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Jr. Leaders
Training Manual
2014
Manual #: _________
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I.
INTRODUCTION……………………………………..5
II.
THE JUNIOR LEADER……..……………………..... 5
III.
ROLE OF THE JUNIOR LEADER IN CAMP……... 6
IV.
TYPICAL DAY OUTLINE………………………… 12
V.
AM/PM JOB ASSIGNMENTS……………………..16
VI.
SUPERVISION TIPS……………………………….17
VII.
ROLE OF THE JUNIOR LEADER ON THE BUS. 19
VIII.
CODE OF CONDUCT……………………………… 20
IX.
WEEKLY EVALUATIONS……………………….... 32
X.
VACATION TIME AND ABSENCES……………… 32
XI.
INVITATION TO RETURN………………………… 33
XII.
RECOMMENDATIONS AND COMMUNITY SERVICE ..29
XIII.
HEALTH AND SAFETY………………………..29
________________________________________________________________________
This manual must be returned before your last day. A $15.00 fee will be charged for all un-returned manuals.
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I.
INTRODUCTION
IT IS OUR BELIEF THAT EVERY MEMBER OF OUR LEADERSHIP TEAM IS ESSSENTIAL
TO THE ACHIEVEMENT OF OUR CAMP GOALS AND OBJECTIVES.
The entire staff and camper Leaders in Training must work together in common purpose to
achieve a successful summer for all.
The information contained in this manual regarding
policies, practices and philosophies basic to the morale and spirit of the camp staff is of great
importance in providing the camper with the most valuable camping experience possible.
This manual will answer many questions you may have so please read it carefully and refer to it
each week during the summer when you are assigned a new group and new responsibilities.
II.
THE JUNIOR LEADER
The Junior Leader is a mature young adult who is an essential participant in the completion of
the camp program. You have been selected to learn and experience in a camp situation; you
will develop new skills and utilize skills you already possess while working with children. As a
Junior Leader you will also have the opportunity to make new friends and re-kindle the old. You
will have the opportunity to work with the camp administrators, counselors, specialists and
younger campers throughout the summer.
III.
ROLE OF THE JUNIOR LEADER IN CAMP
RESPONSIBILITIES
At this time in your life you have the opportunity to seek more responsibility at home and in the
community outside your home. At Cali Camp at Big Rock Ranch you have agreed to carry out
responsibilities to yourself, the camp, the campers, the administration and the specialists &
counselors. The Junior Leader should take on the challenge to demonstrate talents, skills and
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the desire to teach and work with children. It is important to establish goals for yourself
regarding what you would like to gain from the Cali Camp at Big Rock Ranch experience.
Believe in your goals and yourself and carry them out to the best of your ability.
The Campers are the reason we are all at camp; therefore they are your first priority at all
times. The Junior LEADER who is a friend to the camper, listens to ideas, problems and stories
will be the one who receives the rewards of working with children. Try to remember what it was
like to be a young child, a first-time camper. Most important, keep an open mind and be
attentive to the many reasons for a camper's actions and reactions in any given situation. The
caring attitude you have for children will be sensed by the camper and returned to you in may
ways; with a smile, a comment, a hug or a hand-made gift.
Your responsibility to the counselor is to be his\her co-worker and work in harmony. The
counselor is counting on you to be on time, be there for the campers and carry out your camp
duties (with a smile). In return, and as you demonstrate the desire, you will receive opportunities
to lead the group in games, songs and free time activities. Remember that you are in a training
environment; therefore, you must sometimes be the one to get the equipment, drinks, etc. Don't
hesitate to take the initiative and ask to plan something for or with the group. Counselors
will welcome and encourage such actions.
INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS
A competent counseling staff is the most effective tool we have in making a child's camp
experience both happy and positive. It is imperative that our staff, Senior, Assistant and our
Junior Leaders, work together in common purpose if a successful summer is to be assured.
Communication between the Junior Leaders and Staff (both Senior & Assistant) is the key to
success! We must all be ready to openly share our expectations, goals, concerns and fears
from the very start of the summer.
THE JUNIOR LEADER'S ROLE IN CAMP
Our Junior Leaders work in an advanced camper capacity as a valuable helper to the senior
counselor or specialist while learning valuable leadership skills and techniques from each senior
staff member with whom they work. Junior Leaders have a unique opportunity to observe many
different Senior Staff during the summer; this will be a valuable time for the Junior Leader to
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learn counseling skills, try out communication techniques and receive some philosophic tidbits
from each Senior Staff member with whom they have worked.
Senior Staff are expected to be positive role-models and mentors for each junior leader with
whom they work.
Whenever possible the Junior Leader should be actively involved as a
co-counselor and given responsibilities in the areas of decision making and leadership. The
junior leader is not to be the "gopher" or "servant” or “slave” of the senior staff member and/or
always given the menial tasks that the senior staff member doesn't enjoy. Junior leaders are in
a learning role and need to be given different and challenging opportunities if they are to grow.
Very often a junior leader may actually have more " Cali Camp" experience than the senior staff
person with whom they are working.
The most successful relationships have resulted when
senior and junior leaders work cooperatively as a team for the common good of the younger
campers and not as two separate individuals.
JUNIOR LEADER ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES
In addition to their group or specialty area responsibility Junior Leaders are also assigned a
weekly duty which may take place in the morning, during lunch or snacks. This responsibility
may require the Junior Leader person to be away from their group for a short period of time. It is
imperative that the Junior Leader communicate this need to their senior staff member that they
will be apart from the group for a short time, so as not to leave the Counselor "hanging" and
wondering where the Junior Leader has gone
THE COUNSELOR, ASSISTANT STAFF AND THE JUNIOR LEADER’S ARE
ROLE-MODELS!
In striving to create a harmonious working atmosphere the Counselor, Assistant Staff and Junior
Leader must work as a team keeping in mind that:
(1)
The Counselor, Assistant and Junior Leader are effective role-models for the group; the
campers will admire and respect the Junior Leaders and Assistants nearly as much as
the counselor of the group.
(2)
The Counselor is essential to the formation and training of the Assistant and Junior
Leader; many qualities which the Counselor possesses, as well as the decisions the
counselor makes in performing his job, are valuable learning opportunities for the
Assistant and Junior Leader.
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Cali Camp at Big Rock Ranch Administrators have offered the Junior Leader a Leadership
opportunity because we feel that these individuals can live-up to our expectations and
responsibilities of the job (unless the Junior Leader actually proves to us otherwise). Counselors
should recognize this and accept positive in-put, creative thinking, and Junior Counselor initiative
as a real addition to their group. Offering the Junior Leader sharing role in planning group
activities and in creating your group's meaningful summer is a most effective way of working
side-by-side.
JUNIOR LEADER EVALUATIONS
The Junior Leaders are in a special camper training / learning program; therefore, an evaluation
process which evaluates their progress is essential. Senior Staff members are required to
complete weekly Junior Leader evaluations and turn them into the Junior Leader’s supervisor.
The evaluation may be discussed with the Junior Leader if the counselor feels comfortable. The
best and most informative method of evaluation is a combination of both open discussion and
written comment which precisely explains the incident considered, the positive and negative
qualities of the Junior Leader and suggested alternative methods of approaching problems at
hand. This is a valuable teaching tool, use it wisely and appropriately.
COUNSELOR, ASSISTANT & JUNIOR LEADER DIFFERENCE OF OPINIONS
Communication is the best way of dealing with a clash of opinions -- talk about it, work it
through, and then solve the problems as a team. This may not always be possible, but should
be the first step in negotiation.
The primary concern and first priority of Counselor, Assistant
and Junior Leader is the safety of the younger campers in the day camp environment. If a
difference of opinion does arise regarding some facet of camp or camp philosophy the
appropriate course of action would be:
(1)
Assure the safety of the children and make sure that there is not a threatening or
dangerous situation at hand. If it is imperative that you have a discussion and need
privacy ask you supervisor to assist you in the supervision of the group.
