2023 Camp Staff Manual

- Ian “Gunner” Brassett

WELCOME BOOKLET SUMMER 2023

Thank you for choosing Hermann Sons Life Camp as your summer home.I know you had options and do appreciate your decision.Choosing to work at a summer camp is easily one of the most selfless acts you can make. The decision to put the wants, needs and desires of the campers and the Camp ahead of yours for the summer is a big decision. A life-altering decision!

Please understand that working at a camp is not simply a job. It can become a way of life It encompasses your entire self for the summer.You will be eating, drinking and sleeping summer camp.You will make friends at Hermann Sons Life who will remain your friends and become part of your family for the rest of your life. You will talk about camp, the activities, the kids and the friends you make this summer so much so that your family and friends from home will believe you had joined a cult! (You haven’t)

Living and working at Camp is living in an incredible bubble. We are all far removed from the outside world where the evening activity or what’s for dinner are the most important things on your mind!

Working at camp is not easy.In fact, it may be the most difficult job you will ever have! It will test you in ways you cannot possibly imagine.

• You will be physically and mentally exhausted most of the summer.

• You will be expected to have a positive attitude and smile the entire summer.

• You will eat the same meals every week.

• You will have campers test the last nerve available at the end of a long stressful day, and you must handle the situation with poise and a positive demeanor

• You will be expected to work hard every day

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask. I can be reached at ianb@hermannsonslife.org.

Thank you again for choosing to work at Hermann Sons Life Camp.

Ian “Gunner” Brassett Executive Camp Director Hermann Sons Life Camp (830) 995.3223 – Office (909) 362.9058 – Cell/Mobile ianb@hermannsonslife.org

PLEASE ADD MY NUMBER TO YOUR CELL & TEXT ME YOUR NAME!

HERMANN SONS LIFE HISTORY

Hermann Sons Life Camp is owned and operated by Hermann Sons Life, a not-for-profit fraternal benefit society. One becomes a member of Hermann Sons Life by purchasing a life insurance certificate.

Hermann Sons Life is the largest fraternal benefit society domiciled in only one state and the oldest in the nation. Membership totals almost 70,000 men, women and children who belong to local lodges in more than 135 Texas cities and towns. In addition to the financial security that is available through the various Hermann Sons Life insurance certificates, members share fellowship.

The Order of the Sons of Hermann was founded in Texas in 1860 and has ties to the national organization that began in New York in 1840 and is the oldest fraternal society in the nation. This organization adopted the motto, “Friendship, Love and Loyalty.”

In 1890, the Texas lodges joined together to form the Grand Lodge of the Order of the Sons of Hermann in the State of Texas and in 1921 voted to withdraw from the national group and become its own entity.

Fraternal benefits that had begun with the construction of the Altenheim (Retirement Home) in 1916 continued under the direction of Grand President Carl Biebers (1946-58). The membershipsupported retirement home is for older members who enjoy this “Castle on the Hill” and the companionship of Hermann Sons Life peers.

Carl Biebers, known as the “Father of the Youth Movement”, not only helped instigate issuance of junior insurance certificates in 1942, he fostered the formation of junior chapters, dance classes and, in 1954, presided over the construction and dedication of a modern summer camp facility.

Hermann Sons Youth Camp (Riverside) was established in 1954 with the promise to provide wholesome, fun summer activities for junior members. In 1991 the Hilltop site was built one mile from Riverside.

In 2017, the company was re-branded as Hermann Sons Life and the summer camp was re-named as Hermann Sons Life Camp. This summer around 2,000 eager campers (ages 9-14) will be attending one of six one-week sessions. Camp also offers a Mini-Camp session for our 8 and 9year-old Junior Members and also offer a half-week Grief Support Session which is conducted in coordination with the Children’s Bereavement Center of South Texas.

Boys will attend Hilltop and girls will attend Riverside. Campers live in air-conditioned dormitories with bunk beds.

There are benefits, in addition to the Camp, that Hermann Sons Life offers to its members. The individual lodges across the State offer camp and college scholarships, social programs and fellowship for their members such as tuition-free dance classes for children ages 3 through 17 that are offered in more than 23 communities and taught by professional instructors.

HERMANN SONS LIFE IS A FRATERNAL BENEFIT SOCIETY FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY.

The HERMANN SONS LIFE CAMP Mission is to provide a quality, safe and caring summer camp program that develops healthy friendships and enriches the lives of both campers and staff by fostering self-esteem and independence through exposure to new experiences, group living and play.

Counseling campers is a tough job. You might get frustrated when the kids aren’t listening. You might feel like all your efforts are wasted and you’re not accomplishing anything. Be assured, your efforts aren’t wasted and you are making a difference.

You’re impacting the kids every minute of the day. It's just not immediately visible! The story below is told in the context of "making a difference" - which is what we want our staff to do in the life of each child in their care.

THE STARFISH STORY

One morning, after a terrific storm, an old man is walking on the beach and, as the sun is beginning to rise, he sees in front of him, lying on the beach thousands and thousands of starfish that must have washed ashore due to the storm. As far as the eye can see, lay starfish, drying out and surely destined to die in the warming of the morning sun. And so ever so carefully, the old man stoops down and, one by one, begins to toss the starfish back into the sea so that they may survive. As he does this, he is seen by a much younger man who, eyeing the task in front of the old man, simply shakes his head in disbelief.

After a brief period, the younger man approaches the old man and says to him, "Old man, what are you doing? Don't you see that there are literally thousands of starfish washed up on this shore? What you are doing can never make a difference."

The old man, saddened by what he hears, stares straight into the eyes of the younger man. And, then, ever so carefully, he stoops down, picks up one more starfish, and casts it into the sea. He then turns to the younger man and responds,

Eisley

Original Story by: Loren

"To that one - I made a difference."

CAMP IS A FAMILY TRADITION

It will not be unusual for you to greet a camper, their parents and grandparents, aunts and uncles at Open House… and they all attended Hermann Sons Life Camp!It is a strength of our summer camp.

From this fraternal benefit and deep family roots grows another strength at Hermann Sons Life Camp, our CIT program. Our CIT program develops fifteen- and sixteen-year-old campers and grows them into our Junior Staff members who become counselors and then senior staffers.

Hermann Sons Life Camp is a family. While many of our team members are former campers who have grown through the CIT and Junior Staff program, like most Texans, (especially those in the Hill Country), we love meeting new staff members. New staff members help us evolve and grow as a camp. New staff members bring exciting new ideas and energy to our program.

We are excited to meet and greet new staff and look forward to incorporating their culture into camp.

TEXAS HILL COUNTRY & OUR CAMPERS

Our camp, and our campers come predominantly from Texas and the Hill County. Our campers exhibit what I believe (Ian Brassett) is the very best of camper behavior and manners that I have witnessed more than 30 years of camping!

Our campers, as I mentioned before, look forward to spending their week with us all year long. They love the activities, making new friends, reacquainting with their friends from the previous summer and most of all meeting their counselors. This year more than ever, our campers will be very excited to be here!

Our campers are raised to be respectful and considerate. It’s quite refreshing!

• You will hear lots of pleases and thank yous.

• You will hear a lot of Yes Sir or Yes Ma’am.

• You’ll witness most campers carrying their own luggage by choice!

It’s not about doing the same thing… its about doing the right thing. It’s about doing what’s in the best interest of the camper even if it means our job becomes harder.

MEET HERMANN!

Much like Hermann on the left hanging out at Riverside Camp, our camps hold many beloved traditions.

Many of them you will learn as we go along. Here’s a few things to mention.

RIVERSIDE AND HILLTOP CAMPS

Our camps are single-gender camps, known traditionally in camping circles as a brother–sister camp. The Riverside Camp is home of the original camp (1954) and currently home to our girl’s camp. Hilltop was built much later and is home to the boy’s camp. Geographically, between the two camps is Hermann Sons Life’s Retirement Community that houses approximately 30 Hermann Son Life members.

The two camps coordinate and help each other out with staffing activities (challenge, lifeguarding, transportation, CIT programming, etc.) along with Staff Development, which will be held on the Riverside Campus in 2023. Two of the more popular evening activities are when the two camps gather together.

The first gathering is on Monday where the boys travel to Riverside and for a CARNIVAL GAME NIGHT. The Game Night allows the boys and girls to socialize and mingle in a non-structured, friendly, no-pressure environment. This activity will be hosted by the CITs in 2023.

WE DANCE

The second gathering is the Dance. The campers and staff love to dance. Our weekly dance is held at Riverside on Wednesday night and brings together the Riverside (girls) and Hilltop (boys) camps. There will be time for our new staff to learn the line dances during the staff development week. Don’t panic! Over the course of the summer you will really get to know and love them! Many of the dances you can do even with two left feet.

During the dance, our campers and staff have a blast! I highly recommend you check out our YouTube Channel and subscribe.

Lucky, a former camper and former assistant director, put together a tutorial (with the help of many of our returning and former staff members) on some of the more popular line dances. Learn them in the comfort and privacy of your home before you arrive at camp! The link for the line dances is: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRhtPPY88bAaXmk1OjI2KCg

At Hilltop Camp, one way we teach our campers the dances is by playing the songs during our meal times. Often counselors will get up and dance and the campers will join in. Still, many of our campers believe that the best part of the dance are the cookies. " # $ %

WE SING

At Riverside especially, singing camp songs throughout the day is a fantastic part of the tradition that is Hermann Sons Life Camp. Pamela created some videos of our more popular songs that are sung at camp. If you are a CIT-2, Junior Staff, returner or coming in brand new to camp, I highly recommend you go to our YouTube channel and learn a few. Here’s the link to the YouTube Channel. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRhtPPY88bAaXmk1OjI2KCg

BEADS

For every year of attendance, both campers and staff receive a new colored bead. The Beads will tell your Hermann Sons Life Camp story. Camper beads are plastic. Staff beads are wooden. We’ll tell you more during staff development.

CAMP NAMES

All of our staff members (Including junior staff) will have Camp names. During staff development, you will hear many awesome stories on how current staff members got their names. Padre, Kenobi, Shankly, Nimbus, etc. " # $ % Before the campers arrive at camp, all counselors and junior staff will receive a camp name. This helps keep the mystique of the counselor and assists you in keeping a social media distance from the campers. Camp names can be earned, bestowed or chosen by the individual. They must all be approved by the Camp Director and once you receive a Camp name, it will live-on forever with your campers.

The name cannot be changed once bestowed.

BIRTHDAYS

Birthdays are special at Hermann Sons Life Camp. We will be making a big deal about campers’ (and staffers’) birthdays.

Before breakfast

• Senior counselors will decorate the camper’s table.

• The Birthday is announced on the morning radio show.

At breakfast

• The entire camp will sing a rousing rendition of the birthday song

• We will present the camper with a birthday cookie and ice cream.

• We will take a photo of the birthday camper and their cabin

• The Assistant Director will email/text the photo to their parents. This is a very difficult day for parents.

If a camper has a birthday on arrival day, we will celebrate the birthday at dinner.

CAMPER OF THE DAY

Every day we will be announcing the “Camper(s) of the Day” for each dorm. We are looking for the most deserving, most helpful, friendliest camper that embodies all aspects of camp.This camper will be acknowledged at one of the meals (TBD). All campers need to know why the individual camper received the award.

CAMPER OF THE WEEK

Each week we will be announcing a “Camper(s) of the Week for each dorm. We are looking for the most deserving, the friendliest campers, the most helpful, kindest, etc. At the end of week ceremony, this camper will be acknowledged and awarded a special orange bead

COUNSELOR FREE-DINNER / SURVEYS

We truly care about what our campers think about their experience at Camp. We will survey them twice each week. As the director of the program, I report the results weekly to the VP of Member Benefits They matter. I read every comment. We evaluate the surveys closely for trends. Campers are the most important group of individuals at Camp.

Counselors typically should get 4.75/5.00 averaged throughout the summer. That is our expectation. Do not prompt or beg the kids for 5s. If you do your job, care about the campers’ safety, their enjoyment and practice active supervision, the scores will reflect that. If you are here for yourself, go through the motions and do not care –the scores will reflect that too.

What is your disposition in front of the campers? Are you being positive? Are you complaining? Are you smiling?

How you say something is often more important than what you say! What is your tone?

CAMP STORE

Each cabin will be scheduled camp store time once a week. You will attend the Camp store as a cabin group. Please watch your campers, actively supervise and assist the Camp store person in-charge if asked. This is not free time!

DAILY SCHEDULE

Okay, so there is not actually such a thing as a typical day at camp. It does not exist. There are however some “parts” of the day that repeat themselves. This next page or two will cover these parts and your responsibilities as a cabin counselor.

DAILY PROGRAM

All staff members are assigned to work 5 periods each day. The activities you will be scheduled will be determined by the camper’s activity and elective choices and your own skills and certifications. Be enthusiastic, punctual and prepared.

The Daily Program will be divided into two parts.

The SPECIALTY Program is the traditional Hermann Sons Life Camp program where the camp schedules each camper three (3) activities that will be consistent throughout the week (Monday through Thursday). The camper selects their six (6) favorite activities before Camp begins. Before the camper arrives, our goal will be to give them their top-3 chosen activities. Again, this is the traditional way campers have selected their activities.

Ga-Ga –Everyone plays Ga-Ga!!!

Some activities will only be available in the SPECIALTY Program.

Examples of these activities are the Challenge Course, Rocketry and Kayaking.

In the Elective Program campers choose two electives each day. Maybe the campers want to hang out with a new friend or sibling. Perhaps they want to try an elective for the first time. Perhaps they are having a bad day and just want to attend the elective where their favorite counselor is teaching.

The electives will be typical camp offerings but designed to be stand-alone, single electives. An example of this would be dance. In the dance activity we teach campers one dance they work on every day. As a stand-alone elective we can offer campers a hip-hop class, or a line dance class or a ballet class, etc. With an elective program we can offer our campers manis and pedis on Thursday before the dance or a Magic the Gathering class. We can offer classes that relate to the theme of the week.

Elective offerings can and will be tailored to the campers as well as the individual skills a counselor may bring to the table. Perhaps our campers will want to try rugby, netball or Gaelic football taught by one of our overseas staff members. Perhaps we have a counselor that knows martial arts or one that can juggle.

•

If you have any ideas to improve the activities or electives, please let me know at ianb@hermannsonslife.org. Ideas and suggestions are always welcome.

• The elective program will be a little looser than the structured activities program. We will not, as a camp have an exact accounting of where each camper is at any given time. That’s OK. We will know, however, by starting the elective program immediately after a flagpole that each camper is present (taken by their dorm counselors). At the end of each elective program is a meal and there will be a head count.

What skills do you have that campers would enjoy learning?

CLEAN FOR ICE CREAM

Hermann Sons Life Camp’s maintenance staff will refill the sanitizer and restock the paper products on a daily basis. One of the daily chores for our counselors is to clean, disinfect and mop the bathrooms.

We do not expect you to pick up after the campers and other staff. Campers and counselors are required to do their part to keep the cabin clean. This is where Clean For Ice Cream comes in. There should be no items strewn across the bathroom. A few examples of the chores that campers and staff should expect to perform daily are sweeping, making their bed, taking out the trash, etc.

ICE CREAM SANDWICHES WILL BE GIVEN TO THE CLEANEST CABINS AT LUNCH ON FRIDAY!

Some TIPS on cabin clean-up…

• Don’t yell and scream at the campers. It does no good. Talk calmly to the campers.

• Lead by example. Make your bed, then you can work with the campers on their areas.

• Help campers that may require assistance. If you are in a cabin of younger campers the

FLAGPOLE

responsibility is on you to do most of the work.

• Use a job chart.

• Leave as a cabin group to activities.

• Sunscreen? Water bottles? Dressed appropriately for their activities?

Like many (if not most) camps in the United States, we gather around the flagpole in the morning and afternoon to raise and lower the American flag. At Hermann Sons Life we also raise and lower the Texas state flag. We repeat the pledge of allegiance and the Texas pledge every morning. While you are not required to say the pledge, we do expect all campers and staff to be respectful during flag raising and lowering by standing quietly facing the flag and taking off your hats!

The Pledge of Allegiance is I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with Liberty and Justice for all.

The Pledge of Allegiance to the Texas State flag is “Honor the Texas flag; I pledge allegiance to thee, Texas, one state under God, one and indivisible."

REST PERIOD

Texas is hot! Very hot! It is critically important that both campers and staff take full advantage of rest period. It is incredibly important to give the campers and staff the opportunity to recharge their batteries.While two staff members must always be awake with the campers at Rest Period, some staff will be scheduled free-time. It’s totally ok for those staff members to have some shut-eye while the staff working the dorm supervise the campers.

ACTIVE SUPERVISION

Relaxation and Rest Period is an incredible opportunity for you to “hang- out” with your campers. Get to know them. Ask questions. Be interested in them and their experience at camp. If you are not, scheduled “time off” then you are working. This is not time to be sleeping, using your i-pod, hanging out with your co-counselor or simply zoning out – you are to be actively supervising the campers in your care.

Relaxation and Rest Period (unstructured cabin time), statistically in camping, is the most dangerous time on camp. It is the camper’s rest period not yours. Campers many years from now will remember the counselors with great affection that braided their hair or simply sat next to them and talked with them. This is where the counselor’s true value and greatest impact on the life of a child happens.

During each session, a senior counselor/director may ask to speak with your campers alone (a little bonus free time). We are constantly evaluating our program and this time spent with your campers provides valuable feedback on our electives, scheduling and, of course, our counselors. These discussions usually

directly affect counselor evaluations and counselor of the session nominations.

Five minutes before the electives are scheduled to begin again, have your campers ready to leave the cabin.

RULE OF THREE

No staff member should ever be alone with a camper where others cannot see. This does not mean you cannot be at an activity (i.e. Gaga) alone with 15 campers. It means if you need to chat with a camper, you take them on the porch (where there is no expectation of privacy) rather than in the counselor room. It means you can enter the dorm with a bunch of campers but should never be 1:1 with a camper in a dorm.

TRADITIONAL CAMP SESSIONS

SIX SESSIONS will be the traditional summer camp sessions. This is where we will operate Riverside Camp for girls and Hilltop Camp for boys. Hiring has begun in earnest and we are very excited to discuss an exciting change in the programming.

