MUST UNDERSTAND AND AGREE WITH IT COMPLETELY TO CONTINUE!
The Wonposet Staff is a family of committed Christians who are excited about seeing Jesus Christ become a reality in the lives of youth. This is accomplished in an environment of outdoor sports and adventure experiences because of God’s mighty power within us and each staff member’s love for youth. It truly is a summer full of fun and adventure!
POLICY: Jesus Christ is glorified in everything we do! Therefore, we stand firm on His Word and His life’s example. Legalism is not the object, but kids need to see that we are living examples of an exemplary way of life.
1. Our Staff does not condone, or personally use drugs, alcohol, or tobacco ("chewing and dipping" included), either on duty or off duty. We ask for and expect complete commitment on this! "If anyone of you should cause one of the least of these to stumble, it would be better for you to be cast into the river with a millstone around your neck." Luke 17:2 Can you represent (by your words and actions) this lifestyle to the youth?
2. Integrity, loyalty, and honesty: You will be happy to be a part of ministry where all members are loyal to each other, Wonposet is a unique place, as you will surely find. We trust each other here like a real family should. Occasionally a camper or even a fellow staff member will break a Camp policy. Your first line of loyalty is to God. Your second line of loyalty is to us. All staff members agree to immediately report any deviation of the Camp’s rules, policies, and practices by campers or fellow staff members to the Director for prayerful and loving consideration and action on their behalf. In signing our contract, you will be giving your word that you will bring your knowledge of a breach of policy to a member of the Camp Leadership team where together we will work out a solution that will bring that person closer to Christ. When dealt with openly and considerately, God always uses these situations to produce growth in the life of each person concerned.
GENERAL APPEARANCE: The Wonposet staff conveys a clean-cut "All American" image to the campers and parents. Staff members may not have punk hairstyles or shaved heads. Men may not wear beards or long hair (may not be below the ears). The only jewelry that may be worn at Camp is a watch (exception: only "stud" earrings for the ladies). All other body piercing must be removed prior to Camp arrival. You may not publicly display a tattoo while at Camp. Ladies are to wear modest clothing, modest one (1) piece swimsuits, and no "short" shorts.
OUR GOAL IS TO BUILD OUR STAFF: Our Leadership staff is prepared each summer to lead Bible studies for our staff. We want to do all we can, not only to equip you for the summer, but for your life and future ministry. Your Camp experience is a golden key to your personal spiritual growth and your ability to lead others more effectively in the exciting days ahead.
SPEAKING IN TONGUES: 1st Corinthians 12 and Romans 12 describe the proper usage of spiritual gifts in the church. A. The gifts are given sovereignty as God desires. I Corinthians 12:18 B. The gifts are given for the common good and to glorify God (not self-edification). I Corinthians 12:7 C. And in the case of tongues "If anyone speaks in a tongue (it should be) by two or at the most three and (each) in turn and let one interpret. But if there is no interpreter, let him keep silent in the church." I Corinthians 14:27-28 We definitely believe in the gifts of the Spirit and the relevance of the gifts today when used in accord with Scripture. The gift of tongues, however, when used immaturely or unscripturally, as well as flesh reactions to it, has brought much confusion and division in the Body. At Wonposet, we have prayerfully chosen to leave all usage of, teachings of, and discussions of tongues to the local church. Above all, at Camp, our desire is that kids see Jesus by the way our staff is unified in our love of God and love for each other.
VALUABLES: You should not bring anything valuable to Camp. We will not be held responsible for lost or stolen items.
GUESTS: Although we would like everyone to share in the Wonposet experience we are unable to accommodate guests without prior approval from the Director.
PHONES/E-MAIL/FAXES/COMPUTER: Wonposet Leadership will do their best to accommodate your needs although the use of phones, emails and faxes are limited. Staff is not to use personal cellular phones except on their time-off.
DATES and LENGTHS OF SERVICE: Staff will serve for various periods of time from three weeks to fifteen weeks from May 15 to the end of August. All staff are required to attend a one week staff orientation and serve a two week probation period.
TIME OFF: Wonposet is a full-time ministry , however, all staff are allowed 1 day (24 hours) and 2 nights (from lights out to 1 am) off with pay per two weeks of service. Scheduling of time off is in the sole discretion of the Camp Director.
SIGNING A CONTRACT: After we accept your signed application we will notify you of your dates of service. You will then be asked to sign a contract. Upon signing, you will be contractually obligated to complete your term at Wonposet.
WE EXPECT IT! "…Let your yes be yes and your no be no…" James 5:12
IF YOU AGREE WITH ALL STATEMENTS ABOVE, CLICK HERE
Campus Rep
Campus Representatives
Each year the camp directors select one or more campus representatives for each campus they visit. The Campus Rep encourages, supports, serves, and leads past, present, and future Wonposet staff. By equipping each Campus Rep with basic essentials such as posters to hang around Campus, camp brochures & applications for prospective families, and many staff applications to pass out to potential summer staff.... Our Campus Reps represent Wonposet as the awesome ministry that it truly is.