(2)
DEALING DIRECTLY WITH EACH OTHER IS THE MOST IMPORTANT ASPECT!
Talking behind people’s backs is “gossip” and Cali Camp at Big Rock Ranch has a
Zero tolerance for gossip of any kind. If you have a problem with someone you
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need to deal with the person directly and not talk bad about the person to others.
Other people can not solve your problems. Only the two of you should be involved.
The staff member and the Junior Leader involved should share their feelings and ideas
regarding the incident; do this in private if necessary and definitely away from the group of
campers. Do not leave the area or leave the campers alone.
(3)
If no adequate solution or remedy to the problem can be reached between you, consult
with your Team Leader or Camp Director and set up a meeting or time together. Inform
him/her of the situation and they will work through the difficulty with you.
WEEKLY ROTATION
To gain experience working with various age levels, Junior Leaders are assigned to different
groups or specialty areas each week. This will provide you with an increased ability to adapt to
different social situations and with the experience of observing many Senior Staff's leadership
styles from which to base your own style. There may be some special circumstances where a
certain specialty area i.e. horseback riding may require extra expertise thus Junior Leaders with
the expertise and knowledge required may be able to spend more than just one week in the
specialty area. Staying for more than one week is based on your behavior, evaluation and ability
to assist the specialists. Junior Leaders are also going to have the opportunity to assist in the
kitchen for a week during the summer.
GROUP / SPECIALTY AREA SPECIAL REQUESTS
You may want the opportunity to work with a specific group, counselor or specialty area
therefore; you will have the opportunity to request certain groups during the course of the
summer. Requests will be taken into consideration and honored as often as possible. Requests
will be met depending on your past evaluations and behavior. Please make the request by
Wednesday the prior week you wish to work with a certain group.
LUNCH BREAK
The Lunch break is a privilege. Many camps do not provide their staff with a lunchtime break
away from the campers. You may take your break on the main lawn, or by the pool. All other
areas are off limits (closed) during this time, including the First Aid Treatment office.
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OVERNIGHTS
Junior Leaders are selected to attend camp overnights by a ratio of one Junior Leader to 10
young campers and also upon your evaluations and the completion of your responsibilities. Your
responsibilities during an overnight will be similar to those given you during the day.
HELPFUL TIPS
1.
Be aware of future activities and plan ahead. Remind campers of upcoming events.
Participate in all special activity and dress-up days to the best of your ability.
2.
Camp is a social place, but remember that there is a time and a place for socializing-during your lunch break and after camp. Keep asking yourself, "Why am I here?"
3.
Stay with your group! If the counselor needs you he\she should not have to try to
locate you amongst 600 people.
4.
Camp is a social place, but remember that there is a time and a place for socializing-during your lunch break and after camp. Keep asking yourself, "Why am I here?"
5.
Think ahead... Anticipate when a counselor may need your assistance and offer your
services before the request is made.
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Camp is a social place, but remember that there is a time and a place for socializing-during your lunch break and after camp. Keep asking yourself, "Why am I here?"
7. Be encouraging and enthusiastic for all activities, songs, skits and dress-up days.
Remember, the more you put into camp the more you will receive. If you don't
participate, then why should the campers?
8. Camp is a social place, but remember that there is a time and a place for socializing-during your lunch break and after camp. Keep asking yourself, "Why am I here?"
9. Do you get the constructive suggestion? Get it and you will go far!
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IV.
Junior Leader - TYPICAL CAMP DAY - Outline
I.
MORNING ARRIVAL: 9:00am- 9:15am
Busses arrive
Bus Counselors, Assistant’s or Junior Leaders escort the 3, 4 and 5 year olds to the front 2
tables in the lunch area & bring new campers to the back of the stage.
Check the Junior Leader bulletin board for group and am/pm responsibility assignments.
If you are buying lunch, do it in the morning after you have dropped off the young campers.
Lunch costs $6.00 for all Junior Leaders if you buy it in the morning and full price if you
have to buy it at lunch time. You must pay on the day you want lunch, no credit is available.
The Snack Shack is open to everyone, but remember you are expected to wait in line with
the younger campers and be a good example. Also – if you are assigned to supervise an
area in the morning, waiting in a long line will keep you from being at your supervision area,
so please make it quick or get a friend to get you something and report to your assigned
location.
DAILY DIRECTIVES:
Daily directives will be in a box by the mailboxes. Please read it thoroughly, because the
directive explains special events / contests / schedules & announcements.
ROUND-UP:
9:15am -9:30am
When the whistle blows everyone, both campers, junior leaders and all staff, come to lunch
area.
Make sure you check in with the Junior Leader Team Leader each day so they know you
are here.
Go to your assigned group table and hang out with your group.
Talk to the Counselor(s) of the group you are working with and go over the activities for the
day.
Ask what you can do to help them. (this will impress them tremendously)
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CIRCLE TIME: 9:30am – 9:45am
Go with your assigned group and spread yourself out in the circle. Talk with campers and
assist with whatever the counselors need for you to do.
MORNING ACTIVITY PERIODS: 9:45am-12:00pm
Participate and help supervise the group throughout the day. The best way to get to know
the campers and staff is to get involved in the activities with them. Play with them, help
them, take an interest in them. This will bring you many personal rewards.
LUNCH PROCEDURES: 12:00pm– 12:45pm
If you have lunch service you are to be at the cantina at 11:45 sharp (no exceptions!!) Be
sure to tell your counselor that you have lunch service and that you have to leave a few
minutes before noon to get there on time.
If you do not have lunch duty: Counselors & Junior Leaders help children open up their
lunches and get the campers situated. Please make sure they get milk or water from the
beverage cart.
Return extra water jugs, milk cartons and cups to cart. Before you go on your lunch break.
Double check, make sure that every camper has a lunch and is eating.
If a child does not have a lunch please take him or her to the front of the stage for a lunch
pass given by Camp Director / Assistant Director.
Junior Leaders may line up for lunch once you have been dismissed. Let any campers
who have not lined up go in front of you.
You may ONLY eat your lunch on the main lawn.
All activities are closed during lunch time.
The Upper Program office, main office, equipment shed, all classrooms, FIRST AID
TREATMENT OFFICE and parking lots are all OFF LIMITS DURING LUNCH.
SMOKING IS NOT ALLOWED FOR ANY JUNIOR LEADER- IT IS AGAINST THE LAW.
IF YOU ARE CAUGHT SMOKING, YOU WILL BE DISMISSED FROM CAMP IMMEDIATELY.
NO IF’S ANDS OR BUTTS!
When you hear the whistle blow clean up your area where you ate and please come back
promptly!!!! Anticipate (think ahead) and be on your way as the whistle is blowing. You
know what time you need to be back. Surprise everyone and come back early.
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AFTERNOON ACTIVITY PERIODS: 12:45pm- 3:00pm
Always check the daily directive to make sure that you are aware of any special programs
and time changes. Be sure to keep up the good work and be involved with all the activities.
SNACK TIME: 3:00pm-3:15pm
JL's assigned to Snacks arrive at the Cantina at 2:45 to help set-up the snack.
As always please inform your counselor that you have a PM responsibility.
Communication is key.
Each Junior Leader is entitled to one (1) snack.
DISMISSAL: 3:15pm to the busses, 3:30pm DEPARTURE
Stay with your group until the group is dismissed. You are dismissed to your busses at the
same time your group is. This is very important because your counselor will most likely be a
bus driver or bus counselor who will be dismissed first. They are dismissed first so they can
pick up the bus notebook, bus phone and possibly the youngest campers in the front of the
lunch area. You need to stay with your group and supervise them in the lunch area after
the drivers have been dismissed. You will be dismissed with the campers you are sitting
with. Please do not leave early. We need your assistance with the campers.