These sessions will be:

Session Name Session Dates Theme CIT Schedule

Week #1 June 11 – June 17, 2023 NEON CIT-2 Week - NO JJC Week #2 June 18 – June 24, 2023

MARDI-GRAS CIT-2 Week - JJC Available Week #3 June 25 – July 1, 2023 HOGWARTS CIT-2 Week – JJC Available Week #4 July 9 – July 15, 2023

SUPER HEROES CIT-1 Week – JJC Available Week #5 July 16 – July 22, 2023

ANIMAL PLANET CIT-1 Week – JJC Available Week #6 July 23 – July 29, 2023 FIESTA CIT-1 Week – JJC Available

TWO MINI-CAMPS! In 2022 we had a waiting list early in the registration season for our Mini-Camp Program. This summer we will be adding a second mini-Camp. We love our junior members and are very excited to see more 8- and 9-year-olds in camp for their first summer camp experience.

These sessions will be:

Session Name Session Dates Theme CIT Schedule

Mini-Camp #1 (HELD ON RS)

Mini-Camp #2 (HELD ON HT)

July 5 – July 8, 2023

STARS & STRIPES

July 30 – Aug 2, 2023 HAWAIIAN HULLABALOO

GRIEF SUPPORT in 2023!

No CITs – RIVERSIDE CAMP

No CITs – HILLTOP CAMP

This year we will be operating two Grief Support sessions The first of these camps will be held during Spring Break. The second will be held during the summer.

FANCY FRIDAYS

Friday is the last full day at Camp.Counselors want to help the campers “blow their socks off ” and finish the week with a bang!

EXCITING NEW FRIDAY ACTIVITY! In 2023 we will be introducing a brilliant, new event on Friday. The program is called BRAGGING RIGHTS! During Staff Training, our counselors will be setting some “HERMANN SONS LIFE RECORDS” in more than 25-30 different, fun activities.

On Friday morning, the girls will travel to Hilltop camp and then all the campers will try to break these records! We’ll keep track of camper and counselor records throughout the summer and post in the Hermann Sons Life newspaper who has Bragging Rights! During the elective classes, we will offer opportunities for campers to try some of these activities. I want to see all the records broken by the campers.

While this activity is running, we’ll also offer campers the opportunity for free swim, gaga and crafts. We’ll also launch all of our Riverside and Hilltop camper rockets! After a morning of fun activities, we’ll have a joint bbq lunch before the girls head back to Riverside for rest period and REDNECK WATER GAMES in the afternoon.

In the afternoon, after lunch and rest period on Hilltop, we’ll play some water games and “Minute-To-Win-It” style games with a big water balloon fight to wrap up an awesome afternoon.

As we will be adding this third joint camp activity on Friday morning, we will be moving the GAME NIGHT to MONDAY NIGHT and the DANCE to WEDNESDAY NIGHT.

EVENING ACTIVITIES

The highlight of the day for many campers is the evening activity. Counselors are expected to be actively involved in the evening activity and will be given an assignment by the Program Assistants.

Evening Activities change each week. As previously mentioned there will be two activities that are the cornerstones of the week. Game Night and the Dance.

Hosting for these two activities are shared by the camps.

Enthusiasm is key. Participation is important. Counselors are expected to dress-up if there is a theme and participate in competitions during the nightly activities.

Campers love seeing their counselors participating and having fun. It allows them the freedom to join in. If their counselor is dressing up for the theme of the dance, they are much more likely to dress up.

Like all activities on camp – the dorm counselors are critical to the success of the summer. It does not matter who the director is. If the counselors are having fun and invest their energy and care for the campers – the kids will leave camp having had the best time. The dorm counselors are the most important piece of the summer camp puzzle

TAPS

Each night, at the end of the evening activity, each camp gathers and perform taps. It’s an awesome way of calming the campers down before heading back to the dorms for the friendship circles, showers and bed. Many of you will have heard taps before on the trumpet. These are the words. At the end of taps, the Lord’s prayer is said. Much like the pledge of allegiance, you do not need to sing Taps or say the Lord’s Prayer, however, please be respectful for those of us who do.

Day is done, Gone the sun, From the lakes, From the hills, From the sky. All is well, Safely rest, God is nigh

Thanks and praise, For our days. 'Neath the sun, 'Neath the stars, 'Neath the sky, As we go, This we know, God is nigh

GRATEFUL (FRIENDSHIP) CIRCLES / LIGHTS-OUT

After Taps we head back to the dorms. Before entering the dorm, we gather in a circle (or small circles) and say one thing we are grateful for from the day. Using a calm voice, set the standard of respect for everyone in the circle. Before breaking the circle lay out the expectations for shower time and lights out.

We all have curfews. his can be the hardest part of the day for a counselor. You will be tired and your patience has worn thin. The light-out times and curfews are in place to help everyone get through a long summer. You’ll thank us in the long run! Some tips on getting your campers to bed at a reasonable time…

• Be consistent with your co-counselors. No one benefits from a different set of rules being enforced by each counselor.

• Establish rules the first-night and follow them.

• Do not sit on your bed with your headphones on, writing a letter and yelling for quiet and think you are doing your job! You’re not. Walk around the cabin when you are trying to settle the

campers down. Use their names. Acknowledge when the campers are quiet with a quiet “thank you and good night.”

• Never leave the cabin unsupervised.

• Do any of your campers need to take evening meds?

THE HILL COUNTRY

Hermann Sons Life Camp is located in the beautiful Hill Country and provides our overseas staff an opportunity to explore an incredibly unique part of the United States. A few ideas are listed below.

SUGGESTED CLOTHING LIST

• At least 6 each of shirts, shorts, socks and underwear

• Swimsuit

• Light jacket

• Hat or cap

• Pajamas

• 2 sets of single sheets, pillow with case

• Blanket or sleeping bag

• 2 towels and wash cloths

• Swim towel

• Laundry bag (washing machines and detergent are provided by camp)

• Toiletry items (soap, shampoo, toothbrush and paste, etc.)

• Sunscreen and lip balm

• Something to wear to the Camp dance. See themes listed in the list of camp sessions.

• Tennis shoes

• Shower shoes

• Sturdy sandals

• Sunglasses

• Black or Navy Blue athletic shorts for Sat/Sun. (Nikes are OK)

• Camping chair

• Watch

• Flashlight (torch)

• Jeans (for OLS activity)

Please note: Camp provides all sporting equipment. Every staff member will receive a Hermann Sons Life Camp water bottle upon arrival. Camp assumes no responsibility for loss or damage to personal items

CAMP APP

In the spring, we will be asking that our staff download our Camp App. This app will be utilized for emergency communications, posting photos, scheduling and so much more. MORE LATER.

Parents will need to download the Hermann Sons Life App in order to keep in touch during their child’s week at Camp.

Camp staff will use the Camp App to post lots of photos during the week. The App is also used by parents to access the one-way email system.

We will also use the App to communicate with parents during the week. For example, if for some reason we must close Camp, we will send a push notification on the App that will go to all parents who have the App.

Parents will receive a code for downloading the App when they register their child for Camp.

© Hermann Sons Life Camp 2023

THE HERMANN SONS LIFE CAMP STAFF CREED

CUSTOMER FIRST

We provide the highest level of service to all customers.

o We provide accurate, unbiased and courteous responses to all guests

o Customers eat first

o We are a trash-free environment

o Phone answered before the 2nd ring with a happy tone of voice

PROFESSIONALISM

Hermann Sons Life Camp expects a professional approach at all times. The criteria for professionalism include:

o Emotional maturity

o Recognition of the seriousness of the position.

o Ability to defer personal matters in favor of the customers.

o Positive interpersonal communication.

o Ability to assume authority when necessary.

o Tolerance for stress and the ability to handle emergencies.

o Ability to provide for an individual’s need in a

group setting.

o Professional in appearance.

o Professional in attendance.

o Represent yourself professionally when wearing camp clothing.

o Respect supplies and equipment.

o Leave a clean work area at the end of the day/ project.

PERSONAL GROWTH

We strive for excellence in the profession by maintaining and enhancing our own knowledge and skills, by encouraging the professional development of co-workers, and by fostering the aspirations of potential members of the profession.

POSITIVE WORK ENVIRONMENT

o We treat co-workers and other colleagues with respect, dignity, fairness and good faith.

o We advocate conditions of employment that safeguard the rights and welfare of all employees.

o There is no acceptable alternative to honesty.

o No harassment or discrimination.

o Drug and smoke-free work environment.

o Clean Communication: All individual companies work to one goal – be successful. Issues and situations may arise that cause negative feeling between individuals and companies. These should be discussed openly and freely between department heads. Gossip and negativity have never solved a problem.

PERSONAL ACCOUNTABILITY

We will all be held accountable for our actions and choice.

AMERICAN CAMP ASSOCIATION

Accreditation is an educational process of self-examination and peer review. American Camp Association accreditation is just one more example of our Camp’s continuing desire to provide our children and staff with a safe and memorable camping experience. to the highest standards established for the camping industry. Although there are many state and federal laws and regulations that address basic safety concerns, ACA standards go a step further in addressing specific areas of the camp program. ACA camps have met or exceeded nearly 300 standards evaluating camp’s site and food service, transportation, health and wellness, operational management, human resources, program design and activities, aquatics, and other professional practices.

As part of the accreditation process, at least once every five years teams of two or more trained camp professionals, known as visitors, observe Camp’s operation while in session and compare its practices with the standards of the industry. There are many benefits to being an ACA accredited camp. The accreditation process sets a format for continuing the high standards of Camp even though leadership may change. Through arrangements with private carriers, property, casualty, and liability insurance is available at a discount for accredited camps. Parents often look for the ACA logo when choosing a summer camp for their children. Hermann Sons Life is one of the few fraternal benefit societies to operate a residential youth camp as a benefit to its members and their communities. The commitment to quality programming is evident through its long-time accreditation through the American Camp

HERMANN SONS LIFE CAMP GUIDE TO CAMP COUNSELING

Be curious, not judgmental!

This summer, we will have the most diverse staff in Hermann Sons Life Camp’s history. The core of our staff is, and will always be, the returning staff. Most of our counselors have grown up at Hermann Sons Life Camp from camper to CIT to counselor. Adding new faces from around the world will help our mission to provide a quality summer camp which will enrich our camper’s summer camp experience.

I have enjoyed speaking with all our incoming staff members and I am confident in your personality and ability to be a wonderful camp counselor. Counseling campers is a tough job. You might get frustrated when the kids aren’t listening. You might feel like all your efforts are wasted and you’re not accomplishing anything. Be assured, your efforts aren’t wasted and you are making a difference.

You will impact the kids every minute of the day. It's just not immediately visible! The starfish story mentioned earlier is told in the context of "making a difference" - which is what we want our staff to do in the life of each child in their care.

This guide is prepared to help all our staff get ready for our campers and make 2023 Hermann Sons Life Camp the best ever!

HIGH EXPECTATIONS

By Ian Brassett

Everything we do at Hermann Sons Life Camp is built around the premise of “What

We hire the best staff. We operate our elective activities in the safest possible manner. We will be ruthless in the standards we set for our staff and ourselves

Our counselors have a lot to live up to when it comes to giving the campers the best possible summer camp experience. Our campers will come to expect more than just a regular camp experience. Hermann Sons Life Camp is home away from home.

What are these high expectations? Who will be judging us?

As a counselor, you are evaluated throughout the summer. You are evaluated by 4 different bodies:

Campers Parents Camp Directors Activity Supervisors

The campers will evaluate the summer camp program every week. During our dinner on Friday evening, our campers will experience a counselor-free meal. During this meal they will complete a survey scoring their experience at Hermann Sons Life Camp. They will be asked their opinion on the daily activities, the food, the evening activities, their counselors and their overall camp experience.

My promise to the campers is that only three people read these surveys! The directors and I. This is nothing to be afraid of! Be yourself. Do your job and you have nothing to fear from these surveys. These surveys in the past have really helped the programs I have directed improve significantly. They help me and the directors to ensure counselors are placed with the right age-group and co-counselors and we offer the campers the right activities.

The parents of our campers will also get their say. One week after the campers have left Hermann Sons Life Camp, we will send each parent a survey monkey questionnaire. This questionnaire mirrors the questionnaire the campers receive. In the past, when conducting these surveys, the results typically mirror closely to the results from the campers. Campers tell their parents everything. (AD.31)

The Camp directors and senior counselors will evaluate your performance and work within the cabin. Do you put the campers needs ahead of your own? Are you practicing “active supervision?” Are you a good co-counselor? The form can be found in the Admin. Policies section of the manual.

Our expectations for our staff are in line with the expectations of the campers and their parents. We will work with each of our staff members to get their performance level to where it needs to be.

I do not expect perfection. I do, however, expect perfect intentions.

If you are working hard, putting the campers’ needs first and follow the rules and regulations…you will succeed. You will grow as an individual. You will learn more about yourself and your capabilities than you have ever known before. Be yourself and you will be great!!!

Kids want one thing from their counselor

– BE KIND!

is in the best interest of the campers?”

A PROFESSIONAL CAMP COUNSELOR ALWAYS…

• Respects the campers. They are the most important people at camp.

• Practices active supervision

• Displays a positive attitude.

• Is a positive role model.

o Role Model the behavior expected.

§ Manners, please and thank you.

§ Punctuality, dress appropriately for their activities and evening events, etc.,

§ Follows established DORM rules.

§ If it’s “do as I say,” it also has to be “do as I do.”

• Learns and uses the camper’s name.

o Do not nickname the campers. One trick to remembering a camper’s name is to repeat it back to them once they have introduced themselves.

• LISTENS!

o Get down to the camper’s level and listen not only to the words, but to the feelings of the camper. “Squat with tots, lean with teens”.

o Reinforce by repeating what you have heard and your understanding.

o Ask the camper to repeat back to you what you said and asked for, or just instructed. Take care to do this in a way that does not humiliate them in front of other children.

o Ask open-ended questions.

§ This helps the camper to solve their problem,or arrive at the “right” conclusion.

• Is consistent in the application of rules.

o Treat all campers the same.

o Do not correct a co-counselor in front of the campers. Address in private.

• Uses mistakes as opportunities to learn. Don’t make the camper feel that his mistakes are sins.

o Focus on the behavior not the essence of the camper. Never make the camper feel small or inconsequential.

o Sarcastic humor won’t endear you to the campers and won't get them to do what you want.

o Don’t correct the camper in front of other campers if possible.

o Don’t ever think that it is beneath your dignity to apologize to the camper.

• Allows for transitions:

o Allow 3-5 minute warning - do countdowns.

o Problem with tardiness? Always late? Set the alarm clock forward 5 minutes.

o Allow or build in extra time

• Keeps instructions simple.

o Use the same phrases and order of events for clean-up and similar kinds of activities.

o Realize that experience is 10 times more effective than words. Be as “concrete” as possible.

• Gives immediate, positive feedback.

o Be specific with praise.

o Don’t let your praise lose its quality and value.

o Build your camper’s self-esteem.

o Catch the camper doing something right!

o Genuine praise, a “pat on the back” or a “high five” is a great boost to a camper in building self-confidence.

o Be free, but genuine with your praise.

• Allows “down time” for campers to decompress.

o Prompt them to do so.

o Don’t expect campers to do this on their own.

• Uses touch when talking or instructing campers.

o Hand on shoulder, upper arm, upper back, even holding a younger child’s hand.

• Anticipates:

o Observe which times are most stressful for your campers (e.g., cabin clean-up, rest hour, evening, getting ready for bed)

o Build strategies to deal with or get extra help during those times.

• Encourages campers to participate.

o Participation itself is a great reward.

o Recognition of success that follows will be an even greater reward.

o Everyone can be successful at something; you can put that “something” within reach of every camper.

• Knows exactly where each of their campers are and who they are with.

© Hermann Sons Life Camp 2023

AN UN-PROFESSIONAL CAMP COUNSELOR…

• Congregates and socializes with other staff.

o Planning for nights-off and days-off takes precedent over actively supervising the campers and the campers’ best interests.

o Feels that the campers are an intrusion on their summer!

• Discusses personal problems or experiences in front of campers.

o Gossips with campers regarding other staff and personal relationships.

o Discretion and private are two words not in their vocabulary.

• Encourages campers to “do as I say” while breaking the rules.

• Hangs-out with their favorite campers.

• Takes great pleasure in labeling the bad kids and does not care who knows about it.

• Constantly Complains

o Sets their world right by explaining in great detail about how bad things are.

o Explains to people who cannot make change how they would run the camp differently.

o Does not use the chain of command.

• Does not learn their camper’s names and does not show any sign of interest in knowing the camper as an individual.

• Believes in the “Lord of the Flies” mentality.

o In 1954, William Holding wrote this classic book. I highly recommend you read this book.

o The Lord of the Flies is basically where a counselor allows campers to govern themselves rather than an adult practicing Active Supervision.

• Brings their own food to the camp dining hall “because the food here sucks ”

• Upon the camper’s arrival, tells them they can do what they want as long as they don’t get caught and don’t disturb them while they are sleeping.

• Uses threats, poor language, their size and sarcasm as management tools.

• Succumbs to “Regressive Pull”.

o When a staff person's group pulls his maturity level backwards. Especially with older kids, staff are more tempted to push the limits to impress their group and gain their acceptance. This is especially true if the counselor and group are close in age.

• Repositions safety equipment or staff to make things easier without thinking about the consequences.

• Disregards and/or disrespects their supervisor.

• Does not ask questions or ask for help.

TOP 21 THINGS CAMPERS SAY THEIR FAVORITE COUNSELORS

DO AT CAMP

This survey was done on the feedback of campers from multiple camps through the American Camping Association.

1. Spend time with them even when they don't have to.

2. Sits and talks with them taking an interest in what they say (listen!)

3. Discipline with respect (take them aside when possible, avoid teasing, avoid humiliating them)

4. Sing, laugh or talk with them on the way from place to place.

5. Think up fun or crazy things to do with them.

6. Are actively involved in camp activities (Cheer! Play! Encourage!)

7. Are enthusiastic – they focus on the positive.

8. Role model the expected behavior. Show them. Help them. Assist younger campers with their towels and clothes. Drink water at the dining table. Wake up on time.