Select a Campus from the list Below:
Brownsville School of Ministry
Gordon College
James Madison University
Medical College of Virginia
Messiah College
Southeastern University
University of Virginia
Virginia Common Wealth University
Washington State University
FAQs
Why should I apply?
Have you ever noticed that when you're serving others, you yourself are blessed? We want to train, support, equip, encourage, stretch, empower, motivate, challenge, prepare, inspire, and love our staff.. . . and we do!
We show young people and one another our love by serving them. This is hard work, but it's worth it. You'll be challenged, and we're committed to seeing you grow.
We can promise you that whatever career field you find yourself 10 years from now you'll be a better person because of your time at Wonposet. If a lawyer, you'll be a better one because of your service here, if a school teacher, a better one. If a hospital administrator, a better one. That's our promise to you.
Another promise is life-long friends. You wouldn't believe how many staff members/college students have told us they had the best summer of their life here. Many return year after year. You'll find more life long friends at Camp Wonposet then you'll know what to do with.... Plan on it !
Lastly, we need to tell you about our location. It just wouldn't be fair if we didn't. God put some extra effort into this place. The Berkshire Hills of Western Connecticut and Bantam Lake is just plain hard to beat for a camp site. Even National Geographic Magazine thought so when they featured the camp in a three page foldout.
Where are the campers coming from?
The campers come from areas throughout New England.
What does a normal session or week of camp with the students consist of?
The terms last 6 nights and 7 days. We have great counselor to camper ratio giving you time to build relationships that will go on for years to come. You can look at our activities page and see the many activities we do during a camp session.
Can I go to church each Sunday?
Yes, but only if that is your day off. We do have the Life Program each night and other devotional times that will feed you spiritually throughout the week.
Could you describe the counselor’s duties?
The responsibilities are rather simple but require a tremendous amount of focus. Basically, you are assigned to a girls or boys cabin where you stay as a missionary, along with a few other missionaries, and asked to give all the love of Christ you can to that cabin.You are Jesus to the young people your with that week. . The “I’m Third Life” becomes a reality; God First, Others second, I’m Third. You will discover a new you and who you really are. It is truly as much a learning experience for you as it is for the children.
Your daily responsibilities consist of doing a morning devotion and prayer with the children, then spending the rest of the day with them. Swimming, boating, parasailing with them, hiking, the High Ropes course, eating with them and so forth. You are with them pretty much 24/7. This gives you the opportunity for ministry moments. We believe that ministry normally does not occur in a planned scenario. We believe that creating the proper environment, such as camp, opens the door daily to many ministry moments that these children remember for a lifetime, we call them "Landmark Moments".
When young people are asked what the number one thing is they want from those they love, or from others in their circle of influence, it's TIME. That's what we give them and that's why the memory of the friendships made last a lifetime.
How long can I stay?
Certainly the Wonposet schedule is a factor here, but you can stay as long or short as you like. Your length of days will, of course, determine your responsibilities given. Every person must fill out an application, please note how much time you would like to stay. Wonposet Camps is always flexible as everyone’s schedules are different.
How much will I get paid?
After the application process, your salary is offered and set. Since salaries vary according to experience and responsibilities here at camp, it is difficult to state a definite salary. Along with your salary, you will receive room and board. Although the salary is not as high as we would like, we know that it is among the highest in the camp industry.
Will I have time off?
Yes.
Where does the staff come from?
Wonposet Camps Staff members come from colleges and Universities from around the country.
How many staff members do you hire each year?
Though the number varies, approximately 40-60.
What’s the age of your staff members?
We have a variety of ages. The majority are college students. 18-26.
Will I have access to a computer?
Yes; however, it will only be available during your off times.
Will I have access to a phone?
Yes.
Will I be able to receive mail and send mail?
Yes. You'll receive your own mailbox upon arrival.
Can I have visitors?
Only with advanced leadership approval.
How’s the food at camp?
GREAT! Wonposet Camps is known for its great meals. Compliments abound from our campers and guest over the delicious meals and desserts we serve. Example; Fresh ground beef burgers on barbecue day. None of that frozen stuff.
What’s the weather like?
The summer days are generally hot. The 80’s to 90’s. In the evenings the weather can drop as much at 10-15 degree’s cooling off the night.
What kind of clothes should I bring?
Summer weather “cool” clothes. Bring along a wind breaker or light jacket. See List.
Will I need some cash?
Yes. Many of the staff do Wal-Mart runs and go to McDonalds, etc. Also, the camp sells T-shirts and other small items that you may find of interest.