Please discuss with your driver and bus counselor on who will be picking up the youngest
campers on the bus, PRIOR to doing so. If they have already gone by then you may help.
When your group is dismissed go directly to your bus. Help the supervisor to watch the
children and talk to them about their day. Do not socialize in the middle of the parking lot,
this can be very dangerous with the cars coming in and out. We need everyone, all staff,
junior leaders and younger campers to stay on their busses to ensure a prompt
departure. You may not go home on a friend’s bus.
ON THE BUS: 3:30pm-4:15pm
On your way home the campers will be tired, so play quiet games with them and chat
about the days events and the activities to come. Talk to them about what’s happening
in camp tomorrow or next week. Be sure not to ignore the campers on your way home.
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V.
EXTRA RESPONSIBILITY ASSIGNMENTS
Your responsibilities throughout the day are extremely important to the overall operation of the
camp. Every week you will be assigned a new group and morning supervision area, you may
also be given lunch and/ or snack duty as well. If you are having a difficult time with an assigned
area, please talk to the Junior Leader’s Team Leader.
The following is a list of assigned areas and descriptions. Please familiarize yourself with the
responsibilities and review the procedures each week for the new responsibility. There will be a
weekly assignment chart posted on the Junior Leader bulletin board. Each Director and Staff
Team Leader will also have this information in his\her notebook. If you are unable to perform
your assignment due to an out-of-camp trip, beach trip, or special circumstance, please inform
the Junior Leader’s Team Leader the day before so that a substitute can be assigned in your
place.
AM DUTIES
Welcome Team - It is the Junior Leaders responsibility to escort all new campers to the
stage and the 3,4 and 5 year old campers to the front tables in the lunch area. The
Welcome Team will escort his/her campers from his/her bus and then return to the bus
bench to escort other children to the appropriate location.
LUNCH
Report to Cantina at 11:45pm SHARP or 15 minutes prior to the start of lunchtime (check
for special schedules daily). Assist with lunch set-up (Milk,Water,Ice). Help serve lunch
as instructed by food service personnel. Everyone pays for his or her own lunch at
Cali Camp at Big Rock Ranch. Please do not give away food to your friends or take
food yourself.
SNACKS
Report to the Cantina at 2:45 SHARP or 15 minutes prior to the end of the 6th
period.
Assist in serving snacks to staff (who will distribute snacks to the
campers). Campers are not allowed to come to the back for snacks. Please do not
take extras for yourself or for friends.
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AFTER YOU HAVE COMPLETED YOUR JOB ASSIGNMENT CHECK IN WITH
THE JUNIOR LEADER TEAM LEADER
VI.
SUPERVISION TIPS
GENERAL SUPERVISION
Responsibilities for Supervision – What to look for when supervising campers:
A. Campers stay together in groups at Cali Camp at Big Rock Ranch and rotate
together from activity to activity with their counselor(s), assistants and junior
Leaders.
B. It is the staff member’s responsibility to keep the group together. As a
Junior Leader your eyes are valuable too. Have eyes in the back of your
head and watch for wanderers.
C. Be careful when walking from one activity to another that campers stay
with you and don’t stop off at another activity that looks exciting. Buddying
them up works well. Give them a task like a topic to interview each other
about on the way. This technique helps them to meet and make new
friends.
D. Count when you leave an activity and then again when you get to the next
activity.
E. It is a good idea to have one staff member at the front of the group and one
at the back for stragglers and one in the middle.
F. When supervising campers listen for children who are being critical of each
other, bullying each other or using language that is inappropriate at camp.
Bullies are sneaky. Know your campers personalities. Know and always
try to split up “in-crowd / out-crowd” clicques in your group by buddying
campers up with new people. Set up daily, planned opportunities for
campers to get to know new people. Buddy yourself up with campers.
G. Remind campers of the “No Put-Down Zone” continuously. Commit to
handling every single put-down with a conversation with the culprit in
private. Utilize walking to another activity sometimes to set up the camper
you want to talk to as your buddy. Remind them about how it feels to be
left out, how it feels to be made fun of and tell them of your zero tolerance
for it.
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H. Compliment campers who are being nice, kind, good friends by pointing it
out publicly.
I. At Cali Camp at Big Rock Ranch we play with campers! Cali Camp at
Big Rock Ranch is not a spectator sport. We don’t sit and throw out the
ball here. Times when counselors are not involved are dangerous times
for campers. Bully’s pick times when counselors aren’t paying attention to
do the most damage.
J. When you go to a specialty area the specialist’s job is to teach the activity
and the counselor, assistant and junior leaders job is to deal with the
camper supervision and behavior. You know Johnny can not sit by Billy,
you know what happened last period, etc.
K. Take complete responsibility for your campers at all times, whether it is in
the lunch area or at an activity area.
When in the lunch area please sit down with your campers at the table when
possible so that the campers behind you can see.
PARKING LOT SUPERVISION
There is much concern about crossing the parking lot when you and your group are going to
and from the grass playfields. Please keep in mind that traffic on the parking lot is constant
and that the only way you can reach the playfields is by going across the parking lot.
You must always be on the alert for the following:
*
Busses being moved to and from the fueling area.
*
*
Commercial trucks making deliveries.
Parents coming to and leaving camp (always seem to be in a hurry).
*
Employees from the weekend picnic company entering & leaving.
*
Camp buses going and coming back from out of camp trips.
*
Tractor crossing the parking lot to the disposal.
When you approach the parking lot oust past the steep driveway) STOP & LINE UP YOUR
CAMPERS.
*
Have one staff member leading and the other at the back.
*
Keep campers in a single or double line moving quickly & quietly.
*
Ask campers to be on the alert for dangers that might arise.
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*
Walk along the perimeter and follow the yellow line that is drawn on the parking
lot in front of the buses.
*
Do not allow campers to enter or touch the vehicles.
*
Do not stop to talk to mechanics or maintenance persons while leading &
supervising your campers. (Remember the shop is off limits to all campers &
staff)
*
Do not walk on the Old Topanga Cyn. Rd. at anytime.
*
To go to the upper playfield bridge. Use the dirt road which turns to the left after
the bridge
*
When coming back from the playfields you should line your campers up before
the bridge and follow the same procedures as found previously.
Office personnel and maintenance personnel have full view of your group
movement across the parking lot. They have been instructed to notify the
administrators if there are any violations of the above procedures.
VII.
ROLE OF THE JUNIOR LEADER ON THE BUS
The camp day begins and ends on the bus therefore the bus ride to and from camp is also an
important part of your camp day. The bus that you are placed on may or may not have a bus
counselor. You need to work with the driver and supervisor as a team to make the bus ride
enjoyable for yourself and the campers. Please assist in leading songs and playing bus games.
The bus counselor has gone through in classroom sessions with the transportation department
on how to lead the bus and administrate the bus cup challenge program. Your bus counselor
will go over with this with you prior to or on your first day at camp. Please remember that you are
a staff member and no longer a camper. Appropriate staff behavior is expected at all times, in
camp and on the bus. Riding the bus is a privilege. Remember that because your privilege can
be revoked, based upon your behavior.
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VIII.
CODE OF CONDUCT
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYMENT
OTCMC.LLC dba “Cali Camp at Big Rock Ranch” (Cali Camp) is an equal employment
opportunity employer.
Cali Camp does not discriminate against qualified applicants or
employees with respect to any terms or conditions of employment based on: race, color,
religion, creed, sex, pregnancy, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, sexual orientation,
gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, physical or mental disability, medical
condition, marital status, military service status, or any other characteristic protected by state
or federal law or local ordinance.