9. Participate in clean up.

10. Read to them at night.

11. Make sure children go to bed having been listened to/validated.

12. Stay in the bunk until the last problem is solved.

13. Will wait ten minutes when a friend (peer) needs the time to help a camper.

14. Get up out of bed to get the kids up in the morning.

15. Make sure kids all have food before they start to eat.

16. Give kids choices (within reasonable limits)

17. Often place themselves in the middle of a group of campers. Use inventive or creative ways to help each camper be part of the group.

18. Tell them when they are going on a day off and when they will be back again.

19. Address them by their first names.

20. Praise the group. Be specific in your praise.

21. SMILE A LOT. J

RESPONSIBILITIES OF A CABIN COUNSELOR

“In Loco parentis”

“In loco parentis” is Latin meaning in the place of a parent. The legal doctrine under which an individual assumes parental rights, duties, and obligations without going through the formalities of legal adoption Being a cabin counselor is a huge job, but there is a reason you were chosen as capable of mastering this task. The following are a list of responsibilities as the Cabin Counselor. This list will help you guide the children towards an exciting, memorable and safe adventure at Hermann Sons Life Camp!

• Upon the campers first time entering the cabin have a “Cabin Members Meeting.” CREATE the cabin rules together and allow campers time to ask questions about anything they don’t understand. (See Cabin Rules).

• Give a tour to show them where all the bathrooms, showers, and shelving for personal possessions are, Also, ask if anyone needs to use the facilities before sitting as a group to cover the rules and learn every camper’s name.

• Explain the schedule. Be aware of what activities your campers have chosen to ensure that they are prepared. For example: make sure they have sunscreen, lip balm, carry a full water bottle, wear appropriate footwear, have a bathing suit if needed, etc. LEAD BY EXAMPLE.

• At meal line-ups, be early so you can participate in the songs. Remember to have fun, too. If the kids see that you are participating and having fun they are likely to do the same. Ask them open questions about their morning or afternoon activities! LEAD BY EXAMPLE.

• Sit with your dorm at all meals.Enjoy conversation and get to know each member of your group. Also make sure they stay seated, are reasonably quiet, maintain respect for other tables, listen when group announcements are made and clean up.

• Always be present both mentally and physically with your cabin during free time. “Active supervision”

• To prevent the kids from becoming homesick, keep them active. Do not let them just sit around during free-time. Play games, tell jokes or riddles, braid hair... Active supervision should prevent any potential harassment between campers. Should this occur contact administration immediately. Hermann Sons Life Camp does not tolerate disrespect between campers.

• Prevent discipline problems by being clear and fair with the entire group. Be as clear as possible when filling out an Incident Report Form.

• Resolve disagreements before they become a serious issue. Discuss the problem with the kids and see if they can come up with reasonable solutions of any dispute.

• Remind the kids to brush their teeth and they must SHOWER EVERYDAY! EVERY child must follow this guideline. Please talk with Administration if a child refuses to shower. Note: Campers are not allowed to shower in the cabin together, not even in bathing suits.

• Turn lights out on time or early.

• Wake up no later than 7:45 a.m. Please do not be late for breakfast.

• Encourage the kids to conserve water by taking shorter showers and by not letting the water run while they are brushing their teeth.

• Turn all lights off (except the outside light at night) when you leave the cabin.

• Ensure windows and doors are shut when not in use.

• Keep the thermostat at 74 degrees.

• Don’t hesitate to ask for help if you are frustrated or just need a quick five-minute reliever. Notify the Administration Team of any inappropriate (camper or staff) behavior or when you need any help with a homesick child or any illness that may occur.

• Never leave a cabin group alone.

• Have FUN!

GUIDELINES FOR CAMPER INTERACTION

(ST.29.1)

• It is the duty of each counselor to provide the best instruction and leadership through knowledge, understanding, and applied ability.

• The camper’s and Camp’s best interests are kept in mind.

• Do not discuss personal problems or experiences in front of any campers. Do not discuss other staff and personal relationships in front of campers.

• Remember, your example is what the campers will follow. Always be a role model.

• Encourage campers to participate; participation itself is a great reward. Recognition of success that follows will be an even greater reward. Everyone can be successful at something; you can put that “something” within reach of every camper.

• Counselors should ALWAYS follow the bathing suit rule. A staff member should never touch a camper in any area of their body that is or could be covered by a bathing suit.

• Genuine praise, a “pat on the back” or a “high five” is a great boost to a camper in building self- confidence. Be free, but genuine with your praise.

• Children are praised less frequently when they do things right (as opposed to criticism when they do it wrong). Recognize positive moments.

• Catch the campers doing something right every day.

• People judge our program by what they see. A well-organized activity can have a very positive impact.

• Remember, we are constantly in the public view, both on and off-property.

• Never discuss a camper with anyone other than involved staff members or administrative staff. Discuss problems discreetly and privately. Be careful when referring to campers in public places; never use their last names.

• Be professional at all times with regard to your job.

• If anything out of the ordinary occurs, discuss it with the Director so as to avoid misunderstandings and exaggerations. Always fill out an incident report form.

• Be constantly aware of each camper as an individual and know his/her interests. Do not let him/her get lost in the group, but make them feel a part of it. Refer any serious problems to the Director.

• Public relations are an important part of our job. Go out of your way to be courteous to everyone with whom you come in contact. Greet your campers’ parents and when possible keep them informed about their campers’ stay.

• Upon the camper’s arrival, it is important to try to be more than a camper’s “friend” as this will come naturally from mutual respect. Be fair with the campers. Be honest and lead them with enthusiasm.

TIPS FOR CABIN COUNSELORS/INSTRUCTORS

(ST.29.1)

Regardless of how hard you try to make your campers cooperate and work together, you may find yourself frustrated if the only way to get your kids to do the things you want them to is to NAG. Instead, there are many POSITIVE TACTICS you can utilize. Keep in mind though, no single technique works every time.

• Establish a rapport with the camper. This involves seeing things from the camper’s perspective.For instance, teens will often magnify the smallest thing and may be devastated by actions that you will shrug off.

• Keep your instructions simple and consistent. Campers need to know what is expected of them.

• Ask open-ended questions. This will often help the camper to solve his own problem, or arrive at the “right” conclusion.

• Build your camper’s self-esteem. Catch the camper doing something right!

• Be specific with praise. Don’t let your praise lose its quality and value.

• Lead by example. If it’s “do as I say,” it must also be “do as I do.”

• Never make the camper feel small or inconsequential. Sarcastic humor won’t endear you to the campers and won't get them to do what you want.

• Don’t correct the camper in front of other campers if possible.

• Focus on the behavior not the essence of the camper.

• Be consistent.

In summary when living in a dorm.

1. Always explain the rules.

2. Always apply the rules.

3. Be consistent in your treatment of all children.

4. Model the rules.

5. Smile and most importantly…

• Recognize when you are wrong and when a camper is correct.

• Use countdowns: Give 5 – 10 minute warnings for lights-out, leaving the cabin, end of meal, etc.

• If you have a slow cabin of kids, build in extra time (prompt these children to start earlier) to be on time.

• Keep the MORE DIFFICULT child closer to you (at meals, in line-up). Close physical proximity helps make their routine consistent.

• Use the same phrases and order of events for clean-up and similar kinds of activities

• Give immediate feedback. Make your feedback positive

• Use touch when talking to or instructing a camper. A flat hand on: o Hand on shoulder o upper arm or o upper back

• Ask the camper to repeat back to you what you said or asked for or just instructed. Take care to do this in a way that does not humiliate them in front of other children.

6. Ask for help If you need a break, if you’re dealing with a child’s difficult behavior… YOU ARE NOT ALONE!

ARRIVAL DAYS

(AD 4.1)

At Hermann Sons Life Camp we have EIGHT SEPARATE ARRIVAL DAYS. That means on EIGHT separate days we have campers that have been looking forward to camp all year! They will be excited. They will be enthusiastic. They may be a little scared. They may be a little nervous. Our job is to match their enthusiasm and excitement. High energy and enthusiasm is critical on arrival day.

STAFF ARRIVAL

Staff are expected to arrive at camp at 11:30 a.m. A staff meeting will be held in the respective dining halls at 11:45 a.m. Breakfast tacos will be provided. Please be punctual.

CHECK-IN

To reduce the number of families on-site at any given time, we have advised parents that there will be a STAGGERED ARRIVAL

TIME FOR EACH DORM

.

Campers will not be permitted to enter camp before their scheduled arrival time. Families with multiple campers in attendance at the same camp, should plan their arrival at the later scheduled time. We will be staggering the arrival of campers by dorm from the oldest to the youngest dorms.

PARENTS WILL BE ASKED NOT TO LEAVE THEIR VEHICLE DURING DROP-OFF. Check-in will be a series of stops conducted by our senior and medical staff. Our counselors will be assigned to their dorms. We know this is a difficult thing to ask our parents, but exceptions cannot be made.

HILLTOP RIVERSIDE

© Hermann Sons Life Camp 2023

MEDICATION DROP-OFF

After the initial stop at the gates, parents will then go to the edication drop-off. This is where parents can speak with our medical staff and drop-off their child’s medications.

CAMPER GOODBYES AND LUGGAGE DROP-OFF

At this spot, our (you) enthusiastic and smiling staff will help collect all luggage from the trunk and the camper. Parents are asked not leave the vehicle. Say your goodbyes in the car.

Our staff members will then escort the camper to the dorm – talking and engaging with them. What’s their name? Where are they from? Is this their first year? What activities are they interested in?

Once at the dorm, they will walk them inside and introduce them to their counselors and allow the camp experience to begin. THEY MUST MAKE A HAND-OFF. It is not enough to get them to the dorm, nor just inside. Ensure a counselor is helping them. Ensure a counselor greets them. Introduce them!

COUNSELING STAFF

During the scheduled arrival times the dorm counselors (4-5), the dorm’s senior counselor and a number of CITs will be assigned to that dorm will be present. THE CAMPER WILL NEVER BE ALONE. These staff are to actively engage with the campers; help them unpack, orientate the campers to the dorm, review their activity schedule and most importantly introduce them to their new friends in the dorm.

HEAD-FEET

All beds have an assigned allocation of where the pillow is to be placed on the bed. Please make sure that this is followed.

CAMPER ACTIVITIES

Upon arrival in the dorm, the camper will go to their assigned bed. At each bed there will be a copy of their activities for the week. If a camper is unhappy with their activity choices – do not dismiss it! Our goal in running an elective program is to give the campers 3 of their top 6 activity choices. It is not always possible. Reassure the camper, and on the camp tour make sure you go to the Program Director (located… TBD) and ensure the camper speaks to them. It may be a simple fix and can be changed immediately! It may take the program director a little while to make the necessary change. This topic will be covered in greater detail during staff development and in the CORE ACTIVITY MANUAL.

MUSIC

An arrival day playlist will be playing during arrival day. Do you have any suggestions for music to be played at camp? It must be upbeat, convey a sense of fun and obviously be appropriate. Email me at ianb@hermannsonslife.org if you’d like some of your favorite tunes to be played on arrival day, in the morning shows, at the dance and during meals.

CANTEEN

There will be no canteen scheduled on arrival day.

FIRE DRILL

(ST.23.1)

On arrival day, we will be scheduling a fire drill. As a dorm you will be asked to line up in a straight line with ONE COUNSELOR at the head and ONE COUNSELOR at the rear of the dorm. The ASSISTANT CAMP DIRECTOR or CAMP DIRECTOR will ask the counselor at the head of each dorm how many campers and staff they have in-line. BE ACCURATE.

• Answer “We have X# campers and X# staff”.

• X# campers have not arrived and # staff member is off-off. List their names.

• Any campers scheduled to attend camp, that are a no-show at the flagpole will be called at this time by the camp director (or their designee). (AD.23.2)

• At this fire drill we will announce the location for all campers and staff to meet for emergencies. (AD 19.1)

SAFETY ORIENTATION

(AD.19.1)

Once we have an accurate count of the campers and staff, the Camp Director (or the Assistant Director) will welcome the campers and review the safety orientation for the campers. The safety orientation must cover:

• Campers must always be supervised. (FA 13.1)

• Campers must stay within the fenced area (on camp grounds).

• Campers are welcome to enjoy the activity sites during the scheduled activity periods and only when a qualified instructor is actively supervising them. (FA 13.1)

• No food or drink (except water) should be taken in the cabins.

• Camp is a safe zone: Treat others as you wish to be treated.

• The counselors and staff are here for you!

• For your safety, do not leave your cabin after curfew.

• Please use sunscreen. Wear a hat! Drink lots of water!

• All medications must be turned into the clinic. This includes Advil, Tylenol and vitamins. You may carry your rescue inhaler and epi-pen.

• Not feeling great? Go to the clinic after breakfast, lunch and dinner. Clinic is open 24/7.

• Always carry a water bottle with you.

SUNDAY

DORM

MEETING – Set expectations.

Once campers have become somewhat familiar with you as their counselor, with the other guys or gals in the cabin, it’s time to sit down and establish a few simple “rules.”

Having some cabin or group guidelines is a way to establish expectations about behavior and norms around what is acceptable and what is not. Setting the right tone in camp starts with the cabin rules.

• How do you and your co-counselor intend to operate within the cabin?

• What will this process tell the campers about the week to come?

Campers do not like meetings. Be prepared. Talk to your co-counselors about how you will implement the camp rules. The rules you and the campers agree to must be enforced consistently between all counselors in the cabin.

• What is your flashlight policy?

• What is your wake-up policy?

• Can campers talk after lights out?

• Can campers play cards at night with flashlights?

HOLDING THE MEETING

• Review the Emergency exit/Safety plan located inside the dorm on the bulletin board. * (AD. 19.1) (ST. 23)

• Have all counselors present (where possible). Do not sit next to each other. Sit opposite each other. This way you can see all of the campers.

• Make sure all the campers are present.

• Introduce the discussion.These are guidelines to ensure they have a fantastic stay!

• Have paper with you.

• Take the process seriously. Do not allow goofy rules or joke rules into the process. Write them down, but do not allow them to get “On the

INTRODUCING THE MEETING

• Are campers allowed to leave the cabin individually in the morning or after rest period or do you leave as a cabin?

board”.

• Indicate one person talks at a time.

• Everyone listens with respect.

• May want to have an object that can act as a talking stick.

• Write down all suggestions while in a brainstorming format.

• What do they think would be good rules?

Hermann Sons Life Camp takes the approach that in order for campers to feel safe they must know and understand the parameters of their stay. A smaller, shy camper may not feel comfortable their entire stay if they are not sure what rules and regulations are applied to their fellow campers in the cabin.

“Since we are going to be living together or spending time together for the next several days, we need some guidelines about how we want to be treated and how we treat others.” Rules and regulations are in place to ensure the campers have a safe, fantastic week.

At the end of the initial process, indicate they have done a great job. For the next important step of writing up the cabin rules and regulations and posting them, keep this in mind:

CABIN RULE BASICS

Cabin rules must be:

• Observable

(ST.25.1)

o Please keep your hands and feet to yourself.

• Enforceable

o We cannot force everyone to be friends, but we can enforce behavioral expectations

• Logical

o Why is it a rule? What is the logic to the rule?

• Input from campers

IN ADDITION

• Keep the rules to 6 or less.

• Cabin rules must be simple, clear & posted

• Cabin rules should be stated in the positive, as opposed to the negative

CONSEQUENCES

o The campers need to own the rules.

• Positive action

o Instead of no name-calling use “Call others by their real name”

o Replace No or don’t.

• Categorize similar rules

• Have the campers and staff initial the board.

There is no point in having rules if we do not enforce them. It is important that as counselors and upper staff that we understand that consequences are:

• Fair

• Consistent

• Diminish unwanted behavior

• Progress in severity

The application of the rules and regulations of Hermann Sons Life Camp must be considered. Over-reacting and emotional responses to situations are not conducive to a fair and consistent approach to the campers. It is not PC to say it, but some campers are more likable than others. That is a fact that no one can dispute and the likability factor can play into every decision we make… potentially.

A well-liked camper may be given the benefit of the doubt for the exact behavior that you report another camper to the Senior Counselor for. This is neither fair nor consistent. Campers notice this. This is not acceptable.

This is where being professional and deliberate with your interactions with the campers is essential. All the campers in the dorm will notice if you apply the rules evenly. All of the campers will respect you more for doing so.

Returning staff members are more likely to have a tougher time being fair and consistent with the application of the rules and regulations due to the

• Discussed with the campers

• Doled out respectfully

• Age appropriate

relationships that they built up in previous years with some of the campers.

Hermann Sons Life Camp will judge the actions and appropriate consequences on a case-by-case basis. We always consider the many factors when deciding what consequence is appropriate and applicable. Group management techniques will be discussed during staff development. Under no circumstances do we use physical punishments (push-ups, sit-ups, etc.) nor do we remove the camper from activities and prevent them from having snack or meals.

Consequences are best when they are appropriate. If someone is cutting in line, ask them to move to the back of the line. If a camper consistently cuts in discuss with the Senior Counselor. If someone drops litter deliberately have them pick up trash around camp If someone is heard swearing, ask them to watch their language. If they swear or use unacceptable language at camp consistently – a phone call home is appropriate.

IDENTIFYING CAMPER BEHAVIOR – HOMESICKNESS

(SD. 21.1D)

It’s normal… and expected! Every camper and most staff members if they are being truly honest, get homesick from time to time during the summer. It is NOT unnatural for a child to feel isolated and alone and to MISS the comfort and security of their home, their dog, their parents.

Experiencing homesickness is actually one of the true benefits of a summer camp stay. This is not a bad thing. As a counselor, you should not treat campers as “lepers.” A homesick child should be viewed upon as a challenge to be embraced. We can all be great counselors to kids who are having a great time with no obvious signs of issues. What stands great counselors apart is their ability to work with campers that are not easy. Campers that require a little more attention. Campers that need the care and compassion of a well-trained counselor. Many times, a camper will arrive at camp pre-disposed to having a difficult transition to camp. Parents will unknowingly set their child up to fail at camp.

• “The home will be empty without you”

• “I don’t know what I’ll do without you!”

