volunteer FAQ

Camp Quality relies on the guidance of our Medical Advisory Committee to keep everyone safe and healthy at camp. They have recently evaluated our COVID-19 policies for this upcoming summer. For Summer 2023, Camp Quality will: Strongly encourage all participants to have an up-to-date series of a COVID-19 vaccine; Require all participants to complete an online health screening before arrival to camp; Continue to encourage frequent hand washing and respiratory etiquette. Camp Quality will no longer require: Masking indoors; Physical Distancing; Cohorts; Testing at check-in. Camp Quality's COVID-19 policies are subject to change. Any changes will be communicated as soon as possible. If you have any questions please contact us at medical@campquality.org.

New Volunteer Qualifications: At least 18 years of age. Complete volunteer application Able to provide 3 references (New Volunteers). Available for an interview (New Volunteers). Accepted Volunteer Requirements : Able to provide a clear Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Screening. Provide proof of immunization status. Mandatory attendance and completion of Volunteer Training Additional Medical Requirements for in-person programs: All Volunteers must have the following full immunizations as per provincial vaccination schedule, or are beginning immunizations as part of a catch-up schedule: MMR OR Proof of Antibodies to MMR Varicella OR Previous History of Chickenpox OR Proof of Antibodies to Varicella Pertussis containing vaccine; ex. DTaP (one dose at minimum based on eligibility) Each volunteer will need to complete a TB questionnaire in the application once confirmed for camp. The following immunizations are strongly recommended: COVID-19 Hepatitis B (Two dose series) Tetanus boosters every 10 years Yearly influenza For more information on Volunteer Qualifications, reach out to us at volunteer@campquality.org.

Alberta July 9-14, 2024 Manitoba July 20-26, 2024 Eastern Ontario August 10-16, 2024 Northern Ontario June 29-July 5, 2024 Southern Ontario August 17-23, 3034 Northwestern Ontario July 14-19, 2024 Each volunteer will also attend training prior to the start of camp. During this training you will meet the team and learn how to create a safe and engaging environment for everyone to enjoy their week at Camp Quality!

What is a Companion? Companions are dedicated volunteers matched one-on-one with a camper for the week. We carefully pair them based on interests to build a strong connection. Throughout camp activities, the Companion participates alongside their camper, providing support, ensuring their well-being, and helping them have fun. They are their camper's primary support and friend for the week. What is a Super Companion? Super Companions support the Companion team by providing essential break coverage, ensuring continuous camper care. They also interact with various campers in cabins and activities, offering extra adult support. Additionally, they assist the program team with setting up, running, and taking down activities. What does an Activity Leader do? Activity Leaders are responsible for designing and leading engaging camp activities throughout the day and evening. They manage the flow, bring energy to each session, and ensure a safe and fun learning environment. Activities vary by camp and can include options like archery, arts and crafts, and sports. What is the role of a Lifeguard? Lifeguard volunteers are certified and responsible for ensuring safety at the waterfront (lake) during swim and boating times. They enforce water safety rules. When not on waterfront duty, they support the camp by assisting wherever needed. What do Kitchen Volunteers do? Kitchen volunteers work hard to prepare meals and ensure all participants' dietary needs are met. They are essential for keeping everyone well-fed and happy throughout the camp. What is the role of the Nurse? Nurse volunteers help keep everyone safe and healthy at camp. Working with the Medical Coordinator, they provide first aid, administer medication, and offer general health support. What do Virtual CQ Pals do? Virtual CQ Pals assist with leading and participating in virtual camp week activities, helping to create a fun and engaging online experience for virtual campers.

Camp Quality uses an online application system called CampDoc. To get started with your application visit www.campquality.org/apply. Check out our CampDoc guide to learn more about completing your application. Volunteers must successfully complete all screening steps to be confirmed for camp. 2024 volunteer applications will be opened in early January 2024.

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Immunizations FAQ What immunizations are mandatory? In order to volunteer at camp, you will need the following immunizations: TWO doses of MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) ONE dose of varicella (chickenpox vaccine) ONE dose of a pertussis containing vaccine (ie. TDap) What if I had chicken pox as a child? If you have had chicken pox in the past, please indicate the date of illness, as best you can remember. The year of chickenpox is sufficient. Do I need to upload picture proofs? All volunteers and staff need to upload picture proofs of their immunizations onto CampDoc. You can help us move through your application faster by additionally writing in the dates of your immunizations into CampDoc. How do I find my immunizations? You may be able to find your immunizations in the following places: Your immunization card Your family doctor, or office where you were likely to be vaccinated Your local Public Health unit Any local provincial online portals, or apps (ie. Immunization connect) Any post secondary schools, camps, jobs, or organizations where you were required to submit your records in the past I can’t find my immunization records. What do I do now? If you can not find your immunization records, please make an appointment with a physician and ask for blood titres for: MMR, pertussis and varicella. I wasn’t fully immunized as a kid, how can I catch up? Please connect with your family doctor to book any catch up immunizations you may require. My oncologist has told me I can’t get immunized. What should I do? Please connect with your Medical Coordinator where we can look at getting you safely to camp. Why measles? Measles is a highly contagious virus that is spread when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes. Measles can cause runny nose, cough, fever and a widespread rash. Measles may lead to complications such as pneumonia, blindness, and encephalitis. Those with a weak immune system are at highest risk of death from measles. Why mumps? Mumps is a contagious disease caused by a virus that can spread when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or by touching a contaminated surface. Measles can cause headache, muscle aches and swelling of their salivary glands, causing puffy cheeks and a swollen jaw. Complications of mumps may include pneumonia, and encephalitis. Those with a weak immune system are at highest risk of further complications. Why rubella? Rubella is a contagious disease caused by a virus. Rubella spreads when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Someone with rubella may have fever, headache, pink eye, a widespread rash, and swollen lymph nodes. Complications of rubella can cause internal bleeds, encephalitis and further neurological problems. Those with a weak immune system are at high risk of rubella. Why varicella? Chickenpox is an illness caused by the varicella virus which spreads through direct contact with the rash, or when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Someone with chickenpox may have fever, headache, feel tired, and have an itchy rash with small fluid filled blisters. Complications of chickenpox can lead to pneumonia, encephalitis, and other infections. Those with a weakened immune system are at higher risk of chickenpox and its complications. Why pertussis? Pertussis, also called whooping cough, is an infection of the lungs and airways caused by a virus. An infected person can spread pertussis through coughing and sneezing. Someone with pertussis may have fever, runny nose, and is characterized by serious coughing fits with a distinct “whooping” cough. Pertussis may lead to pneumonia. Those with a weakened immune system are at an increased risk of pertussis.

For more questions about the volunteer experience or how to apply, email us at volunteer@campquality.org !