STANDARDS OF CONDUCT
As set forth through out this manual, Cali Camp requires professionalism to succeed and to
promote efficiency, productivity, and cooperation among employees and Leadership trainees.
Professionalism is exhibited by your conduct, specialized knowledge and attitude. For this
reason, it may be helpful to identify some examples of types of conduct that are impermissible
and that may lead to disciplinary action, including possible termination of your training at Cali
Camp.
Although it is not possible to provide a complete list of every possible type of
impermissible conduct and performance, the following are examples:
1.
Insubordination, including improper conduct towards a supervisor or refusal to
perform tasks assigned by a supervisor in an appropriate manner.
2.
Theft or unauthorized removal or possession of property belonging to Cali Camp,
fellow trainees / employees, a camper, or anyone on camp property.
3.
Falsifying or making a material omission on a Leadership trainee application or
any other Cali Camp record.
4.
Bringing to the Company property dangerous or unauthorized materials, such as
explosives, firearms or other similar items.
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5.
Physical fighting by employees or Leadership trainees.
6.
Showing up for work intoxicated or under the influence of drugs and alcohol, or
bringing or having in your possession drugs or alcohol on the camp property
CAMP IMAGE AND REPUTATION
IMAGE - (as defined by Webster), "A mental picture or conception"
REPUTATION - (as defined by Webster), "Overall quality or character as seen or judged by
people in general; Good name"
The high character and excellent reputation of Cali Camp at Big Rock Ranch has taken many
years to develop and is something in which each staff member and JL takes pride. Everything
that you do or say can have a direct effect on camp and it's image or reputation. This is
particularly true when you are riding on a camp bus or wearing a camp shirt. People who have
never even heard of Cali Camp at Big Rock Ranch will make a judgment based on the behavior
you demonstrate. One poor judgment or a callous remark or statement can cause a person to
have a negative image of Cali Camp at Big Rock Ranch, its staff and program. Be aware of
your image at all times !
DRESS CODE
Each first year Junior Leader is provided with five (5) complimentary camp shirts. You are
nd
required to wear a camp t-shirt every day. 2 year and up get 1 new shirt each year.
STAFF SHIRTS MAY NOT BE ALTERED or CUT OFF OR UP IN ANY WAY ! While wearing
your shirt you may not bunch it up to show off your midriff or back area.
You may not wear any clothing which promotes alcoholic beverages or has messages
which are of a sexual nature or anything else deemed to be in bad taste.
The
appropriateness of your shirt is based on the Director’s opinion. You may be asked to turn your
shirt inside out, or have a parent come pick you up from camp, if the Director or any member of
the Leadership Team feels that it is not “camp appropriate.” The "grunge look or sagging" are
not appropriate, nor tolerated at camp.
Shirts and shorts with holes, ripped clothing and
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saggy, baggy pants/shorts, and short shorts are not to be worn at camp. Pants and shorts
must fit and/or must be worn with a belt.
ADORNMENT : Thesaurus nouns: decoration, ornament, embellishment, trimming
As a staff member at Cali Camp at Big Rock Ranch you are a role model for children. Parents
rely on us to provide their children with positive influences. We believe, after much thought
and discussion, that in order to work at Cali Camp at Big Rock Ranch you must limit your
“ear”rings to the ears only while at camp!!! Due to the safety of your ears we also feel that
earrings should be limited to studs and not hoops. Children have accidentally ripped out hoops
from ears during play at many camps across the country. Should you have another body part
pierced for earrings, then please refrain from wearing them.
Tattoos, should you choose to have them, must be in good taste (at the Director’s discretion).
A tattoo which is deemed to be in poor taste, for a children’s camp, must be covered at all
times.
PROFANITY
The use of profanity is not allowed at any time by staff or campers. Staff members and Junior
Leaders are expected to be positive role models. When a staff member, junior leader or a
camper uses profanity, first give a warning; that "this is not a word that we use at camp" or "this
is not camp appropriate". Repeated profanity by staff or campers should be brought to the
attention of a camp director. Marginal words, (i.e., "sucks, pissed off", etc.) are also to be
avoided at camp. The Directors take the use of profanity by staff very seriously. An excessive
use or several warnings may lead to termination.
CONVERSATIONS / APPROPRIATE TOPICS AT CAMP
Junior Leaders are reminded that private or personal matters are not to be discussed at camp!
Subjects such as boy friends, girl friends, parties, what you did last night and the topics below
are best discussed in the evening out of camp. Information on these subjects is easily
misinterpreted by young campers and the information can get back to parents or other children
in a very harmful and embarrassing manner.
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The following topics are not to be discussed at camp at all and especially not with campers at
any time: SEX, DRUGS, RELIGION AND PSYCHOLOGY. Cali Camp at Big Rock Ranch
insists upon an atmosphere which protects people (both other staff members and campers) from
any form of sexual harassment whatsoever. If at any time you consider certain behavior by a
staff member or discussions on a topic to be distasteful, unpleasant or inappropriate for a
camp/work environment please deal directly with the person and tell them that you feel the topic
is not "camp appropriate". If the behavior or inappropriate discussion continues please talk to
either your supervisor or any Director you feel comfortable with and he/she will speak with the
person immediately. When campers have questions on these topics the staff member is to
simply state: "I understand your interest; however, camp policy does not allow me to discuss
this topic with you. It would be best if you discussed this with your parents or a camp director."
Please explain to campers that there is a time and a place for this type of discussion and this is
neither the time nor the place.
AFTER HOURS AND WEEKEND ACTIVITIES
Staff members frequently plan their own after hours activities, parties, etc. Please be advised
that Cali Camp at Big Rock Ranch neither advocates nor accepts responsibility or liability of any
kind for these activities. Staff members promoting activities of this nature must do so on their
own time (not work time) and may not use camp equipment for duplication or promotion of
any event or activity.
CAMP MAIL BOXES AND BULLETIN BOARDS MAY NOT BE USED FOR
PROMOTION OR SOLICITATION OF ANY NON-CAMP SPONSORED ACTIVITIES.
JUNIOR LEADERS / ASSISTANT / SENIOR STAFF SOCIAL RELATIONSHIPS
While we strongly encourage all staff to work closely together as a team in camp, we
recommend that discretion be used in after hours non-camp sponsored staff activities. Junior
Leaders & Assistant staff members are minors by law and still subject to many restrictions
relative to activities, curfews etc. Parents of minors will be notified early in the summer of our
policy regarding minors and social relations and events. Junior Leaders & Assistant staff are still
at a very impressionable age and easily influenced by senior staff. Many senior staff after hours
activities, i.e., parties, are not suitable for junior leaders & assistant staff who are only 14, 15, 16
and 17 years old.
20
CALI CAMP AT BIG ROCK RANCH RECOMMENDS THAT MINORS
NOT BE PRESENT AT SENIOR STAFF (ADULT) AFTER HOURS
FUNCTIONS, PARTIES AND ACTIVITIES.
Prohibition of Sexual and Other Unlawful Harassment
Cali Camp is committed to providing a work environment that is free of discrimination. In
keeping with this policy, Cali Camp strictly prohibits unlawful harassment of any kind, including
harassment on the basis of sex, race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, gender
expression, age, mental or physical disability, medical condition, nation origin, marital status,
veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected under federal or state
law or local ordinance. It is the policy of Cali Camp to maintain a working environment free from
all forms of sexual harassment or intimidation.
Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for
sexual favors, and other verbal or physical contact of a sexual nature are serious violations of
our policy and will not be condoned or permitted.
Unlawful harassment may take many forms, but the most common forms include: Verbal
harassment such as dirty jokes, slurs, negative stereotyping, and unwelcome remarks about
an individual’s body, color, physical characteristics, appearance, or talents, reference to
women as “babe”, “honey,” “doll,” or “sweetheart,” questions about one’s sexual practices and
patronizing terms or remarks.