While well intentioned and heartfelt it will ensure the child will have guilty feelings if they start having a good time while their parent will be crying at home because they miss them so much! Remember a time you have been homesick?

Campers coming from good homes with loving parents are surely going to miss that environment when

• they are placed in a cabin with strangers…

• their routines are drastically altered…

• everyone else speaks a strange language

• first time away from home

• their counselor has a strange accent and is telling them to hurry up and get out of the shower.

• but especially if there is a camper or campers making their life miserable.

Some of the different reasons that a child might be homesick?

• divorced parent situation and missing time with a parent while at Camp

• previous poor experience at a camp

• worried about parents or family back home

• recent death in the family

• a friend or sibling is at camp with them and homesick

• a camper who genuinely does not want to be at camp.

A FEW THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN DISCUSSING HOMESICKNESS

1. It is not unusual… It’s normal.

2. There is no cure all. Just like the reasons for homesickness, there is no one solution… or is there?

3. FRIENDS. The most important part of helping a camper through their homesickness is for them to make friends. If a camper is having fun with their friends in the dorm, are with a counselor who cares about them and their primal needs are being met (Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs) then they are less likely to show overt signs of homesickness and more likely to join in and participate.

4. As a counselor, your primary job concerning homesickness is to create a safe, caring environment. Provide the campers an environment free of bullying and peer pressure by actively supervising the campers.

• Listening to the interactions within the cabin group.

• Leading the campers in group activities.

• Knowing your campers…are they in camp alone?

• Creating an environment where friendships develop easily.

5. It is counter-productive to pull a homesick camper out of the cabin group for extended periods of time. They need to develop friendships and bonds with the campers in their cabin. THAT IS THE PRIMARY GOAL. At the first sign of homesickness, it is important for the counselor to show caring and concern to the camper. That does not mean rush them away to the Senior Counselor and feel you have done a great job. You have not.

6. ACTIVE SUPERVISION HELPS PREVENT BULLYING… AND HELPS AGAINST SEVERE HOMESICKNESS

What evening activities are we doing this week? What can the camper look forward to? Do they know about what activities they will be doing this week? It is important to give campers something to look forward to in camp. Be excited about your 9th dance of the summer. It may be the camper’s first dance. Are they nervous about the dance? Are they worried about an evening activity? Are they scared and do not want to be singled out in a group?

Are they getting mail from home? Homesickness can spring up from getting too much mail or not enough. Are buddies in the cabin getting packages daily and they get one email in three days? Again, this is asking questions and being observant in the dining hall.

Ask the camper questions to get to the bottom of the issue. Is it homesickness? The signs and symptoms of homesickness look a lot like the signs and symptoms of bullying.

Some questions to ask

• What were they excited about when coming to Camp?

• What activities did they want to do?

• Are they getting the activities they want?

• Did they come with a friend?

• Do they have any concerns or issues that they would like to share?

What do we do as a camp?

• We prepare the parents to the best of our ability before camp and instruct them on how to prepare their child for camp.

• We create an active daily program that reduces down time during the day that campers have to think about home. Understand, rest period is bad for homesickness.

• Meal programs can be created to take a “hotspot” for homesickness and create a fun, environment. Dorms sit together to allow more time for campers to bond with their cabin mates. To interact in a normal environment under the watchful eye of the counselors and dorm CITs who can guide and monitor the campers. Chat with the ones that do not seem to be gelling with the group. Is everyone eating properly? This is another factor in homesickness. Are the campers basic needs

• Do they have any friends in the cabin?

• Do they like the campers in the cabin?

• Is anyone annoying them?

• Is anyone bothering them?

• Can you think of any other great questions to ask?

being met?

o Music, Who has Hermann?, Graces, Chants all help diminish a down time in camp.

• We provide counselor’s support if they have a camper experiencing homesickness. Senior Counselors are there for the staff member and, if necessary, the camper.

• We keep the parents informed. They are a valuable resource on their child. Why would they be homesick? What activities were they looking forward to participate in at camp? Do they have friends from home at camp? (Are they friends at camp? Are they spreading gossip about the child?)

Every homesick child is a case requiring individual attention and sincere care. Homesickness should be treated quickly. Campers should not be crying for hours with no steps being made to try to appease the child’s concerns.

BE ALERT

Use your eyes and ears for any signs of homesickness. Possible signs of homesick campers are:

• Withdrawing from group activities, cabin time, or meal conversations.

• Difficulty getting their full attention because they are upset or wandering off.

IF YOU KNOW A CAMPER IS HOMESICK

• Do not allow anyone to ridicule the homesick camper.

• Listen to the camper’s concerns.

• Empathize with the child’s concerns; we have all been there at some point and time.

• Let them know they are not alone and that it is normal to miss home.

• Encourage activities to help them make/find a buddy.

• Try and engage the camper in activities to get their mind

• Crying, complaining or the camper is telling you or other campers that they are homesick, missing family or just not feeling well.

off of home.

• Check in with the camper often to let them know you are there for them.

• Talk with a Senior Counselor and find out more information about where the camper is coming from. In extreme cases the parents may be called to find out more insights about the child

IF THE CAMPER IS STRUGGLING WITH HOMESICKNESS

Don’t take it personally when a child in your cabin gets homesick. NEVER try to solve the problem alone. Seek out help if you seem to be getting nowhere. If the child’s homesickness is affecting the group continuously in a detrimental way, you must seek assistance from a Senior Counselor. Only under rare circumstances would the child speak to his/her parents on the phone. This is decided by the Camp Director. More often than not, when a homesick child speaks to a parent, the situation becomes more difficult to handle. An Assistant Director or Camp Director will always prepare the parent when a child will be calling home and collaborate on how best handle the situation.

STRATEGIES FOR HELPING HOMESICK CAMPERS

The first step you should take is simply talking to the camper. It is important to remember that you should never put yourself in a situation where you are 1:1 with a camper. Remind them that it is okay to feel homesick and that everyone feels a little homesick at some point in their life. “It’s good that you miss home, it means it must be a cool place to live”

Ask the camper questions… Get them talking about something they know like: football, baseball, horses, drama, school. Try to find the root of the homesickness (i.e. maybe they are being bullied or aren’t getting any mail). Sometimes it’s just a simple solution to the problem. The more you know, the easier it is to help!

When talking to a camper, start a game. Cards, rafter ball, etc. Once you get going, maybe invite a couple of other campers in the dorm to join in. Sometimes homesick campers just need a little extra attention and that does the trick. Campers with friends struggle much less with homesickness. Who do they walk to their activities with? Are they alone going from activity to activity? Are they afraid of getting lost? Perhaps in the younger dorms – pair up campers with similar activity cards. Make an activity of working out who is in what activities – and what period.

It is important to use all the counselors in your assigned cabin as resources because another staff member may better relate to the specific camper. If nothing above works start trying other methods such as those listed below. The following methods/ topics that can be used in any order and some may be successful with campers while other times they may not work.

METHOD 1: EXCITEMENT TALK

Talk to the camper about all of the excitement that is still to come at Camp. Talk about their activities. Talk about Bragging Rights, the upcoming BBQ, the water carnival, the water balloon fight, talk about Game Night, Talk about the Dance (on RS and especially if they have siblings on the other camp), talk about Capture the Flag, etc. etc.

“You can’t go home because there is too much fun coming up! We have the dance tomorrow and that is so fun! Plus there are cookies! Thursday is (the talent show or free sport) and that is always a blast too! Friday Funday, and that’s the best day ever! Then Saturday is here and you get to go home!”

METHOD 2: TIME FLIES WHEN YOU’RE HAVING FUN

Ask the campers what their least favorite subject is at school. Say, “When you’re in Math class, doesn’t it go by really slowly?” Then ask the camper what their favorite subject is and say, “So, when you are having fun in Reading, doesn’t it go by fast?” Remind them that if they try to have fun this week at Camp it will go by much faster than if they are sad and not trying.

METHOD 3: TALK IT OUT

Sometimes campers just need you to talk to them. You can ask them questions about home and what they like to do for fun.

Sometimes just getting their mind off of crying and being homesick will completely turn around their day.

METHOD 4: CALENDAR COUNTDOWN

First, ask the camper when they are feeling the most homesick. If a camper says during meal times, you could create a countdown calendar for them that would include all of the remaining meals for the session. This is a good visual reminder for the camper of exactly how much time is eft and it also allows them the opportunity to cross off the things they have already completed. The little goals of checking off each meal makes it seem like the week is more do-able to a homesick camper.

METHOD 5: DESCRIBE THE ROOM

Have the camper close their eyes and imagine their room. Have them describe everything about their room to you (the walls, their furniture, what’s hanging on the wall, etc.). Then describe your room to them in the same way. This will make them feel comforted just by talking about home. Remind them that when they feel sad, they can always close their eyes and think about home and it can comfort them even when they are not there.

IDENIFYING CAMPER BEHAVIOR – BULLYING

• Counselors Practicing ACTIVE SUPERVISION are essential in preventing bullying.

• Counselors Practicing ACTIVE SUPERVISION are essential in preventing homesickness.

(ST.301.1B)

• Counselors Practicing ACTIVE SUPERVISION are essential in providing an excellent camp experience.

Our job as counselors is to identify, stop and prevent bullying. “Boys will be boys” is no longer an acceptable attitude to have in camping. Three-quarters of kids involved in school shootings have been bullied, and 49/50 states now have bullying prevention laws compared to 15 years ago when less than a handful had laws on the books. On the punishment side, five states don’t have any sanctions for bullying in their anti-bullying laws, while 12 states include a criminal sanction for bullies, ranging from school suspension to jail time, according to an analysis of state bullying laws from the Cyberbullying Research Center. Montana is the only state with no law to address bullying.

• The average length of time a bullying episode lasts is 28 seconds.

• The average length of time a bullying episode lasts if a bystander intervenes is 7 seconds!

WHAT IS BULLYING?

Bullying is the abuse of the difference of power.

IN CAMP

Bullying is being mean or leaving people out on purpose.

Bullying is an ongoing and repeated behavior. A camper making a rude remark is not necessarily a bully.

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS OF BULLYING?

• Loss of appetite

• Not joining in activities or games

• Crying

• Not sleeping

• Keeping to themselves in the cabin.

THERE

ARE

3

GROUPS OF PEOPLE INVOLVED IN BULLYING.

• The Bully.

• The Victim.

• The Bystander.

VICTIMS There are two types of victims

1. PASSIVE OR SUBMISSIVE

• Physically weaker.

• They are afraid of being hurt, have poor physical condition and don’t do well in sports.

• Cautious, sensitive, quiet, shy and withdrawn

2. PROVOCATIVE VICTIMS

• Have poor social skills and appear to instigate bullying (ADD/ADHD)

• Clumsy, immature and exhibit irritating habits

• Hot tempered and attempt to fight back when victimized

Dothese signs/symptoms looklikeanything else?

• Anxious, sensitive, cry or become easily upset

• Poor self-esteem

• Have difficulty standing up for themselves.

• Do not develop strong friendships

• Hyperactive, restless

• Pick on smaller kids

• Kids that get bullied can also be bullies.

MOST CAMPERS ARE IN THE THIRD CATEGORY

3. BYSTANDERS

Typically, bystanders do nothing about bullying because they…

• Do not know what to do, what to say, who to tell.

• Are afraid to get involved

• May consider the bully a friend

• Thinks the target “asks for it”

• Thinks the target should “stand up for themselves”

• Most are pleased they are not the victim.

• See adults ignore it… so why can’t they!

It is important in the camp setting that we, as staff do not allow bullying to occur.

• If you hear someone calling a camper a name… STOP IT!

• If you use bad language and allow the kids to use bad language… this will be intimidating to some campers.

• If you hear a camper make an off-the-cuff comment… ADDRESS IT!

DIFFERENT TYPES OF BULLYING

• Physical

• Verbal

• Cyber

• Relational

DYNAMICS OF BULLYING

• 80% of children have developed the social skill to function well in their own age-related space without significant adult intervention. They can deal with conflict, “stay cool”, “let it go” etc. They learn these situations are usually temporary.

• “Social Dominance”

• Top 20% - need to dominate and lead. Top of the totem pole

• Middle 60% - These and the top 20% can manage much of the bullying and aggression they experience on their own.

CLIQUES are a form of Relational Bullying.

• Bottom 20% - Bullying is especially problematic. Their emotional reactions are an open invitation to aggression from the kid(s) who want power and control over them. The bully sees an easy target to impress those around him.

• Male Bullies – tend to use more physical violence.

• Females – physical violence is increasing at an alarming rate however it is more likely to be more within social circles, harder to identify

BULLYING AT CAMP - Camp is the perfect place to address bullying but also a place for it to develop.

Why can bullying be more prevalent at camp?

• Bullying peaks during middle school years between the ages of ten and fourteen. These are the majority of ages for kids attending camp.

• Campers are seeking immediate acceptance and popularity so they might latch on to a leader’s example or even try and become the dominant person immediately.

Why camp can be the perfect place to address bullying:

• Camp creates environments where kids can succeed. By enhancing confidence, competence and esteem campers have the potential to leave camp with more positive feelings about themselves.

• A NEW START – Camp creates opportunities for positive social interaction away from stigmas and stereotypes they may have at home. Campers have an opportunity to create a new identity, showing their BEST selves to others.

• Camp is a place designed for positive nurturance and development.

• Returning campers may like to stamp their authority early.

• Camp can develop competitiveness amongst campers, which can increase division and hierarchy.

• Counselors are unique role models that campers may not have seen before. Different from parents, teachers, family etc. Counselors have a possible influence, much greater than previous mentors.

• By living with those they are bullying, bullies have a chance to see the residual effect with the help of a counselor that they may not get after leaving every day to go home after school.

SO, WE’VE IDENTIFIED BULLYING. HOW DO WE ADDRESS IT?

1. STOP THE BEHAVIOR

• Interrupt the comment or stop the physical harassment

• Do not pull the camper aside for confidentiality.

• Make sure all campers hear you addressing the action

This is a little controversial. But demonstrating that bullying has no place in camp will send a message to the entire dorm.

2. IDENTIFY THE BEHAVIOR

• Turn the focus on the behavior, not the camper. o That was name-calling. o That was pushing o That’s rumor spreading.

3. REMIND THE CAMPERS OF OUR EXPECTATIONS (Cabin rules)

• We do not treat people that way

• We want everyone to have a great summer camp experience

• We treat everyone with respect.

• How others feel is important.

4. REMIND CAMPERS OF BEHAVIOR EXPECTATIONS

• Call people by their name

• Treat others as you wish to be treated

• Be aware of other’s feelings

RECAP

• KEEP FOCUS ON THE BULLY AND THEIR BEHAVIOR.

• Follow the FOUR steps listed above.

• 20 – 30 seconds MAX

• Check back with the victim later!

• We must be consistent as a staff in addressing this behavior.

SEE CABIN RULES and CONSEQUENCES!

• Starts with the rules. Rules must be Observable, Enforceable, Logical, Specific, Positive and have input from the campers.

• PROFESSIONAL APPROACH

• Be assertive, but also mindful of how we communicate.

• Calm demeanor

• Body language

• Eye contact

• Neutral tone of voice

• Choice of words

So, this is all well and good if we see the behavior, but we do not always see the behavior. We do not always see the events. So, when we identify the behavior use the following phrases when going through the four steps:“

• “Campers are complaining that”

• “It has been brought to my attention that…”

Possible responses from the aggressor

• Denies all wrong doing

• Trivializes the event

• Counter attacks

What does a bystander do to prevent further bullying?

• Don’t join in

• Tell the bullies to stop

• “A counselor has indicated that…”

• Claims victim status and/or accuses the other camper of starting the episode

• Tries to cast the bullied student as the bully

• Counts on the support of the bystanders

• Separate the bully from the camper being bullied

• Report to a trusted adult.

Reporting to an adult is the hardest one for campers aged 9 through 14 to do. Campers have a tough time coming to terms with the feeling that they are tattling. It is not snitching if you are trying to get someone out of trouble.

• Reporting a camper for reading a comic book in class is tattling.

• Reporting an incident that you saw a camper get hit is HELPING.

SAFETY ISSUES - EMOTIONAL AND PHYSICAL

• Keep boundaries - This means that while it is great to share your own experience (like if you were once homesick or afraid to try something etc.), news about your private sexual or romantic life is not appropriate to share with your campers (even though they may be curious about it and ask you!) The other side of this is respecting distance that campers may need. What campers share with us about themselves is privileged. When we don’t respect that, we lose their trust.

• Set limits - As you may have heard children don’t have good “brakes ” What that means is they often do not know when to stop. Setting limits means helping a child take “no” for an answer! (Remember: When children feel out of control, they do not feel safe – and someone may get hurt)

• Allow children to “save face” - What children fear more than anything else is being humiliated - being made to feel small. If you characteristically deal with children in such a way that you leave them feeling this way, they will resent you and stop listening to you.

• Acknowledging growth, change or adaptation - “You know Billy, you’ve really come a long way! You haven’t been afraid at all this week!” “Sally, three days ago you wouldn’t have been able to say that!”

• Children need to hear us notice they are growing up!

STAFF & GOSSIP

While I do not want to know what you do on your time off, it is important to understand that as a Camp counselor your actions and behavior has a bearing on your ability to perform your job. You are all adults. If you are involved in a consenting relationship that is your business. There are boundaries that you need to understand and be aware of.

• Campers should NEVER know anything about your personal relationships.

• As a staff member, you do not discuss your fellow staff members personal business with the campers or other staff members.

Campers will ask. You NEVER give them any information that pertains to your night off. You never give them any details about your private life.

• Where are you going?

• Who are you going with?

• Do you have a girlfriend?

• Do you have a boyfriend?

• Are you gay?

• Are you a virgin?

• How many times have you had sex?

• Why is your tongue pierced?

Why will they ask you these questions? They are curious. Our job is to provide campers a safe, caring environment. They do not keep secrets. They will tell their parents. They will tell their friends. They will spread the gossip.

There are No Secrets in Camp. Be respectful to your fellow staff members. The use of the staff lounge is provided to all staff.

• Respect each other’s values and privacy.