Physical harassment such as physical interference with normal work, impeding or blocking
movement, assault, unwelcome physical contact, staring at a person’s body, and threatening,
intimidating or hostile acts that relate to a protected characteristic;
Visual harassment such as offensive or obscene photographs, calendars, posters, cards,
cartoons, drawings and gestures, display of sexually suggestive or lewd objects, unwelcome
21
notes or letters, and any other written or graphic material that denigrated or shows hostility or
aversion toward an individual, because of a protected characteristic, that is placed on walls,
bulletin boards, or elsewhere on the employer’s premises or circulation in the workplace.
There are two distinct categories of sexual harassment.
Sexual harassment occurs when an individual’s submission or rejection of unwelcome
sexual conduct is used as a basis for employment decisions affecting that individual,
including granting of employment benefits; in addition, Sexual harassment occurs when
unwelcome sexual conduct unreasonably interferes with an individual’s job performance
or creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive working environment, even if it does not
lead to tangible or economic job consequences.
Sexual harassment includes harassment of women by men, of men by women, and same-sex
gender-based harassment.
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and the Court System have ruled that sexual
harassment on the job constitutes sex discrimination and as such is prohibited by such laws as
the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Guidelines from EEOC define sexual harassment as "any
unwelcome sexual advances or requests for sexual favors or any conduct of a sexual nature
when:
1.
Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or
condition of an individual's employment;
2.
Submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as the basis for
employment decisions affecting such individuals or;
3.
Such conduct has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with an
individual's work performance
or creating an intimidating, hostile or
offensive working environment."
Cali Camp insists upon an atmosphere which protects people (both other staff members and
campers) from any form of sexual harassment whatsoever. If at any time you consider certain
behavior by a staff member or discussions on a topic to be distasteful, unpleasant or
22
inappropriate for a camp/work environment, please deal directly with the person and tell them
that you feel the topic is not "camp appropriate" and that you would like them to cease the use of
said behavior. If the behavior or inappropriate discussion continues you are required to either
advise your immediate supervisor, or any Camp Administrator / Director you feel comfortable
with and he/she will speak with the person immediately.
If you believe that the comments, gestures, or conduct of any junior leader, employee,
supervisor, or person doing business with or for the Cali Camp is offensive, you are required to
immediately report the facts of the incident to your Team Leader or to a Camp Director /
Administrator.
Cali Camp’s policy is to immediately conduct a thorough, objective and complete investigation
of the complaint. At the conclusion of its investigation, it will attempt to determine whether
unlawful harassment has occurred. Cali Camp will look at the totality of the circumstances,
including the nature of the conduct and the context in which it occurred. Cali Camp shall as
promptly as possible, communicate its finding to the complainant and the remedial action (if
any) that will be taken, and when appropriate, to other persons who are directly concerned.
If it determined that unlawful harassment has occurred, Cali Camp will take remedial action
commensurate with the severity of the offense. This action may include disciplinary action
against the harasser, up to and including termination. The Company will also take appropriate
action to prevent any future unlawful harassment at the Company.
WORKPLACE VIOLENCE
Cali Camp recognizes that workplace violence is a growing concern among employers and
employees across the country.
Cali Camp is, therefore, committed to providing a safe,
violence-free workplace. In this regard, Cali Camp strictly prohibits employees, consultants,
campers, customers, visitors, or anyone else on Cali Camp’s premises or engaging in a Cali
Camp related activity from behaving in a violent or threatening manner. Moreover, as part of
this policy, Cali Camp seeks to prevent workplace violence before it begins and reserves the
right to deal with any behavior that suggests a propensity towards violence even prior to any
violent behavior occurring.
Workplace violence includes, but is not limited to, the following: threats of any kind;
threatening, physically aggressive, or violent behavior, such as intimidation of or attempts to
23
instill fear in others; other behavior that suggests a propensity towards violence, which can
include belligerent speech, excessive arguing or swearing, sabotage, or threats of sabotage of
Cali Camp’s property, or a demonstrated pattern of refusal to follow Cali Camp’s policies and
procedures; or defacing Company property or causing physical damage to the facilities.
Cali Camp believes that prevention of workplace violence begins with recognition and
awareness of potential early warning signs and has established procedures within Human
Resources for responding to situations that present the possibility of violence.
If any
employee observes or becomes aware of any actions or behavior by an employee, camper,
customer, consultant, parent, visitor, or anyone else of a violent nature, he or she shall
immediately notify his or her Team Leader and the Camp Director / Administrator.
All reports of workplace violence will be taken seriously and will be investigated promptly and
thoroughly. In appropriate circumstances, the Cali Camp will inform the reporting individual of
the results of the investigation. If Cali Camp determines that workplace violence has occurred,
Cali Camp will take appropriate corrective action and will impose discipline on offending
employees.
Work place violence by any staff member, counselors, or Junior Leaders
(Trainees) counselors, shall be grounds for immediate termination.
INSPECTION PERSONAL BELONGINGS
Cali Camp reserves the right to search file cabinets, desks, staff member mail boxes, job
boxes, lunch boxes, briefcases, back packs purses, coats, and other personal property of staff
members, and their content, for illegal drugs, alcohol, weapons, and stolen property,
collectively referred to as “contraband.” Cali Camp will conduct searches only when there is
reasonable suspicion to believe that a staff member has contraband in his or her possession.
However, any contraband in plain view will be confiscated. “Reasonable suspicion” means
facts that would lead a person of reasonable prudence and knowledge to believe that
contraband is located on the person or in the area to be searched. When contraband is not in
plain view, but there is reasonable suspicion to believe that contraband is on the property of
Cali Camp, the Camp Director or the staff member’s direct supervisor will ask for the staff
member’s permission to conduct the search.
However, a staff member has no reasonable
expectation of privacy in, and may not withhold permission of, Camp Director or the staff
member’s supervisor’s searches of Cali Camp supplied containers, including desks, lockers
24
and packages. Inspections can occur at any time, with or without advance notice or consent.
Staff members, who, if requested, fail to cooperate in any inspection shall be subject to
disciplinary action, including possible suspension or discharge.
0.
ALCOHOL AND DRUGS
1.
Cali Camp Policy on Illegal Drugs and Alcohol.
It is the intent of Cali Camp to operate in an environment free of drugs and alcohol. Cali
Camp believes that use of drugs or alcohol by staff members or junior leaders being under the
influence of drugs and alcohol, jeopardizes the welfare and safety of employees of Cali Camp,
the campers, Leadership Trainees, and visitors. Accordingly, use of drugs and alcohol, or
being under the influence of drugs or alcohol while on duty at the camp as a staff member or
junior leader, is strictly prohibited and grounds for immediate termination at Cali Camp.
Manufacture, possession, distribution, or purchase of an illegal drug or of alcohol by any staff
member, or being under the influence of an illegal drug or alcohol, while at the Cali-Camp
facility or on any Cali Camp sanctioned camp excursion or trip, is strictly prohibited and
grounds for immediate termination of that staff member’s employment at Cali Camp. “Under
the influence” is defined as any measurable amount of drugs or alcohol present in an
employee.
It is the responsibility of all staff members to ensure that the work environment at Cali Camp is
free of alcohol and drugs. This is especially important in that all staff members are working
with children and the use of drugs and alcohol by any staff member could be dangerous to the
well being of the children under the care and supervision of Cali Camp, and such use could
severally damage the reputation of Cali Camp at Big Rock Ranch. Any staff member who has
knowledge of the violation of this policy shall immediately report the violation the Camp
Director. Failure of a staff member to report the violation of this policy to the Camp Director
shall be grounds for disciplinary action, up to and including termination of his or her
employment at Cali Camp.
2.