Do not make the lounge or the spot uncomfortable for others to use. You are not doing anyone any favors by spreading gossip.

Keep a professional distance from the campers. Remember at all times you are an employee of Hermann Sons Life Camp.

WHAT MAKES A DIFFERENCE WHEN WORKING WITH

CHILDREN

by Bob Ditter

• Countdown - Children lose track of time easily. Giving them a five-minute warning before the end of a period helps them make the transition easier.

• Allow the children to be “experts” - Many children come to camp with a lot of knowledge about hobbies, sportseven about camp, having come back several years in a row. Allowing children to show off what they knowacknowledging their expertise - helps them to feel a sense of mastery and is a great way to establish mutual respect. Tip: Have returning campers show new campers around.

• Listen - Most children are so used to adults not listening to them that they will be impressed when you do! Feeling unheard (or misunderstood, which is just another form of feeling unheard) is one of the worst feelings there is.

• Share your “self” - Sharing your own experiences in appropriate ways helps children see their own experiences as more normal. Besides, children seldom have the opportunity to engage with adults in meaningful ways. Camp is a place where this can happen!

ACTIVE SUPERVISION

(ST.25.1D) (ST.28.1)

So, throughout this manual I’m using the phrase Active Supervision. What do we mean by the phrase: ACTIVE SUPERVISION?

As you have been told, the purpose of the counselor is to be there for the camper. Create an environment that is conducive to campers feeling safe. Actively supervising the campers is a 24/7 responsibility. t is easy to do at the activity site. As a smart, knowledgeable adult, you understand that if you are not active when belaying campers… there is a high level of danger. What is less evident is the importance of Active Supervision during cabin time. Cabin time is an incredible opportunity for you to “hang-out” with your campers. Get to know them. Ask questions. Be interested in them and their experience at HERMANN SONS LIFE CAMP. If you are not scheduled “Time-Off” then you are working.

This is not time to be sleeping on your bed, reading a book, using your ipod or zoning out – you are to be actively supervising the campers in your care. Unstructured cabin time, statistically in camping, is the most dangerous time on camp. It is the camper’s Rest Period not yours.

• Counselors Practicing ACTIVE SUPERVISION are essential in preventing bullying.

• Counselors Practicing ACTIVE SUPERVISION are essential in preventing homesickness.

• Counselors Practicing ACTIVE SUPERVISION are essential in providing campers an excellent summer camp experience. This is where the true value and greatest impact on the life of a child happens.

RULE OF THREE

(ST.28.1) (ST.36.1)

No staff member, nor CIT should ever be alone with a camper where others cannot see. It is always important to remember that if you are taking a camper to the dorm to use the rest room – you stay outside while the camper enters the dorm to use the rest room.

Walking a camper to the clinic or the dorm is acceptable during the day because there is no expectation of privacy. Sitting on a camper’s bed is acceptable (if invited) during relaxation time where there are many campers and staff in the immediate vicinity.

AGE CHARACTERISTICS AT CAMP

(ST.25.1B)

PRACTICAL

POSITIVES

CAMP APPLICATIONS

(8 – 10)

• Very caring. Wants to think they are older and more independent but still like stories, and hugs.

• Asleep well before 10:00 p.m.

• Can be motivated with proper guidance.

• Will help with chores.

• Great sense of humor. Always make you laugh.

• Always willing to try new things.

• Look up to their counselor. You don’t need to earn their respect but can lose it very quickly.

NEGATIVES

• Infrequent temper tantrums.

• Bed wetting still a problem.

• Cabin clean up. It’s all on the counselor to cover the camper’s tracks!

• Counselor will have to redo a lot of their camper's efforts.

• Struggle to follow direction.

• Wander a lot. Still require 24/7 supervision.

• Difficult time with the basics... showers, brushing teeth/hair, dressing, etc.

• Need constant reminding. You must make sure the campers are taking showers. They will try to fake you!

PRACTICAL CAMP APPLICATIONS (11 – 13)

NEUTRAL

• Wants independence but still want affection.

• Detects unfair and fair treatment easily.

• Need a great deal of support.

POSITIVES

• Good sense of humor.

• Normally respects authority.

• All talk, no action (i.e. cabin raids.).

• Feelings of hatred aimed at adults are short lived.

• Few temper tantrums.

• Talk about a variety of subjects in a funny way.

• Strong sense of friendship.

• Strong sense of trust.

• Generally easy to solve cabin problems.

• Respond well to offer of simple rewards.

PRACTICAL CAMP APPLICATIONS (11 – 13) Cont.

NEGATIVES

• All want attention at the same time.

• Tend to be more homesick.

• Get emotionally upset easily.

• Hard to tell if they desire or do not desire adult affection.

• Tend to hang onto and depend on others more.

• Hard to get them to do chores or shower.

• Not a lot of independence can be given.

• Feed off each other’s emotions.

• Continual horseplay.

PRACTICAL CAMP APPLICATIONS

(CIT’s 14 – 16)

NEUTRAL

• Looking for acceptance of peers.

• Able to be their friend

• Varying background and cultures become a challenge.

• All campers look to the seniors, they want to be like them.

POSITIVES

• More mature - You will be able to have excellent communication on a mature level.

• Not high counselor maintenance in personal living skills. i.e. showers, teeth.

• Counselors can influence them, i.e. ideas, motivation, ability, emulation, ease.

• Easier to relate to - age difference not that great.

• More responsible. (See below)

• More independence.

NEGATIVES

• Very cliquey

• May smoke/drink (and ask you to provide!)

• Up late, very late.

• Attitude: "I pay to come here, you can't tell me."

• Foul language

• More irresponsible. Requires constant supervision, though not as hands-on as in the youngest divisions.

• One camper can influence the whole cabin.

• They know the camp - may have been coming for many years and they will test you.Important to draw an authoritative role so that they do not walk all over you

WORKING WITH ADD/ADHD CHILDREN

Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) seem to be coming to camp in greater numbers than ever. They have probably always been there, just without the label. One reason we may be seeing ADHD children in greater numbers is that the medical professions have gotten better at identifying it. Another reason may be that the stigma about ADHD seems to be decreasing in intensity for many parents.

Success in working with these children at camp depends on a number of factors:

• First you must have some understanding of the syndrome itself and what it is and what it is not.

• Second, you must be able to obtain accurate information from parents before the child comes to camp.

• Third, you must have some tools for working with that childpractical strategies that are easily executed by your staff.

• Finally, you should also have some cursory knowledge of the medication issues involved in treating ADHD so that you can speak intelligently with parents, staff, children and the prescribing physician.

ADHD – WHAT IS IT?

Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) is a combination of symptoms that include inattention, distractibility, impulsiveness and other difficulties associated with attention. Behaviors associated with ADHD include fidgeting, being easily distracted, difficulty in following directions or instructions, daydreaming, interrupting others, losing or misplacing things and having difficulty finishing task or assignments. Organizationally, children with ADHD are a mess! There’s a lot of confusion & misunderstanding about this syndrome. Some of the difficulty comes from the nature of “attention” itself.

Attention and the ability to maintain one’s attention is greatly influenced by a number of factors, including mood, motivation, environmental circumstances, level of fatigue and so on. Even individuals with brain damage have better or poorer performance with motivation changes. However, children who have a legitimate attention deficit do have tremendous difficulty keeping up with other children.

HYPERACTIVITY IN CHILDREN

Many children can, from time to time, behave in a highly active manner. “Hyperactivity” can be caused by many factorsexcitement about being at camp or at a favorite camp activity; anxiety about being away from home or in the company of people who are not quite friends yet; or nervousness about performing in a new arena.

There are also “clinical” reasons for a child’s overactive behavior. These include (a) having ADHD. This is organic - based in the brain; (b) having had a trauma (death of a parent or divorce), from which a child has not yet recovered; or (c) being stimulated by highly charged material or information that is producing a lot of anxiety.

It is important for you as a counselor to know whether a camper has a true attention deficit disorder, since children with ADHD often exhibit behavior that is not willful, such as not listening, “messing up” on rules that were just stated or going ahead without permission of the staff. Campers with ADHD, then, need a different kind of partnership with you, since most children with ADHD have trouble paying attention, keeping track of the rules, knowing what is expected of them and so on.

Another reason to know who does and who does not have an organically based hyperactivity problem is that some children who look “hyper” may be sending us a “coded message” that is actually a cry for help.

In some cases the help is for better self-control, while in other cases it may be a sign that a child is struggling with an emotional injury they cannot cope with on their own. If you think you have a child who is sending a message like that, tell your Senior Counselor or the nurse. The good news is that most of the same approaches and strategies that work with campers who have ADD/ADHD can be used successfully with all campers who are highly active.

For example, most youth with ADHD need more frequent and more immediate feedback from counselors than other children. They need to know when they are doing well and when they are about to go astray or do something not so well. All campers can benefit from that kind of feedback!

Children with ADD/ADHD also respond better when: the feedback is positive, the instructions are simplified, commands and rules are stated positively, and a counselor makes better eye contact with them or uses light, appropriate, reassuring touch, like a hand on the shoulder. All of these tactics also work well with other campers too!

The single greatest difference between campers who have ADD, and those that do not is that children who can control their behavior if they try, need to get help being accountable for their actions. In other words, you must begin to focus on helping a child take control of him or herself. One of the ways to do this is to stress clearly and simply what your expectations as a counselor are, then to be equally clear about consequences.

For children who do not have an organically based problem, and even for children who can gain better control with some effort on their part, such things as earning privileges, losing a privilege or taking a time out are effective strategies. Remember that your goal as a counselor is to help children master new behavior. If this means being firm, and you can be firm without humiliating a child, then even if they are angry with you, you can help them do some good growing up!

Once you are clear that being firm is not being mean, you can

take a look at some other strategies that help with children who are highly active. Many of these are outlined on the following two pages. For example, in the bunk or with the group, have the rules stated clearly and post them so campers can see them.

• Keep the rules simple. Have campers repeat them back to you so you can confirm that they understand what is expected. Put your commands and rules in positive terms.

• Break tasks down into smaller steps so they are easier to follow. “Prompt” campers with what you want from them

• That means giving them a hint or suggestion before they do something.

• With very active campers, using rewards works, but you will find that you will have to change the reward frequently, since highly active children get “bored” quickly with whatever you use as the “prize.” Try rewards like a special time with you, special time in a favorite activity or getting to help out with something fun - like helping to light the camp fire that night or blowing the whistle at a game, etc. Good supervision in anything you do with an active child is essential!

• Many highly active children need a “cooling off” time after a strenuous activity. If they don’t get such a moment, they can become irritable and end up in a fight. When coming to the end of an activity period, give the group a several minute “warning” that the activity is about to come to a close. This helps everyone get used to the idea that they will have to stop and put things away.

• Keep highly active children nearer to you. The closer they are, the easier you can see when they are about to “go off” and the easier it is to monitor them. That means sitting next to or near them at meals and in some group activities.

ADHD/COUNSELORS AND CAMP

This behavior is not willful and can be variable (in other words, children with ADHD can concentrate or pay attention sometimes and not others). The counselor should focus on problem areas - such as cabin cleanup, transition times, free play and review the ABCs of behavior:

A - Antecedent (what’s going on just before unwanted behavior occurs);

B - Behavior (what the child did, how the child reacted);

C - Consequence (response of peers, primary counselor, etc.)

CHILDREN WITH ADHD TEND TO:

• Feel negative about themselves.

• Need to be “right” (to them, being wrong = “I’m bad”) and they get into arguments around being right.

• Become very “bossy” with other children or with adults.

• React poorly to surprises and unscheduled changes.

• Be strongly drawn to emotionally charged materials or events such as: swearing, sexualized ways of talking or behaving, gossiping personal information about others, graffiti, petty vandalism, defacing property.

• Show signs of high anxiety, such as...tics, rocking fidgeting talking to oneself, restlessness, tapping.

• Lose the “big picture” or overview (and their perspective) easily.

• Are overwhelmed with too many details. Get stuck on individual items.

• Need high doses of positive reinforcement/feedback.

• Become satiated on rewards or reinforcers quickly (and respond best when reinforcers are changed frequently).

• Have good information but poor execution. Test Scores show a twenty-point discrepancy between verbal and performance scores for ADD/ADHD kids.

• Need and respond well to frequent prompts, countdowns, reminders, cue cards, notes, etc.

• Is an organizational nightmare and needs much help with schedule card in the elective program.

© Hermann Sons Life Camp 2023

WANT TO BE A GREAT COUNSELOR?

This will help… (and not just with campers that have ADD/ADHD)

• USE Transitions:

o Allow 3-5 minute warning - do countdowns.

o Allow or build in extra time (prompt these children to start earlier).

• Keep the ADHD child closer to you.

o Close physical proximity helps make your routine consistent.

• Use the same phrases and order of events for clean-up and similar kinds of activities.

• Give immediate, positive feedback.

• Use multiple reinforcers

o E.g., free time, special role in a game, going first, using something special in camp, getting first choice in activities, tokens or points which can be “traded” for different items

• Allow “down time” for campers to decompress.

o Prompt them to do so. Don’t expect they will on their own

• Use touch when talking to them or instructing them.

o Hand on shoulder o upper arm

o upper back

o even holding a younger child’s hand.

• Ask them to repeat back to you what you said or asked for or just instructed.

o Take care to do this in a way that does not humiliate them in front of other children.

• Seat children close to you in cafeteria/dining hall that may need some extra attention.

• Observe which times are most stressful for the child

o E.g., cabin clean-up, rest hour, evening, getting ready for bed and get extra help during those times.

LITTLE EYES UPON YOU

Unknown author

There are little eyes upon you, And they are watching night and day; There are little ears that quickly Take in every word you say. There are little hands all eager To do everything you do; and a little boy who's dreaming Of the day he'll be like you. You're the little fellow's idol; You're the wisest of the wise; In his little mind, about you No suspicions ever rise. He believes in you devotedly, Holds that all you say and do, He will say and do in your way When he's grown up like you. There's a wide-eyed little fellow Who believes you're always right; And his ears are always open, And he watches day and night. You are setting an example Every day in all you do; For the little boy who's waiting To grow up to be just like you.

© Hermann Sons Life Camp 2023

HERMANN SONS LIFE CAMP CORE ACTIVITY MANUAL

The aim of our daily program at Hermann Sons Life Camp is to provide campers a FUN experience while teaching valuable safety regulations and building basic skill development.

Our intention is to teach the kiddos the fundamentals of the activity so they have a basis for enjoying the activity the rest of their lives

These pages contain information which applies to all of the activities that we offer here at Hermann Sons Life Camp.

This summer we will also be changing how the campers select their activities.

Our Daily Program is divided into two parts. The SPECIALTY Program is the traditional Hermann Sons Life Camp program where the camp schedules each camper three (3) daily activities which will be consistent throughout the week (Monday through Thursday). HALF THE DAY WILL STAY THE SAME.

The campers select their six (6) favorite activities before camp begins. Before the camper arrives in camp, our goal will be to give the camper their top-3 activity choices.

Again, this is the traditional way campers have selected their activities. Some activities will only be available in the SPECIALTY Program. Examples of these activities will be the Challenge Course, Rocketry and Kayaking are three such activities.

The Elective Program is where the campers choose two electives each day. Maybe the campers want to hang out with a new friend or sibling. Perhaps they want to try an elective for the first time. Perhaps they are having a bad day, and simply just want to attend the elective where their favorite counselor is teaching.

The electives will be typical camp offerings but designed to be stand-alone, single electives. An example of this would be dance. As an Specialty Activity, in dance we teach our campers one dance in which they work on every day. As an Electivity Activity/ stand-alone elective we can offer campers a hip-Hop class, or a Line Dance class, or a ballet class, etc. With an elective program we can offer our campers Manis and Pedis on Wednesday before the dance. We can

© Hermann Sons Life Camp 2023

run a Magic the Gathering class. We can offer classes that relate to the theme of the week.

Elective offerings can and will be tailored to the campers interests each week as well as the individual skills a counselor may bring to the table. Perhaps our campers will want to try rugby, netball or Gaelic football taught by one of our overseas staff members? Perhaps we have a counselor that knows martial arts or one that can juggle.

SCHEDULE CHANGING – REMEMBER THE WHY!

We want the camper’s week at camp to be the best week of their entire year. On arrival day (Sunday) the camper will see their schedule for the week for the first time. This is what we send to the parents in an email:

We will have your child’s weekly activity schedule posted in the cabin. We have done everything to get your child the activities they want. Our goal is to make this week the best week of the year. Instruct your child to speak with their counselor if they have any concerns about the activities posted. While we will not always be able to make changes to the activities scheduled on arrival day, many times it is possible. We cannot change the schedule if we do not know there is an issue.

A single designated staff member will be the only person that can make the change to the schedule. While it is not always possible to make the requested change, the designated staff member will always do their best to accommodate the camper.

DO YOU HAVE NEW PROGRAM IDEAS? LET US KNOW!

If you have any suggestions on what will make this activity safer or more fun, let us know! Camper satisfaction is key. From drills, fun games or even new evening programs… We want to hear about it! Speak with your Activity Specialist, Senior Counselors, Director’s or the Executive Director.

STAFF COMMUNICATION TALK TO EACH OTHER!

Communication is essential in all aspects of camp but especially in the activity program. When there is an issue between two staff members, direct communication between the two is expected, not with others. If you cannot solve the issue at hand between yourselves, take the issue to the Activity Specialist, first. Issues will be taken to the Camp Director if needed. Do not argue in front of the campers. Do not correct a staff member in front of a camper unless there is a potentially dangerous situation taking place.

COUNSELOR ASSIGNMENTS – IT’S ABOUT THE KIDS!

Each counselor will be assigned to 5 different activity periods each day (Monday through Thursday). It is important that all counselors are flexible and cooperative when it comes to their assignments. If there is a serious issue with your assignment, it can be taken up with the Camp Director.

While we will try to schedule the staff member a varied and diverse schedule, our goal is to always provide the camper the best possible daily activity program.

Some staff have been hired specifically and trained as lifeguards, tennis instructors, rocketry staff, challenge course staff, riflery or archery staff, etc.

• If this is the case, you may spend most, if not all of your activity day at that activity.

During Staff Development, we will look to cross-train our staff. If you would like to be trained in a different activity, please let us know.

DAILY ACTIVITY FOCUS – FUN AND SAFE!

The daily program at Hermann Sons Life Camp is to provide campers a FUN experience while teaching valuable safety regulations and building basic skill development.

Our intention is to teach the kiddos the fundamentals of the activity so they have a basis for enjoying the activity the rest of their lives.

GOALS FOR ACTIVITY INSTRUCTORS

(CR.1) (CR.2)

• Make sure that your activity site provides a positive environment for kids to learn. Your activity site should be operated in a stressfree, supportive and encouraging manner. Participants are expected to cheer each other on.

• The values of respect, kindness, good sportsmanship, acceptance, appreciation and honor should be promoted.

• Greet each camper and say good-bye to every participant you come in contact with. Remember that people want to feel good about participating at the camp and you play a major role in creating that feeling.

• Be courteous and friendly, show enthusiasm in the activity you instruct and in your job. It might spread to others near you.

• Be safety conscious; know, enforce, and live by the camp’s safety rules.

• Put the needs of the campers ahead of your own, campers come first.

• Exhibit a sense of ownership with the operation of your activity and take pride in your job and workplace.

CLIPBOARD – DON’T FORGET TO RETURN IT!

Before each activity, go to the Admin building to collect the activity clipboard. At some of the activities, you will also pick up the activity’s first aid kit.

FIRST AID BACKPACKS (HW.18.1)

First aid backpacks are kept in the Admin building and are placed on the same hook as the clipboard. Activities that require first aid backpacks are Range, OLS, Nature, Pool, Climbing, Challenge and the Activity Center.

Counselors are responsible for recording any first aid that is provided to campers. There is a form that is in the first aid box that you can use and turn into the Medical Staff upon completion.

It is also important that if you use the last of an item in a first aid kit that you restock it or let someone in the clinic know so it can be replaced.

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The First Aid backpack should be carried by the individual who is CPR/FA certified.

BEING ON TIME TO ACTIVITIES

Each activity is only allotted 45 mins if it is a one period class. It is essential that counselors are on time to their activities so we can utilize as much time as possible within the class period. Roll call and stretching should be done in a timely manner.

WALKIES, COMMUNICATION, CELL PHONES

Certain activities are required to have a walkie present.

Riverside - Range, OLS, Climbing, Challenge, Nature and Pool.

Hilltop- Range, OLS, Climbing, Challenge, Nature and Pool.

The walkie is used to communicate with the office at the appropriate camp in the case of an emergency. It is also an easy way to report a camper who is late to an activity if you are not close to the office. When returning walkies to the office make sure they are on the charger.

Personal cell phones may be taken by the activity specialist to the Climbing Barn, Range, River, Nature and Outdoor Living Skills. The cell phone should be kept out of sight and should only be used to contact camp in the event of an emergency. (AD.21.1)

IN OLS, the lead staff member may take photos with their personal cell phone if they wish of the campers and their forts/shelters on Thursday.

Parents would love to see these shelters.

The photos will be given to the Executive Director who will post them on the Camp’s App.

MAINTENANCE LOGBOOK (CR.5.1)

As a camp, we want the facility to be in the best possible condition. If there is a maintenance issue, please write it into the Maintenance Log located in the camp offices.

If there are immediate safety concerns related to the maintenance issue, please contact the Camp’s Senior Staff immediately.

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Twice daily, the maintenance director will review the logbook.They will then prioritize the maintenance concerns and resolve them in order.

If the item you have listed has not been fixed within 24 hours, please contact your director/assistant director.

They will follow up with the maintenance staff. The Executive Director is to be informed of all maintenance issues not resolved within 48 hours.

If it is something that you can take care of please do so (i.e removing a fallen branch from the tennis court).

HAZARDS AT ACTIVITIES

Please be aware of natural and man-made hazards at each activity area.

• Traffic if traveling from camp

• Automatic gates

• Traffic near HT and RS Ranges

ACTIVITY ATTENDANCE – ROLL CALL

On the clipboard, there will be the activity’s Attendance Roster. Make sure that attendance is taken at the beginning of every activity. This is a great time to get the CITs involved. If a camper does not answer roll call, have a counselor, CIT or camper run to the office (or tell the office over walkie) and have them paged.

PUNCH AND SNACK BREAKS – HYDRATION IS KEY!

We have a punch break between activity periods. It is important that you encourage your campers to hydrate. It is also important that you provide campers with ample water breaks during the duration of activities, especially the ones involving physical exertion.

In between 4th and 5th activity period we have a snack break. A snack as well as water and punch is provided. Once again it is important to encourage campers to get a snack and hydrate during this time.

It is important that counselors do not dismiss campers early to punch or snack break. Campers should not be dismissed until the announcement has been made over the PA system. Remember to take

snacks if your group will be off camp during snack break.

Let’s be efficient when handing out snacks

INSTRUCTOR QUALIFICATIONS

Prior to leading an activity, each staff member will be trained and their skills verified for each activity. For each specialized activity, this skill verification must be documented in writing and on file with the Executive Camp Director. (ST.33.1)

• The instructor must have the skills specific to the activity as evidenced by certification or documentation of the staff member’s experience in participation.

• The instructor must have an understanding of the techniques/skills required to teach the activity.

• Each staff member will be evaluated in writing during orientation as having demonstrated the following:

o Ability to instruct and operate the activity safely.

o Ability to enforce established safety regulations.

o Ability to work with children aged 9 through 14.

o Ability to provide appropriate instruction to the participants in the activity.

o Ability to identify and manage the hazards of the activity. What are the hazards directly related to this activity, the site, the environment, the equipment?

o Ability to apply appropriate emergency procedures and rescue procedures related to the activity.

o The ability to implement specific skills unique to the activity's instruction. These will be discussed in Activity Lesson Plans.

o Objectives, safety procedures, skill progression, operating procedures and competencies required for each activity can be found on the Activity’s specific Lesson Plan.

SPECIALIZED ACTIVITIES AT CAMP

Based on the 2019 Version of the ACA Accreditation standards, the following activities are considered Specialized Activities at Hermann Sons Life Camp.

Archery, Baseball, Challenge Course, Climbing, Outdoor Living Skills, Riflery, Rocketry, Softball, STEM Reactions and Tumbling.

SUPERVISON OF INSTRUCTORS

The Directors and Activity Specialists are responsible for the training and qualification of the instructors during the staff and skill development weeks. Training provided during staff development is followed by supervision, reinforcement, coaching, correction and instruction as needed. (ST.8.1)

In the course of performing their daily job responsibilities, the supervisors are expected to make observations of his/her staff. Twice during the summer season these observations are to be documented in writing on the Activity Observation Form. (ST.34.1)

The Activity Observation Form is designed to formally identify situations where:

• An instructor is performing very well and deserves a commendation,

• An instructor needs additional training or assistance to perform up to standards,

• Other comments regarding the activity site.

The Activity Observation Form is to be completed twice during the summer. Reports are due before July 7th and before August 1st. The completed report is to be hand delivered to the Camp Director who will review the forms with the Executive Camp Director.

The information contained on this form is strictly confidential.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR CAMPERS

No one is permitted to participate in any activity unless they have received basic instruction, a safety orientation and understands all of the activity's safety regulations, proper use of safety equipment, range commands, etc. (PD.5.1)

Hermann Sons Life Camp has limited the participation in one or two activities. (AD.32.1)

• Challenge is available to campers aged 10-14

• OLS is available to campers aged 10 – 14.

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There is no age restriction for participation in the activity covered by this manual except where indicated above.

Regardless of possible eligibility restrictions, it is expected that the activity’s instruction and recreational time will always be geared to the camper’s age, ability and maturity level.

GENERAL CAMP ACTIVITIES RATIO

Staff to Camper ratios are established by using the ACA Camp guidelines and the Texas Administrative Code that governs Youth Camps and Health and Safety in Texas.

9-14 years old 1 to 8 campers 15 or more years old 1 to 10 campers

It is Hermann Sons Life Camp intention to provide a staff to camper ratio better than that required by State Law Senior Counselors and Assistant Directors are also to be included in the overall staff to camper ratios and total staff required 17 Adult Staff on Hilltop and 25 Adult Staff on Riverside. (ST.35.1)

Each camp activity is evaluated by the Executive Camp Director and the camp will be staffed accordingly. See the specific Camp Lesson Plans. It is acceptable for a counselor teaching soccer for example to have a 1:20 ratio. (ST.23.2) (ST.23.3)

Jr. Staff having gone through two weeks of training (as CIT’s) and/or Staff Development training (one week), while not included in the overall staff to camper numbers, are to be counted in the operational and dorm staffing ratios.

There must be a minimum of two staff members (Jr. Staff Members count) in the dorms at all times campers are present. It is always preferred that there will be three staff in the dorms when campers are present. (ST.35.3)

When campers are in the dorms, one counselor must be situated on either side of the dividing wall to provide active supervision. (Hilltop)

CITs are never to be included as staff in the Staff to Camper ratio. They are campers!

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CITs are peer leaders that may be utilized to escort campers to and from activities to the public restrooms (staying outside), and to the clinic. Two staff members are preferred to be scheduled at all daily activities. There may be some activities that, when activities are scheduled in the same location that one counselor/instructor be assigned to each activity, i.e. Rocketry and Ceramics on Hilltop are both scheduled in the HHAC Building. Gaga and Volleyball are next to each other, one counselor may be scheduled to each activity. (ST.35.2)

Campers at Hermann Sons Life Camp are aged 9-14. All staff (including Jr. Staff) are aged a minimum of 17 years of age. (ST.35.4)

CIT’s are aged 15 and 16. Jr. Staff are not assigned direct supervision to the CIT campers. (i.e.Dorm assignments)

At all times, there will be a staff member on site certified in First Aid and age-appropriate CPR/AED. (ST.7.1) (ST.7.2)

CAMP EQUIPMENT

Counselors and instructors are expected to monitor the program equipment checking it daily (prior to use) for safety, confirming that it is being maintained in good repair and stored in a manner to safeguard its effectiveness. (PD.2.1.a)(PD.2.2.b)

Equipment found to be unsafe is to be so marked and taken out of service and reported immediately to the Camp Director. (PD.2.1.b)

Counselors and instructors are expected to confirm that all program equipment is appropriate to the size and ability of the user. (PD.2.2.a)

Senior Staff/Activity Specialists will conduct weekly safety checks (written) of all activity equipment. If there is an issue with any equipment please report it to the Senior Counselor responsible for the activity or a Director.

All instructors are held responsible for the camp equipment entrusted in their care. A lot of money is invested in camp’s equipment and we depend upon our staff members for its care and safekeeping. The

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Sons

assumption and execution of this responsibility will have a definite bearing upon the staff member’s evaluation made during the course of the summer.

Program activity equipment is only to be made available to campers and staff when an activity period is scheduled, an adult certified instructor properly staffs the activity and all safety rules are in effect. (FA.13.1)

It is important to let the Executive Director know if the equipment is not acceptable or sub-standard.

TEACHING SKILLS

Competency Demonstration:

It is camp policy that all participants using camp equipment in the activity be monitored until competency is demonstrated. This may mean one on one supervision.

Due to the possible dangers involved in the misuse of equipment or vehicles, staff should monitor campers carefully while they are learning how to use these items (developing competency).

Staff members should provide coaching, practice, and modeling while the campers are engaged in the learning process.

Note: Each skill level attained by the camper generally presents greater risks (i.e. accessing new equipment) and the camper must again be closely monitored at this stage until competency is demonstrated.

ACTIVITY PERIOD LENGTH – 45 MINUTES

It is imperative that the instructor is present at the activity site when the activity is scheduled to begin. Late arrival creates supervision and operational problems.

Under no circumstances is an instructor authorized to release a camper from an activity site early unless specifically authorized by the program director or the Camp Director.

LOST & FOUND PROCEDURES

If possible, Instructors are expected to return items left at the activity site to their rightful owner. In the alternative, lost and found items are to be delivered

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to the lost and found boxes located on the Dining Hall porches.

Clothing is never to be thrown in the garbage. This is considered the destruction of property.

Property is never to be confiscated (finders keepers, losers weepers). This is considered theft & grounds for dismissal.

ACTIVITY SITE - ORGANIZED AND SECURE

• Each instructor is responsible for the organization and cleanliness of his/her activity site.

• Papers and debris are never to be left on the ground.

• Your garbage container is to be emptied daily. Please contact our maintenance staff to empty these containers if it is full.

• Each instructor is expected to do daily safety checks to ensure that his/her activity site is kept free from hazards.

• Camp equipment is never to be left unattended at the activity sites.

• Equipment is always to be stored neatly and in a way designed to protect it from misuse.

• Certain activity sites are to be off limits to campers and staff when an activity period is not scheduled and properly staffed. These activities are published in the camp's arrival bulletins and at the flagpole orientation assembly. (FA.13.1)

• Other methods of controlling access to your activity site are discussed in the activities specific Lesson Plans. (FA.13.1)

NON-PARTICIPATION BY A CAMPER

What do you do when a camper doesn’t want to participate? Do you force them? Send them back to their dorm? Ignore them? Everybody has a bad day once in a while.

If you have tried everything you can to encourage the camper to participate and the camper still does not want to participate and it seems like one of those days, don’t worry.

Let the camper sit at your activity site and supervise them. Never let them leave your activity site and go back to their dorm. This would create a major safety concern. No camper is ever to be left unsupervised.

If this non-participation continues to be a problem, please consult the senior counselor or activity specialist.

ACTIVITY AWARDS

At Hermann Sons Life Camp our mission is to provide a quality, safe and caring summer camp program that develops healthy friendships and enriches the lives of our campers by fostering self-esteem and independence through exposure to new experiences, group living and play.

We award activity ribbons based on the camper’s performance Monday through Thursday… the whole week. The awards are not named anything specifically. The awards will not be for “Most Outstanding” or “Most Improved”. The Soccer ribbon goes to _________. The crafts ribbon goes to _______. These ribbons will be awarded in the dorms. The number of ribbons per activity will be determined by the camp directors based on the number of classes and the campers behavior.

The criteria for the awarding campers will be based on the following criteria:

ATTITUDE – 80% Sportsmanship Respect Enthusiasm Hard work/ effort

SKILL – 20% Skill level

Improvement during the week.

At the end of each week, I envision that the Senior Counselors and Activity Specialist will meet and discuss the candidates for MOST ATHLETIC and MOST CREATIVE.

Much in the same way that senior counselors and directors currently meet to confirm and discuss the BEST CAMPER of the week voted by the counselors.

A camper’s skill level and ability to hit the bullseye is not what will determine the awards for the activity.

This does not mean that the most skilled archer doesn’t win a ribbon. They may encapsulate the very attitude that makes a HSLC ribbon winner.

TRAINING FOR ACCIDENTS and EMERGENCIES

The potential for accidents or emergencies at camp are endless, i.e., sports injury, vehicular related injury negligence, fights, life threatening allergies, missing camper, fire, natural disasters, significant behavioral problems, etc.

During staff development the activity specialist instructors will be asked to identify safety concerns (hazards) related to the specific activity's operation and activity site.

MINOR INJURIES

Minor injuries which can be handled by qualified staff instructors who have access to the first aid kit located at the activity site should be attended to by the staff member before having the camper report to the clinic. Note: The clinic must be notified of all first aid treatment provided.

MAJOR INJURIES

If a significant injury, accident or emergency occurs in the camp, the following procedures apply: Apply first aid as deemed appropriate to your certification and get immediate emergency medical assistance.

© Hermann Sons Life Camp 2023

MEDICAL EMERGENCY ON CAMP GROUNDS

INJURED PERSON CAN BE MOVED

a) If more than 1 staff member is present at the accident/medical emergency, one staff member accompanies the injured person to the clinic and the other staff member remains with the group.

b) If only one staff member is available, it may be necessary for the whole group to accompany the injured person to the clinic unless assistance is found or there is access to one of the camp's 2-way radios.

c) NEVER MOVE a camper with a suspected head or neck injury.

INJURED PERSON CAN’T BE MOVED

In the event of a medical emergency or an accident on campgrounds, the following procedures are camp policy:

a. If more than one staff member is present at the accident/medical emergency, then one of the available staff members is to immediately report to the clinic. In the alternative, get to the closest camp two-way radio and notify the medical personnel on duty of the situation.

b. If only one staff member is present at the accident and no other adult help is available, the staff member should send two of the most responsible campers to the clinic or to the closest two-way radio locationwhich ever is faster.

If at all possible, it is recommended that a camper not be sent on such an emergency mission. If another staff member can be obtained in any way, then that staff member should be sent to the clinic or to the closest camp walkie with the request for medical attention. A member of the medical staff is on-duty 24 hours a day.

One staff member should always remain at the accident site to maintain calm, to assist the injured person, and supervise the remaining campers.

Once the medical staff is notified, a member of the medical staff or the original messenger (if directed by the medical staff) is to radio and report the incident to the Camp Director or, in their absence, the Asst. Director.

The office staff member (or other senior staff person) will copy the emergency message and will stand by the telephone awaiting instructions from the Camp Director (or in his absence the Assistant Camp Director or the Health Supervisor) regarding ambulance or hospital notification.

Camp Medical Staff will report the status of the accident to the Camp Director (or in his absence the Assistant Camp Director) and, if hospital care is deemed necessary, a telephone call will be made by the office staff or clinic staff to the hospital. The Health Supervisor in consultation with the Camp Director, will determine if the camp emergency vehicle or 911 Ambulance Service should be utilized. The office staff or medical staff (or medical staff member) will call 911 if deemed advisable. (AD.21.1)

If a camp emergency vehicle is used, the office staff member (or medical staff member) is to obtain a qualified driver. Use the PA system or the camp's 2-way radio transmitter as necessary.

As soon as possible, the Camp Director (or in their absence the Assistant Camp Director) should be notified of all the facts surrounding the accident by the medical staff member on duty. The medical staff member on duty should have the following information available:

• name of camper;

• age and dorm assigned;

• the camper’s medical form (the campers medical form must be taken with the camper together with a Request for Treatment Form if a trip to the hospital is made);

• a factual account of how the accident occurred;

• list of eye witnesses.