Testing for Drugs or Alcohol
Random Drug Testing.
Bus drivers and staff members working in high risk areas are
subject to Random Drug Testing under federal law.
These tests will be conducted by a
25
professional medical staff and laboratory as set forth below. Any bus driver or staff member
working in a high risk area at the camp who tests positive for drugs or alcohol will be subject to
immediate termination.
Disciplinary Action
1.
If a staff member refuses to take and/or cooperate with the administration of the drug test,
the refusal will be handled in the same manner as a positive test result. Such action will
subject the employee to disciplinary actions, including suspension or possible discharge.
2.
If the staff member involved does not pass, the staff member’s employment at Cali Camp
will be immediately terminated. As the staff members working with children attending the
camp, alcohol and drug use that impairs a staff member’s faculties will not be tolerated
and will be grounds for immediate termination.
Cali Camp at Big Rock Ranch will take into consideration any circumstances establishing that
the possession or use of an otherwise legal drug by an employee on Cali Camp at Big Rock
Ranch property occurs in response to the lawfully written prescription of a medical doctor.
However, the staff member or junior leader may be sent or taken to his or her place of residence
if such prescribed drug usage adversely affects the staff member’s job performance, including
but not limited to the ability to supervise children attending Cali Camp at Big Rock Ranch
Summer Day Camp. Furthermore, discipline may be administered if the staff member fails to
advise his or her supervisor or the Camp Director at the time the staff member comes to work of
his/her usage of prescribed drugs on the Cali Camp at Big Rock Ranch’s premises that could
impair his or her ability to perform his or her job in a safe manner. A drug/alcohol screening test
will not be required under the circumstances stated above regarding the use of lawful drugs in
response to a written prescription of a medical doctor. However, the staff member or junior
leader will be required to provide a release from the prescribing doctor to perform the functions
of the staff member’s or junior leader’s job position prior to the staff member being permitted to
work and/or return to work.
Acknowledgment and Consent. Any staff member or junior leader subject to testing under
this policy will be asked to sign a form acknowledging the procedures governing testing, and
consenting to (1) the collection of a urine sample for the purpose of determining the presence
26
of alcohol or drugs, and (2) the release to Cali Camp at Big Rock Ranch of medical information
regarding the test results. Refusal to sign the agreement and consent form, or to submit to the
drug test, will subject a staff member or junior leader to disciplinary action up to and including
termination.
Confidentiality. All drug testing-records shall be treated as confidential by Cali Camp at Big
Rock Ranch.
PERSONAL EQUIPMENT & BELONGINGS
Cali Camp at Big Rock Ranch discourages staff and junior leaders from bringing personal
equipment, money and valuables to camp. All equipment owned and used by Cali Camp
at Big Rock Ranch at camp must be kept in the Equipment Shed or stored in the
appropriate location at camp for the administration of its safe use.
Cali Camp at Big Rock Ranch is not responsible for any personal equipment or possessions that
are damaged, stolen, lost, destroyed, or anything else that may happen to them. When your
position requires the use of personal equipment as requested by the Camp Director then
you must obtain a written agreement indicating proof of Cali Camp at Big Rock Ranch
accepting responsibility.
RADIOS, CELL PHONES, DISC PLAYERS, TELEVISIONS, TAPE PLAYERS OR ANY OTHER
TECHNOLOGICAL DEVICES ARE NOT ALLOWED OR PERMITTED IN CAMP except when
used in conjunction with a specific activity or special program, i.e., performance or beach trip
day. Radios/disc players/ipods/small televisions/tape players are not allowed to be played on
the buses at any time. Cali Camp at Big Rock Ranch assumes no responsibility of any kind for
these items if they are brought to camp for a special activity and they are lost, damaged or
destroyed. Staff and junior leaders are not advised to bring personal communication devices,
pagers or cell phones to camp at any time. Staff members and junior leaders are strongly
advised not to bring any large amounts of cash to camp or to wear expensive jewelry during the
work day. Cali Camp at Big Rock Ranch is not responsible for cars, bicycles, motorcycles or
anything that is parked or left on or near the employer's facility. Additionally, Cali Camp at Big
Rock Ranch is not responsible for the same said items for drivers or supervisors parking
personal vehicles at bus departure locations. Cali Camp at Big Rock Ranch is not responsible
for any damage, theft or destruction to clothing, hats, shoes or costumes as a result of working in
27
the camp environment. No one, camper, junior leader or staff member may bring a personal pet
to camp or on the bus. Should a staff member or junior leader bring any item to camp and it is
lost or stolen you have done so at your own risk and Cali Camp at Big Rock Ranch is not
responsible.
IX.
WEEKLY EVALUATIONS
EVALUATIONS
Each week you will be evaluated by the Sr. Staff member you are working with, on your
participation, enthusiasm and ability to work with campers and your peers. You will also be
participating in a self-evaluation each week. The counselor/specialist has the option to share the
evaluation with you before turning it in to your Team Leader. Each week you will be given the
opportunity to see your evaluations and discuss your progress with your Jr. Leader’s Team
Leader. Please review the newly revised evaluation form found later in this manual. This will
provide you with a list of positive achievement objectives to work towards.
X.
VACATIONS AND ABSENCES
VACATIONS
Jr. Leaders members may opt to attend all 10 weeks or take 2 weeks off. Your time off may be
taken one week at a time or in consecutive weeks. All Jr. Leaders are required to fulfill a
minimum of 8 weeks (exceptions upon approval of Director). You may not take time off one or
two days at a time. Please inform the Junior Leader Team Leader of your schedule prior to
camp or during the first two weeks. If you must be absent please inform the Junior Leader Team
Leader as soon as possible.
ABSENCE
If for some reason you are unable to attend camp on a specific day due to illness, please call
camp (310) 455-0404, as soon as you know. Leave a message for The Junior Leader Team
Leader. There is someone in the office until 6:00pm and after that the exchange will take your
28
message. It is very important that you call us in case you will not be coming to camp
ahead of time. Your bus driver needs notice and your Team Leaderr needs to find a
replacement for your group. We do not appreciate surprises.
XI.
INVITATION TO RETURN
The Junior Leader program provides experience working with children, peers and adults alike in
a recreational setting. It also provides an opportunity to gain valuable leadership skills, build a
positive self-image and enhance self esteem. Our junior leader program is an excellent learning
experience, but it isn't for everyone. Each year, right after the first of the year, we extend
invitations to return to those individuals we feel we would like to have back again the following
summer. Invitations to return are based on your acquired abilities, your weekly evaluations and
upon at least 75% completion of your signed contractual agreement.
XII.
RECOMENDDATIONS AND COMMUNITY SERVICE
Recommendations and community service verification is available upon request from Cali Camp.
Please send a written request, with your schools paper work and a self addressed stamped
envelope to Cali Camp at 1717 Old Topanga Canyon Rd, Topanga CA 90290 or email
[email protected]
XIII.
HEALTH AND SAFETY
The primary concern of parents when sending their children to camp is
HEALTH AND
SAFETY... It is our role as camping professionals to assure each and every camper a safe
stay at Cali Camp at Big Rock Ranch. It is the responsibility of each staff member and junior
leader that all campers entrusted to their care will be safe, from the moment they are picked up
by the bus until the final wave goodbye as they enter their home at the end of the day.
29
IT BEGINS WITH YOU... Responsibility for the health and safety of campers rests with
each and every staff member and junior leader. Staff members and junior leaders must, at all
times, be aware of their own behavior, attitude and appearance, striving to be a positive role
model for all younger campers. The staff member and junior leader who stays up too late at
night and burns the candle at both ends is likely to be impatient and less tolerant.
IT IS EACH COUNSELOR'S / ASSISTANT STAFF’S RESPONSIBILITY TO ...
1)
Constantly be aware of each campers physical and emotional health and safety.
2)
Make sure each camper receives the proper orientation to the group, the activities, the
out-of-camp trips, the camp and all of it's policies and procedures. (Refer to Notebook for
orientation specifics)
3)
Be aware of each camper's physical and emotional needs. Check confidential camper
information which is attached to weekly group lists
4)
Make certain that each camper is dressed properly for all weather conditions and
activities.
5)
Watch for sunburn while at camp, specifically at the pool, playfield, horses or the beach
and apply sun screen to campers when necessary (provided-). (See Beach Trip Directive
for specifics).
6)
Supervise the personal cleanliness and hygiene of campers, encouraging them to wash
hands after going to the restroom, getting dirty and before eating.
7)
Make certain that all campers have water to drink as often as they may want it and that
each child has milk or ice water to drink with their lunch.
8)
See that all campers have a lunch, either from home or purchased at camp and that they
have eaten it earlier in the day (on the bus on the way to camp).
9)
Send out-of-camp trip notification slips home advising parents of upcoming trips and
events (when it applies).
10) Deal with camper's behavior through the methods described in staff training and in writing
in the staff manual and notebook.
11)
REPORT ALL INJURIES, major or minor to the camp First Aid Specialist.
12)
REPORT ALL ACCIDENTS or INCIDENTS to the camp First Aid Specialist as prescribed
in Staff training.
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13)
Remain with your group at all specialty areas, participate and handle all disciplinary
problems as they arise according to Cali Camp at Big Rock Ranch policies and
procedures.
IT IS EACH SPECIALIST'S RESPONSIBILITY TO ...
1)
Constantly be aware of the health and safety of all staff and campers who are in your
area.
2)
Make sure your specialty area is clean and safe for participation at all times.
3)
Make sure that all campers and staff receive the safety orientation specific to your
specialty area before participating in the activity.
4)
Make sure that all safety procedures and rules for the area are followed by campers/staff.
5)
Make sure that ALL campers, staff and junior leaders wear safety gear (should the
specialty area require it) while participating in the activity.
6)
See to it that all equipment and safety gear is in good condition and safe to use.
7)
Follow prescribed closing procedures and lock up each day.
8)
Keep your first aid kit stocked & report ALL injuries, major/minor to First Aid Specialist.
9)
Make sure counselors remain in area with their campers and assist with camper behavior
as necessary, according to Cali Camp at Big Rock Ranch policies and procedures.
IT IS EACH JUNIOR LEADER’S RESPONSIBILITY TO ...
1)
Assist the counselors, assistants and specialists in our team effort to keep campers safe.
2)
Junior Leaders have their own manuals that cover their specific responsibilities.
CAMPER AND STAFF HEALTH HISTORIES
In order to insure that everyone at camp is healthy and free of disease, all persons, campers and
staff (Sr., Assistants) and Junior Leaders alike, must turn in a signed health history form prior to
participation in camp activities. This form is mailed prior to camp with agreements, contracts and
personnel policies and procedures. Cali Camp at Big Rock Ranch requires that all health forms
of minors (those under the age of 18 years of age) must be signed by a parent or guardian.
31
CAMP FIRST AID
Cali Camp at Big Rock Ranch has a First Aid Specialist - Nurse on staff who will be responsible
for the treatment of camper and staff injuries. There is a First Aid Treatment Center located on
the camp grounds where all camper and staff medical forms are filed. All medication brought to
camp by campers on their first day must be given to and be administered by First Aid Specialist Nurse.
Any injury resulting in a blood spill (defined as a wound with blood present) must be dealt with in
extreme caution due to the potential risk of the injured person having unreported infections
diseases such as Hepatitis, Aides and HIV Positive. You will find sanitation prevention kits in
most activity areas and all areas where a specialist is present.
ALL INJURIES (no matter how small) MUST BE REPORTED TO CAMP FIRST AID
SPECIALIST PRIOR TO THE END OF THE CAMP DAY ON WHICH THE INJURY
OCCURRED. THIS INCLUDES OUT OF CAMP INJURIES.
All injuries incurred on an out of camp trip must be written up on an accident report form and
given immediately upon arrival back at camp to the First Aid Specialist - Nurse.
The First Aid Specialist - Nurse must record all injuries and the treatment in a bound medical log.
It is extremely important that all injuries are reported and recorded.
The First Aid Specialist -
Nurse or camp administrators will contact parents regarding children’s injuries. Should a parent
call and ask for more information as to what happened to their child, the camp will have a record
of it.
Cali Camp at Big Rock Ranch prefers that all injuries be treated and recorded by our First Aid
Specialist - Nurse, but there are certain emergencies in which immediate First Aid procedures
must be followed. (Please refer to the First Aid Handout (Health Care Procedures) in the Cali
Camp at Big Rock Ranch Staff Notebook for procedures and information on specific injuries).
32
Cali Camp at Big Rock Ranch has physicians on call in the valley and the city and certain
hospitals and Urgent Care facilities which we use regularly for any emergencies which cannot be
handled by our First Aid Specialist.
FIRST AID PROCEDURES ON THE BUS
Cali Camp at Big Rock Ranch has specific First Aid procedures in the event of an emergency
while en-route to or from camp.
For information in regards to Transportation First Aid
procedures please refer to the Transportation Manual and First Aid Procedures.
BEACH TRIP EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
The following emergency procedures are excerpts from the Cali Camp at Big Rock Ranch
Communication Plan. Out-of-Camp Trip Emergency Procedures must accompany each group
leaving camp with the designated person “In Charge”. Please follow all out-of-camp emergency
procedures explicitly.
1. All injuries, (no matter how small) must be reported to the first aid specialist
prior to the end of the camp day on which the injury occurred. The
designated person “In Charge” must fill out the accident/incident report form
at the scene and turn it in to the first aid specialist upon return to camp in the
afternoon.
2.
If an accident happens out-of-camp which requires some sort of emergency treatment
or hospitalization the designated person “In Charge” must contact a Camp
Administrator immediately.
3.
Depending upon the severity of the incident/accident only a Camp Administrator (Pam)
or the Cali-Camp First Aid Specialist may contact community emergency services and
parents / guardians. If you need help determining the severity, let the camp
administrator help you.
4.
When calling camp ask to speak with one of the camp administrators directly. Let the
office know it is urgent, but do not tell them the whole story. Please also give us a
telephone number where you can be reached.
5.
DO NOT CALL PARENTS!!! The Camp Administrators or First Aid Specialist are the
only persons to contact parents In an emergency call.
INTRUSION OF UNAUTHORIZED PERSONS
Cali Camp at Big Rock Ranch has an open-door policy for visitors, but we need to know at all
times who is on the grounds for all of our safety. Anyone, whether they are invited or wander
33
onto the property, must have a “Guest” name tag to identify themselves. Anyone who you do
not recognize must be approached in a polite manner and asked to please step into the main
office and acquire nametag. It is important that campers are oriented to this procedure for their
own protection. At this time the main office will find out why they are here and who they are
visiting.
The office knows special situations about campers whose parents have specific
instructions as to the release of campers to persons other than their parents, etc.
EVACUATION PLAN
The possibility of fires and earthquakes necessitates having an evacuation plan. The term
evacuation at Cali Camp at Big Rock Ranch refers to the removal of all campers and staff in the
fastest and safest way possible. This calls for true leadership, knowledge and composure on the
part of all staff members. The main objective in evacuation is to remove everyone from the
premises and then the area. Cali Camp at Big Rock Ranch has an evacuation drill each week.
At this time campers will be instructed on all procedures. Procedures will be reviewed and
rehearsed at staff training.
A. HUMAN CONTROL
1)
The most important thing that a staff member can do is maintain composure and self
control. Your fears will be projected to the campers.