Depending upon the nature of the accident or the state of emergency, the Camp Director (or in his absence the Assistant Camp Director) will consult with the Camp Medical Staff to determine appropriate additional action.

The Camp Director will determine if law enforcement or other state or federal officials should be contacted.

Upon the establishment of facts and information which would be of value to the parent, the Camp Director or his designee (the health supervisor) will contact the parents of the individual. If hospital care is deemed necessary, parents of the individual should be contacted as soon as the camper leaves for the hospital. (AD.21.2)

IT IS OUR POLICY THAT IF A PARENT IS TO BE NOTIFIED OF A MEDICAL EMERGENCY, THE NURSE OR MEDICAL STAFF MUST MAKE THIS CALL. THE EXECUTIVE CAMP DIRECTOR IS TO BE NOTIFIED AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. (TAKE CARE OF THE EMERGENCY FIRST).

All inquiries from the media must be referred to Ian Brassett or, in his absence, Cecily Kelly. No other staff member is authorized to discuss the emergency with outside personnel. Personal information regarding the injured is considered confidential and is never to be released to the public/media. (AD.21.3)

An accident (or incident) report is to be completed by the Medical Staff with statements taken by witnesses as well as the victim. Said report should be filed with the Executive Camp Director within 24 hours for his review. Appropriate Incident Reports are to be filed by those staff members if warranted.

ACCIDENT PROCEDURES

When an accident occurs, immediately seek the assistance of Camp medical personnel. The staff member should administer care to their certified skill level until the medical personnel arrive.

First aid kits are located in the following areas:

• All camp vehicles

• OLS backpack

• Adventures in Nature

• Range

• Pool

• Climbing barn

• Houston Home Association Activities Center rocketry closet

Camp medical staff is responsible for treatment of the injury or referring the camper to a doctor.

INCIDENT AND ACCIDENT REPORTS

(AD.14.1)

Incident and Accident reports are to be completed by all staff members that witnesses the event

• ACCIDENT – An accident is a record of injury that a person sustains at camp.

• INCIDENT – A situation, trend or occurrence that warrants the attention of the Camp Director that does not involve an injury.

What Incidents/Accidents are we talking about that require documentation?

• Behavioral Problems: All fighting, serious emotional outbursts, threatening behavior/others.

• Adjustment problems: Lost or runaway campers.

• Significant Rule Violations: Any use of drugs, alcohol, cigarettes (includes e-cigarettes).

• Safety threats: Strangers on-site.

• Close calls: All significant events such as drownings, baseball whizzing by a head of a non-participant, near drownings (rescue by lifeguard)

These forms are legal documents. Be neat. Be thorough.

Incident and Accident reports are to be completed immediately following the event.

• If the event occurs at morning activities no later than lunch.

• If the event occurs during the afternoon activities no later than dinner.

• If the event occurs during the evening events, no later than curfew.

All Incident and Accident Reports are to be given to the Executive Director in a timely manner. The Executive Director, along with the Camp Director will evaluate the accident and incident reports.

If an injury occurs, the medical staff are required to document the treatment and complete the appropriate insurance forms for either the campers or counselors (if Worker’s Compensation).

Senior Staff will document all Incident and Accident reports into the log.

At the end of the summer, the Executive Director, along with the VP of member Benefits and Camp Directors will evaluate the accident and Incident reports to determine if a change in policies and procedures is necessary.

$25 Gift Card for the first two staff members to text Ian Brassett their name and the phrase “I read the Manual”.

ACCIDENT REPORTS (AD.14.1)

If an accident occurs in your presence, it is your responsibility to complete an Accident Report. This report describes the accident, time of occurrence, location, parties involved, witnesses, and other relevant information about the occurrence.

The Accident Report is a confidential INTERNAL report, so copies of the form (and the information contained therein) are never to be released to other staff members, campers, or the public. If questions arise, contact the Camp Director. Blank forms are located in the camp office and clinic.

INCIDENT REPORTS

If something unusual or out of the ordinary happens while on-duty, which has relevance to safety or operational concerns, report the incident to your Activity Supervisor. If deemed serious, prepare an Incident Report Form.

ACCIDENT / INCIDENT REPORT FORMS

So as to identify patterns of events or actions that may require corrective measures, we require that all staff members document all incidents or accidents that occur in their presence.

Incidents are events of safety or operational concerns that occur that may not result in injury. Examples may include fires, natural disasters, danger from intruders or trespassers, crises arising out of camper or staff behavior (e.g. fighting, serious emotional outbursts threatening others) or other situations posing serious threat to the safety of others. Incidents are also defined as situations where a potential serious injury from a “near miss” could have occurred but didn't or as emergencies which did not result in injuries requiring an accident report but which are potentially harmful to campers or staff, i.e., use of drugs or alcohol, lost campers, or near drowning.

Additional incidents worthy of reporting also include: (a) a camper creating a disturbance that the staff member cannot handle, (b) the breaking/damaging of equipment, (c) theft, (d) facility area that is not in proper working order, etc.

© Hermann Sons Life Camp 2023

HERMANN SONS LIFE CAMP EMERGENCY PROCEDURES & ACTION PLANS

Accidents happen, negligence cannot!

THE FOUNDATION OF A SAFE CAMP IS A FULLY PREPARED CAMP COUNSELOR.

The following pages are designed to help prepare you for the worst possible emergencies on camp. It is important that you understand these procedures.

• Risk Management is the term that describes the constant effort to make our Camp program safer and to help staff members understand their vital role in this process.

• Better training, better supervision, more anticipation, and clearer foresight – that’s what risk management is all about. Risk is an inherent part of our work.

• Interactions with the natural and man-made environment coupled with the involvement of young people in various activities presents the potential for accidental injury.

• This manual has been put together using accident and injury reports, countless risk management sessions at camping conventions, 33+ years of camp experience and documentation updated annually from Hermann Sons Life Camp.

THANK YOU TO WILLIAM THOMAS OF THE KERR COUNTY EMERGENCY SERVICES AND SUZANNE HILDEBRAND FOR REVIEWING THE PROCEDURES.

We can never eliminate risk, but we can manage it.

GENERAL INFORMATION

THERE ARE MANY TYPES OF EMERGENCIES THAT MAY ARISE DURING THE SUMMER, SOME MORE SERIOUS THAN OTHERS. YOUR REACTION AND ACTIONS ARE CRITICAL IN THESE SITUATIONS.

• It is important that you always remain calm; campers will look at you for guidance.

• It is important that you always keep the campers together in a safe environment As soon as possible, clear your group out of the incident area.

• If necessary, solicit the assistance of another counselor to supervise your group while you handle the emergency. If you hear emergency signals, it is important that you stop your activity and proceed as instructed on these pages.

• Immediately report any accident or injury sustained by a camper to the camp medical staff and help them fill out an Accident/Incident Report Form.

PARENTAL COMMUNICATION (AD.21.2)

The Camp Director, in conjunction and communication with the Executive Camp Director will be responsible for communicating with the parents. This will be done by the following modes of communication and determined by the emergency at hand.

•

PHONE CALL

• USE OF THE CAMP APP

• EMAIL

DEALING WITH THE MEDIA - PRESS OR BYSTANDERS ARRIVE (AD.21.3)

No one is authorized to deal with the media, or any other persons on camp related events except for the Executive Camp Director. No statements or interviews are to be given by a camp employee unless specifically authorized by the Executive Camp Director. The Executive Camp Director will communicate with the Home Office and the VP of Member Benefits Cecily Kelly before making any statements.

MASS EVACUATION

In the event that we must evacuate the entire camp for a large fire, we will contact the Kerr County Emergency Services and utilize several school district buses to evacuate to the Home Office in San Antonio. The Executive Director will notify all parents (Via the Camp App and Email) of the address of the Home Office and the time. We will send the Check-Out Lists to sign the campers out.

CAMP SECURITY & ACTIVE THREATS (AD.18.1)

Annually, Hermann Sons Life Camp does a risk management review of our procedures and facility in the fall. In the spring, our facility and these procedures are inspected and reviewed by our insurance company.

© Hermann Sons Life Camp 2023

CAMPER VERIFICATION AND RELEASE

(AD.23.1)

When enrolling, parents indicate during the enrollment process who is permitted to take their child off camp grounds at the end of their summer camp session. This cabin check-out form will be provided to the dorm counselor.

On ARRIVAL DAY, the dorm counselors will confirm with the parents that we have the correct names of the individuals authorized to pick-up their child.

If the names are correct – great, the counselor simply initials the card. This will be the same CABIN CHECK-OUT FORM that will be utilized by the camp when the camper departs.

If the information is incorrect, or the parent/guardian indicates someone else is picking up their child, the following procedure kicks in:

Any changes must be in writing.

• The change can be written on the cabin’s card by the parent and then initialed by the parent. The Administration will confirm that the change has been made by an approved parent/guardian.

• The counselor will highlight the change.

• This change must be given to the camp director to update the form for departure day.

ON DEPARTURE DAY - CAMPERS WILL BE CHECKED OUT FROM THE PARKING LOT

When an adult asks to check out a child:

• Ask for the name of the child or children.

• Ask for the ID of the person checking them out.

• Confirm that name is on the Cabin Check-Out Form and have them sign the form.

• If the name of the person is not on the registration card, contact the Camp Director, Assistant Director or Executive Director.

• They will call the parent or guardian to obtain permission to release the camper to this person.

Even parents whose name does not appear on the registration card must receive proper authorization before checking out. The parent will be asked to text a confirmation to the Executive Director or Camp Director.

• Do not send the person waiting to check out the camper to obtain authorization. Send another staff member.

• These procedures have been carefully developed and are necessary to protect the campers.

AUTHORIZED AND UN-AUTHORIZED PEOPLE ON CAMP

OUR

CAMP VISITATION POLICY STATES:

• All visitors (including past staff and Home Office dignitaries) must check in with the office upon arriving at camp.

• All past staff member visits must be approved by the Executive Director.

• All guests are issued a guest badge that they are required to wear during their stay.

• All visitors are required to be off camp property by 7:00 p.m. unless otherwise arranged with the Executive Director.

Some common visitors to camp include camper’s parents, past staff, friends or family of staff and Hermann Sons Life dignitaries. Greet all visitors to camp and escort them to the office to sign-in.

They must check in with a senior staff member before visiting with campers or staff. If they are unwilling to follow these directives notify the office.

AN UNAUTHORIZED VISITOR (INTRUDER) IS SOMEONE WHO IS NOT AUTHORIZED BY THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OR CAMP DIRECTORS TO BE ON-SITE.

This could be anyone who comes to camp at an unusual time or is uncooperative or acts strangely around campers or staff. An unauthorized visitor could be anyone from a non-custodial parent to a vagrant wandering onto camp.

Under no circumstances should you investigate any unusual situation yourself. Immediately report any suspicious person or activity to a senior staff member.

Be alert during Sunday check-in and Saturday check-out when large groups of visitors are on camp.

SUPERVISOR RESPONSIBILITIES

Never investigate an unusual situation alone. Notify the Camp Director or Assistant Camp Director. Do not hesitate to call the Kerr County Sheriff’s Department for assistance if you feel it necessary.

NON-CUSTODIAL PARENT

If a non-custodial parent comes to the camp to take a camper:

• If the child is not in the area, the counselor will tell another counselor to get the camper. This is a signal to secure all campers away from the administrative offices. Call the custodial parent/guardian and 911.

• If the child is within reach and view of the non-custodial parent, a counselor will be instructed to take the camper to the cabin and “pack.” Call the custodial parent/guardian and 911.

• If the non-custodial parent wants the child to stay while his/her things are brought to the office, calmly comply. Call the custodial parent/guardian and 911.

• Always remain calm. If the non-custodial parent is violent or has a weapon – CALL CODE RED (Lockdown) as quickly and secretively as possible.

ACTIVE SHOOTER

Unfortunately, in the United States there is an epidemic of mass shootings. Between 2000 and 2016, 661 people have been killed with 825 wounded. We need to be prepared. While the likelihood of an incident occurring is very low, we must know what to do in the event of an incident.

We will review an Active Shooter drill during staff development. The three main components of an Active Shooter policy are:

• RUN/ESCAPE – If possible, put as much distance between yourself and the shooting incident.

• HIDE – When you have run, find cover and conceal yourself away from danger. If escape is not possible due to the proximity of the shooter, hide/barricade yourself into a room. Lock the door.

• FIGHT – Only as a last resort. Only if absolutely necessary.

© Hermann Sons Life Camp 2023

EMERGENCY LOCK-DOWN PROCEDURES

When an announcement is made that camp is in “lock-down,” by using the code “red” counselors should lock the doors, have campers move to the bathrooms, position the group farthest from the windows and turn off the lights. Everyone should stay quiet. If campers are outside when a lock-down begins, counselors should escort them to the closest building and follow the previously listed procedures.

All other staff should go to the closest building to them or stay in the building they are in. They should then go to an interior room without windows, lock the door, turn off the lights and stay quiet. Lock-down will end when the Executive Director or Camp Director comes through the building and announces that Lock-Down is over by stating the approved “All is clear” password.

• “ *Gold * Gold * Gold * “

• This person will open the door with a key and announce that he/she is entering the room.

• If the person tries to open the door using the “under duress” password – BLOCK THE DOOR.

• “ * Hermann * Hermann * Hermann * “

LOST CAMPER & LOST SWIMMER

DRILLS (AD.20.1)

• We will conduct lost camper and a lost swimmer drill during staff development. If a camper is missing at the waterfront, the lost swimmer drill at the waterfront will be implemented.

• If the camper is missing after dark, the Night-time Missing Camper Procedures will be implemented.

When a child is missing, stay calm.

Have you checked the Clinic? Administration Building? Cabin? If the child is still missing…

1. GATHER AS MUCH INFORMATION AS POSSIBLE.

a. Initiate a Code Amber over the radio.

b. Where was the child last seen? Get specifics.

c. Was the child alone?

d. Does the child have any special medical needs?

e. Is there any reason they may have wandered off?

f. Description of clothing and any potential medical issues.

2. IMMEDIATELY NOTIFY A SUPERVISOR.

a. Give details gathered from (1).

b. Your location.

c. Time the camper was discovered missing. d. Agree upon time for search to end (15 minutes from notification).

3. CONDUCT A CAMP-WIDE SEARCH.

a. One-person will be in-charge of the search (Camp Director). b. Check the clinic and the camper’s cabin immediately.

c. Check the administrative office for an early departure (signed-out). d. Check the camper’s activity schedule.

e. Keep all other campers supervised. Perform a head count.

4. SEARCHING FOR A CAMPER.

a. The Executive Camp Director, Assistant Camp Director or senior staff member will brief the staff as to who is missing, where they were last seen and what the camper was wearing.

b. Searchers should go out in pairs.

TIME IS CRITICAL!

Better safe than sorry. Do not hesitate to let us know if a camper is missing!

TIME IS CRITICAL!

Better safe than sorry. Do not hesitate to let us know if a camper is missing!

TIME IS CRITICAL!

Better safe than sorry. Do not hesitate to let us know if a camper is missing!

TIME IS CRITICAL!

Better safe than sorry. Do not hesitate to let us know if a camper is missing!

c. Each searcher should have a map, radio (or cell phone), flashlight and noisemaker (whistle).

d. Searchers should cover specific routes/areas.

e. Searchers should call out for the camper. Make noise.

f. End the search at a specific time.

g. Inform based on a “need to know” basis. See also Mass Hysteria policy.

5. STILL MISSING?

a. Bring all campers and staff to the flagpole and conduct a headcount.

b. Contact the other camp (HT or RS). Inform the director.

c. Dial 911. Kerr County emergency services has a NASAR certified Search and Rescue team.

d. At this time, contact the parents (Camp Director or Executive Director).

NIGHT-TIME MISSING CAMPER PROCEDURE

When a child is missing at night, stay calm.

1. INITIAL SEARCH:

a. Immediately search the cabin area and the bathrooms.

b. Perform a head count. Everybody in the correct bed?

c. If the immediate search does not locate the camper, initiate a Code Amber and contact the Camp Director or Senior Staff incharge.

d. The senior staff will check the clinic immediately. If still missing,

e. Perform a head count and bed check-in all cabins.

2. GATHER AS MUCH INFORMATION AS POSSIBLE.

a. Where was the child last seen? Get specifics.

b. Was the child alone?

c. Does the child have any special medical needs?

d. Is there any reason they may have wandered off?

e. Double-check all cabins. Double check all restrooms. Clinic?

3. SEARCHING FOR A CAMPER.

a. The Executive Camp Director, Assistant Camp Director or senior staff member will brief the staff as to who is missing, where they were last seen and what the camper was wearing.

b. Searchers should go out in pairs.

c. Each searcher should have a map, radio (or cell phone), flashlight and noise- maker (whistle).

d. Searchers should cover specific routes/areas.

e. Searchers should call out for the camper. Make noise.

f. End the search at a specific time.

g. Inform based on a “need to know” basis. See also Mass Hysteria policy. Care must be taken not to frighten, misinform, or alarm the other campers. Hysteria will only compound a bad situation.

4. STILL MISSING?

a. Contact the other camp (HT or RS). Inform the director.

b. Contact the local Sheriff (Approximately 1 hour).

c. At this time, contact the parents (Camp Director or Executive Director).

TIME IS CRITICAL!

Better safe than sorry. Do not hesitate to let us know if a camper is missing!

TIME IS CRITICAL!

Better safe than sorry. Do not hesitate to let us know if a camper is missing!

TIME

IS CRITICAL!

Better safe than sorry. Do not hesitate to let us know if a camper is missing!

TIME IS CRITICAL!

Better safe than sorry. Do not hesitate to let us know if a camper is missing!

MISSING PERSON ON THE RIVER - Post at the River

If a person is unaccounted for and it is strongly suspected that the person is in the river (overturned canoe), the staff should:

a. Initiate a Code Amber and request medical staff.

b. Hail the camper loudly and clearly. Request information from other canoers and remove them from the area.

c. Contact Camp Director via emergency radio or cell phone and request a cabin check.

d. Send other available staff to search shoreline. One staff should remain on dock.

e. If the missing person is unaccounted for, all available staff will be sent to river to assist in “lost swimmer drill”

f. Medical staff will contact EMS services if the situation warrants emergency medical care

NEAR DROWNING AND DROWNING ALERTS (PA.3.1)

Drowning is one of the leading causes of accidental death in children. It occurs quickly, often quietly, in that brief moment when you were talking to a friend, went to the bathroom, or got distracted. We must all obey the safety rules and remain observant when in and around water. There is to be no swimming or canoeing by campers or staff unless lifeguards are on duty.