2)
We want the campers to know the reality of the fire/earthquake but at the same time have
a feeling of confidence and security in you so that they won't panic.
3)
Please reassure campers that they will be safe and that we will be in contact with their
parents as the need arises.
4)
At the conclusion of the fire/evacuation drill all counselors are to reassure campers that it
was only a drill and there is no threat or danger at this time.
B. THE STEPS FOR FIRE / EVACUATION DRILL:
1)
The signal to be given will be 3 loud whistle sounds followed by the vocal sound of "FIRE"
(repeated 3 times).
2)
The signal will be sounded by the Directors and Team Leaders throughout the camp.
34
3)
The 2 fire alarm bells at the Classroom complex may be activated.
4)
Upon hearing this signal you are to immediately stop what you are doing and organize the
campers quietly and quickly into a single file line with the Counselor leading and the
Junior Leader trailing. Proceed to the main grass area adjacent to the lunch area, seat
your group single file, take role and check in with the Director who is taking role.
5)
All specialists must accompany the group that was at their area at the time of the
fire/evacuation drill. If you have no group, report to the lawn area immediately.
6)
Do not stop for their belongings or anything else that will cause a delay. Material objects
are unimportant in an evacuation.
7)
Everyone is encouraged to refrain from talking so they can hear your instructions!
8)
No one is to leave the lawn area without permission from a Director.
9)
The Directors will give specific instructions to everyone should an actual evacuation be
necessary
10)
In an actual evacuation of the premises all drivers will be sent to their vehicles and the
campers excused in an organized fashion.
11)
All drivers must take roll and be accountable for the campers that they brought to camp in
the morning.
12)
The Directors will give instructions and maps to each driver as to where to go. These
same maps will also be found in the driver's bus kit.
Topanga Canyon affords 4 major routes of exit:
1)
2)
3)
4)
Topanga Canyon Blvd.-South to the Pacific Coast Highway.
Topanga Canyon Blvd.-North to the San Fernando Valley.
Old Topanga Canyon to the Valley or Malibu.
Fernwood Pacific to La Tuna Canyon to the Pacific Coast Highway.
C. IN THE EVENT OF AN ACTUAL EARTHQUAKE:
DON'T PANIC, REMAIN COOL AND CALM Your campers safety is your first responsibility !!!
1)
Immediately stop your activity and attempt to move your group as quickly as possible to:
a) Open areas are best. (Tennis courts, playground or grassy fields)
b) Move away from large trees, rock formations or buildings.
2)
Should anyone be hurt, administer First Aid immediately. Reassure campers. Calm them
down. (See Human Control on previous page)
3)
After the earthquake subsides all campers and staff will attempt to proceed with the
evacuation plan and proceed to the Playground / Tennis Courts (not the lawn below the
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pool for obvious reasons), seat your group single file, count your campers and check in
with the Director who is taking roll. Catch the Director’s attention upon arrival.
4)
Should you and your group be unable to get to the meeting area remain where you are
and we will find you. Do not attempt to be a hero. Do not jeopardize any lives, yours or
your campers. Do not leave your campers alone. Reassure and calm campers.
5)
The Directors will provide specific instructions.
"The awareness of responsibility and safety on your part will provide a happy,
safe summer for your campers, yourself and your Directors."
6) We have enough food, water, blankets and first aid supplies to provide comfort for the
entire camp (campers and staff) for 3 days.
BE AWARE
BE SAFETY CONSCIOUS!!!
BEACH TRIP LOST CAMPER SEARCH PROCEDURES
One of our greatest fears is that a camper may get lost. This procedure is to be initiated
immediately upon discovery that a camper is lost or missing. A copy of these procedures must
accompany each out-of-camp trip, including Beach Trips and be in the possession of the
Appointed Person in Charge.
1)
CLEARLY IDENTIFY THE MISSING PERSON:
NAME ___________________________________ MALE (____) FEMALE (____)
AGE (____) HAIR COLOR ________________________________
CLOTHING_____________________________________________
OTHER
IDENTIFYING
FEATURES
ie.
glasses,
etc.______________________________
2)
An explanation is taken by the counselor and the person or persons that have last seen
the camper as to where and when (determine an approximate time) camper was last
seen. Ask the campers in the child's group if they know where the camper might be.
BE CAREFUL NOT TO SOUND WORRIED AND PANIC THE CAMPERS.
3)
Gather together all other campers in a safe location with all Junior Staff supervising and
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leading songs.
4)
All Senior Staff are to meet and (under the guidance of the "In Charge" person) establish
a plan for searching for the lost camper. Be sure to check obvious places such as
parking lot, buses, restrooms, candy counters, snack areas. Senior Staff are to comb the
area from which the camper strayed and establish a time limit of 10 minutes to search
and then meet again to determine results and additional procedures.
5)
If the camper is not located then the Person, designated as "In Charge" should inform the
management of the facility of the missing camper and ask for their assistance in locating
the camper. (ie. P.A. system, security, etc.) This procedure is to be initiated only after a
Staff Search has taken place and the camper is determined to be completely missing.
6)
The designated "In Charge" person must now call the camp (310) 455 - 0404 and speak
to a CAMP ADMINISTRATOR (Pam) for further instructions. Do not tell your story to
the office staff, but speak directly with a camp administrator. Please also give us a
telephone number where you can be reached.
7)
Additional steps will include notifying police/sheriff for assistance and additional camp
personnel being sent to location with a full camp roster. The camp administrator will
advise as to who to contact and what to do with other campers and staff, (return or wait at
your location).
8)
Under no circumstances should you talk or report anything to the media. The Camp
Administrators are the only people that may speak to the media.
9)
DO NOT CALL PARENTS!!! The Camp Administrators are the only persons to contact
parents in the case of a lost or missing child. The Camp Administrators will determine the
procedures for this process depending upon the circumstances. A copy of the above
procedures is given to each designated "In Charge" person on each trip.
IN-CAMP LOST CAMPER SEARCH PROCEDURES:
The following procedures have been developed for persons lost, missing or runaway in camp:
1)
It is the counselor’s responsibility to make sure campers are with the group at all times.
Be aware of who is here today and take roll throughout the day. Calling names from your
group roster is necessary at times but is too time consuming to do all day long. Counting
works well after you are sure who is here and what your numbers are. A buddy system is
also an easy way to call role. Reinforce how important it is that they stay with the group.
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2)
If you find that a camper is missing take a moment and retrace your group’s steps in your
mind. Did you just pass another activity that looked like fun? Could the camper have
stopped to watch another group or activity? Attempt to determine where the camper
could have gone.
3)
Communicate with your Assistant or Jr. Leaders. Send one of them back to look for the
camper. Have them check the restrooms and retrace your steps. Do not have them
search the entire camp. Have them report back to you in 10 minutes. Do not take the
entire group to search for a camper. Go to your next activity. Reinforce how important it
is that they stay with the group.
4)
If the camper is not found then send a Jr. Leader or yourself, leaving your campers only if
they are properly supervised, for a Team Leader.
5)
Clearly identify the missing camper by group, name, age, hair color, clothing and any
other identifying features ie. glasses, etc. Where was the camper last seen?
6)
The Leadership Team will organize a "search group" and assist in locating the missing
camper. The Directors have communication with each other, the office, the nurse, the
Facilities Director, Adventure Area, Target Sports and Horsebackriding through the use of
walkie talkies.
7)
When the camper is found treat them kindly. Being lost or missing can be traumatic.
Reinforce how important it is that they stay with the group in the future. If this behavior
becomes a pattern, follow the proper disciplinary steps with the camper.
8)
Should the child not be found the camp administrators (Pam) will determine the
procedures for the process of contacting authorities, local and state emergency
resources, parents, etc. Under no circumstances should you call parents of a lost or
missing child without first discussing it with the Camp Administrators.
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