NEAR DROWNING PROCEDURE

1. Lifeguards will use three whistle blasts to signal an emergency. All counselors will begin to calmly clear the pool/river unless otherwise directed by the lifeguard. Campers and nonessential staff should leave the area.

2. Initiate a Code Blue.

3. Lifeguards will enter the pool/river according to appropriate rescue protocols.

4. Lifeguards will remove the injured participant’s face from the water immediately. If the cause of injury is unknown or if there is a likelihood of a head/neck injury, the lifeguard(s) will immobilize according to spinal injury management methods.

5. Get help.

a. At the pool: A designated staff member will call the Medical Staff via walkie-talkie and ask for Medical Staff Assistance, alerting them that "There is a Code Blue situation at the Pool." The Medical Staff will designate someone to call 911 and respond with needed equipment to the pool. Initiate a Code Blue.

b. At the river: A lifeguard will call Medical Staff via walkie-talkie (or phone) and ask for Medical Staff assistance, alerting them that "There is a Code Blue situation at the Riverfront," and letting them know what the situation is. The Medical Staff will call 911 and send Medical Staff and equipment needed at the river. Initiate a code Blue.

6. The lifeguards will coordinate the safe removal of the victim from the water.

7. If the camper does not need CPR, administer First Aid as needed.

8. If the camper does need CPR, connect oxygen to ambu bag and use ambu bag for rescue breathing. Use strong force. Administer CPR per protocol. Continue CPR until Medical Staff arrives or until the victim resumes breathing and a pulse can be measured.

PROCEDURES FOR MEDICAL STAFF

• Bring emergency response kit and report to the scene of the emergency.

• Confirm that 911 is being called.

• Confirm the identity of the victim and get the medical form for transportation.

• Care for the patient until emergency services arrives.

ENVIRONMENTAL EMERGENCIES

The Camp Directors in conjunction with the Executive Camp Director will be responsible for coordinating responses to all environmental emergencies and directing the actions of the staff.

FLASH FLOOD EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN

It is important for all of our staff to understand the seriousness of these policies and procedures. In 1987, the Guadalupe River took the lives of 10 campers from the Pot- OfGold Camp, our neighbor.

PREPARATION

We are constantly vigilant to the potential of a flash flood, especially for the Riverside camp site.

a. FLOOD WATCH: METEOROLOGICAL CONDITIONS EXIST THAT COULD CREATE FLOODING.

The Executive Camp Director and Camp Directors will keep in contact with the authorities for reports on the amount of rainfall on the upper Guadalupe River watershed and river conditions.

Staff will be briefed as necessary by the Director. Should conditions warrant a “shelter in place” or evacuation order will be given and communicated by the director.

b. FLOOD WARNING – FLOOD CONDITIONS ARE IMMINENT.

Letters have been sent to local authorities advising them of our summer camp schedule. The Kerr County Sheriff’s Department or Comfort Volunteer Fire Department will contact Camp with river conditions.

c. EVACUATION.

If severe flooding conditions are predicted (30-foot crest or greater) all Riverside campers and staff will be moved to the Hilltop Camp There are two types of evacuation; Phase One being in the event of little or no notification or Phase two where there is some advance notice.

1. PHASE 1 - EVACUATION

This evacuation procedure is used in the event of late or no notification.

a.

b. Staff will be alerted that an extreme emergency condition exists and to move to higher ground. Be Calm. Organize campers and/or other staff and walk up the hill to the Retirement Home. Keep together with at least one counselor leading and one counselor following your group. Do not stop from departure to destination at any time.

c. At the Retirement Home we will do a head count for all campers and staff.

d. Once all campers and staff have been accounted for, we will transport the campers and staff to theHilltop Camp.

e. Do not attempt to move personal property unless instructed to do so.

2.

PHASE 2 - EVACUATION

This evacuation procedure is used when advance warning is received.

a. You will be alerted that an emergency condition exists and to wait further instructions.

b. You will be instructed to organize campers and/or other staff and move to the Retirement Home.

c. Keep together with at least one counselor leading and one counselor following your group. Do not stop from departure to destination at any time.

d. At the Retirement Home we will do a head count for all campers and staff.

e. Once all campers and staff have been accounted for, we will transport the campers and staff to the Hilltop Camp.

f. Do not attempt to move personal property unless instructed to do so.

Because of established early warning systems, Phase 2 will be the most likely procedure used in the event of an evacuation.

BRIEFING FOR CAMPERS AND STAFF

When all have arrived safely to Hilltop Camp, the Camp Directors will explain to the campers why we have moved and what is planned for the day. Some details may be given to staff but kept from campers. Remember, stay calm. The campers will feed from your energy. This is an adventure. When weather conditions permit, the campers and staff will be transported back to the Riverside Camp. Campers and staff will follow an adapted program until it is safe to return to Riverside or an early departure becomes necessary and can be arranged.

DO NOT CONTACT YOUR PARENTS AT THIS STAGE. It will set off alarm bells and a lot of needless concern for many parents. Information stays in house and your focus is on the campers. Once we have communicated with all the parents of the campers, we will schedule time for staff to reach out to their parents.

NOTIFICATION

The Executive Camp Director will inform the V.P. of Member Benefits at the Home Office with details of current conditions and discuss the plans. Immediately after contacting the Home Office, the Executive Director will contact all of our parents to let them know that their child(ren) are safe. This communication will also let the parents know when they should hear back from the camp, i.e., at 8 a.m. tomorrow morning we will give you a briefing on the campers and the status of camp.

If cancellation of the camp week becomes necessary, parents will be contacted with checkout details. The Home Office may help with contacting parents.

MEDIA

The Home Office Communications Director will be contacted about notification of the media.

LIGHTNING - EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN

There is no safe place outside when thunderstorms are in the area. If you hear thunder, you are likely within striking distance of the storm. Just remember,

WHEN THUNDER ROARS, GO INDOORS

• Don’t forget the 30-30 rule. After you see lightning, start counting to 30.

• If you hear thunder before you reach 30, go indoors (HHAC, Admin Building, Dorm or the Dining Hall).

• Contact the Admin Office immediately. Suspend activities for at least 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder.

• If no shelter is available, crouch low, with as little of your body touching the ground as possible. Lightning causes electric currents along the top of the ground that can be deadly over 100 feet away.

The Hilltop Camp is built on a rock shelf making it more prone to lightning strikes. In the event of severe weather conditions, take the following precautions to minimize the danger of being struck by lightning.

• Do not take shelter under trees or near metal objects such as fences, metal railings, light or flagpoles, etc.

• If your hair suddenly stands on end, drop to your knees, bend forward and place your hands on your knees. This may not prevent you from being struck but will minimize the flow of current between you and the ground. Get to cover as soon as possible.

PRECAUTIONS TAKEN AT HERMANN SONS LIFE CAMP

WEATHER WATCH:

Like the Flash Flood warnings, our Executive Director has apps on his smart phone which track inclement weather and thunderstorms

• A “Watch” indicates that conditions are favorable for severe weather to develop.

• A “Warning” means that severe weather has been detected and may be imminent to the locale The Camp Director or Executive Camp Director will notify the staff of predicted weather hazards.

• Flash-to-bang rule: The observer begins counting once sighting a lightning flash. Counting is stopped at the sound of related thunder. The count is then divided by five (5) to determine the proximity in miles of the lightning strike. (5 seconds = 1 mile; 50 seconds = 10 miles, etc.).

LIGHTNING INJURY RESPONSE

• Ensure scene safety (victims do not carry an electrical charge and can be touched). Follow local protocols.

• IF appropriate and safe, move the victim to a safe place away from the threat of another lightning strike.

• Summon an ambulance as needed according to local protocols. CPR and/or AED may be necessary

• Heart irregularities, shock, or sudden loss of consciousness are possible.

• Keep the conscious victim calm and monitor closely

ALL CLEAR

The Director will continue to monitor the proximity of thunderstorms and utilize local observations to make an informed decision, determining the appropriate time to recommend reopening outdoor activities. Management may then allow for normal activities to resume after 30 minutes of no detected lightning strikes within a 10-mile radius of the site.

©

TORNADO EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN

TORNADO PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE

• If a tornado "WATCH" is issued for your area, it means that a tornado is "possible."

• If a tornado "WARNING" is issued, it means that a tornado has actually been spotted, or is strongly indicated on radar, and it is time to go to a safe shelter immediately.

Be alert to what is happening outside as well. If you see a tornado and it is not moving to the right or to the left relative to trees or power poles in the distance, it may be moving toward you!

TORNADO INDICATORS

• Strong persistent rotation in the cloud base.

• A sickly greenish or greenish black color to the sky.

• A strange quiet that occurs within or shortly after the thunderstorm.

• Clouds moving by very fast, especially in a rotating pattern or converging toward one area of the sky.

• Whirling dust or debris on the ground under a cloud base ─ tornadoes sometimes have no funnel!

• Hail or heavy rain followed by either dead calm or a fast, intense wind shift.Many tornadoes are wrapped in heavy precipitation and can't be seen.

• Day or night: Loud, continuous roar or rumble, which doesn't fade in a few seconds like thunder.

• Night: Small, bright, blue-green to white flashes at ground level near a thunderstorm (as opposed to silvery lightning up in the clouds). These mean power lines are being snapped by very strong wind, maybe a tornado.

• Night: Persistent lowering from the cloud base, illuminated or silhouetted by lightning ─ especially if it is on the ground or there is a blue-green-white power flash underneath. including main corridors insofar as possible. Crouch near the floor or under heavy, well- supported objects and cover your head.

IMMEDIATE ACTION

• If a tornado or tornados are in the vicinity of the camp, prepare to find shelter immediately.

• If you have not been alerted by the Camp Admin to

a tornado but you see one in the area, immediately notify the office.

• When there is a tornado warning or you see one, take shelter immediately! A tornado WARNING means not just that a severe weather is likely but also that a tornado has actually been spotted nearby or is indicated on weather radar. Find and stay in a safe place right away.

• REMAIN CALM. AVOID PANIC. There is no guaranteed safe place during a tornado, but you will minimize your exposure by finding shelter in the best possible location.

• AREAS TO SEEK: Rooms and corridors in the innermost part of a building at the lowest level possible. Close all doors,

• AREAS TO AVOID: Stay clear of windows, corridors with windows or large free-standing expanses such as auditoriums and cafeterias. DO NOT use elevators during a tornado warning.

IF YOU ARE CAUGHT OUTDOORS

• Seek shelter in a shelter or sturdy building.

• If there is a sturdy structure available, go inside.

• Being below the prevailing ground level may shield you from some of the tornado wind and flying debris, but there is still danger from those.

AFTER A TORNADO STRIKE

• Remain calm and listen for information and instructions from emergency personnel.

• We will assemble at the soccer field while the buildings are assessed for damage.

• We will notify the Home Office and communicate with the parents through them.

• Give first aid when appropriate. Don't try to move the seriously injured unless they are in immediate danger of further injury.

• Stay away from power lines and puddles with wires in them; they may still be carrying electricity.

• Watch your step to avoid broken glass, nails and other sharp objects.

• Stay out of any heavily damaged buildings; they

could collapse at any time.

• Do not use matches or lighters, in case of leaking natural gas pipes or fuel tanks nearby.

AFTER TORNADO

After the danger has passed a team appointed by the Executive Director will survey the

© Hermann Sons Life Camp 2023

damage. The Home Office will be contacted to help notify parents and prepare a public statement. If damage is substantial, the Executive will arrange for early dismissal. If damage is not major, the schedule will be adjusted for camp to continue.

WILD ANIMALS

It is always a good practice to view wildlife from a distance and do not approach them. If an animal harms anyone notify the medical staff immediately. Any situations which involve potentially dangerous wildlife being too close to us, do not touch or disturb the wildlife. Inform the Camp Director of the location of the potentially dangerous animal (Mtn Lion, bobcat, coyote, snake, etc.) If an animal threatens you, please inform the Camp Director.

SPIDERS

All spiders carry venom. Leave them alone and they will leave you alone.

Brown Recluse spiders and Black Widow spiders are occasionally seen on our camp site. If a camper or staff member has been bitten, they should be taken to the Clinic immediately.

The Health Care Staff will begin emergency procedures for bites.

• Neither spider bite is fatal; however, nausea and discomfort may accompany the bite.

BEE/WASP/HORNET/YELLOW JACKET STINGS

If someone is stung by a bee, apply sting reliever to the area that was stung and take them to the medical staff for further evaluation. If you know the person stung is allergic to bees take them to the Clinic IMMEDIATELY and notify the Health Care Staff via walkie-talkie of a possible allergic reaction (so the medical staff know what to expect).

SCORPION

S

Brown Bark Scorpions are found in Texas. Before the summer, all our buildings are treated to hopefully prevent the appearance of any and all insects in the dorms and buildings. However, be aware that they are here and that their stings react somewhat like a bee or wasp sting.

• All reactions to animal or insect bites are highly individualized and should be closely watched.

• Persons who have been stung by a scorpion should be taken to the Clinic immediately.

SNAKES

Snakes are as scared of you as you are of them. Do not reach under logs or other cool dark areas. If you see a snake in the distance, calmly walk away.

• If a camper or counselor is bitten by a snake, call for Medical Staff to help.

• If someone is knowledgeable about snakes, ask them to identify the type of snake, but no one should approach, attempt to catch or contain the snake.

FIRE EMERGENCIES

FIRE DRILL

We will conduct a fire drill on the first day of every session. These drills are to be taken seriously.

We must account for all campers and staff immediately. Once we have a count, the director will give the welcome orientation.

• In the event of an emergency being called, and during the Fire Drill, all campers and staff are to report to the Flagpole and stand in straight lines.

• Counselors must be at the front and rear of their cabin lines. Each counselor is to do a head count. Repeat at least twice. Be certain.

• When asked for a head count by a senior staff member, they should respond: i. With the number of camper’s present and four staff members. ALL ACCOUNTED FOR or ii. If a camper or counselor is not present, you would report: 31 campers, 3 counselors, One counselor Off-Off, One camper unaccounted for and last seen at Archery, or One camper was a no-show.

BUILDING FIRE

If a fire is sighted, the staff should evacuate the area immediately of campers and staff If inside a building, remove all campers from the building. An orderly exit through doors is expected. If a fire emergency occurs in a cabin and the front door is not accessible, campers and staff are directed to exit through the rear exit or through one of the cabin’s windows by pushing out the screens. There is an emergency evacuation card in each cabin.

• Report the location of the fire immediately and accurately.

• If the fire is small, and you are safely able to do so extinguish with a fire extinguisher and notify the camp director of the incident. An Incident Report Form will be completed.

• If fire is too large to extinguish, immediately contact the main office via emergency radio or send a runner to the office (or nearest radio contact) with the fire's location. The office will dial 911.

• An all-camp alert will be sounded. (See above).

• If the fire is in a location near the flagpole area, the emergency line-up will be used.

• Hilltop – On the lower tennis court.

• Riverside – On the tennis court.

LOCATION OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

All buildings have a fire extinguisher. This includes all cabins, the camp office, the clinic, dining hall, maintenance, staff lounge, HHAC Building and the camp vehicles. The Fire Extinguishers are checked annually by an outside company. Please make sure your campers know they must not play with the extinguishers.

USING A FIRE EXTINGUISHER

P = Pull the pin on the extinguisher.

A = Aim the extinguisher’s nozzle at the base of the fire.

S = Squeeze or press the handle.

S = Sweep from side to side at the base of the fire until it goes out.

Watch for re-flash and reactivate the extinguisher if necessary.

SMOKE DETECTION EQUIPMENT

All buildings in camp designed for living are complete with a smoke detector. It is the counselor’s responsibility to make sure the smoke detector is operating at the beginning of each session. If you take out the battery, you must replace the battery immediately… even at 2:00 a.m. It is a crime for anyone to tamper with fire protection equipment. Removal of a battery (without replacing the battery) or removing a smoke detector is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 or six months in jail.

WILDFIRE

In the event of a wildland, brush or grass fire, please report it immediately and remove yourself and the campers away from the fire to an upwind location far away from the incident. When notifying the Directors, please give as much information as possible.

The Executive Camp Director and Camp Directors will be responsible for coordinating responses and directing the actions of the staff in conjunction with the appropriate authorities. As in any emergency, keep campers together. Places to go prior to transportation arriving or in the event that transportation will not be possible include the tennis courts, pool area, and parking lot.

HERMANN SONS LIFE CAMP WELL-CAMP POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

(ST.21)

It is the primary responsibility of all staff members to care for the health and safety of all campers and staff. The policies and procedures for operating a safe camp will be evaluated annually.

The policies and procedures detailed in the following pages will be adapted through the spring by using the ACA Camp guidelines and the Texas Administrative Code that governs Youth Camps and Health and Safety in Texas.

Hermann Sons Life Camp’s primary concern is the health and safety of all campers and staff members who live and work on the campgrounds. The Well-Camp Policies have been developed to create a culture of healthy living and to develop policies and procedures that will foster good practices and habits amongst both staff and campers.

Illness and contagion will never be completely eradicated from schools and camps. Enforcing and implementing a culture where good healthy practices exist will help in reducing the spread of sickness and is an essential part of running a top-rated summer camp program.

Camps and schools are traditional breeding grounds for the spread of germs. Hermann Sons Life Camp is the summer home for campers from all over Texas as well staff from across the world.

In this (post?) Covid-19 environment, keeping a healthy camp environment will be even more critical. While we cannot guarantee that an outbreak of lice, pink eye (conjunctivitis) or Covid-19 will not occur, we will be implementing procedures to reduce the likelihood of spread.

In our daily routines we must set the example and teach campers the importance of healthy living.

• Is everyone on camp getting enough rest?

• Is everyone on camp eating properly?

• Is everyone washing their hands and using the hand sanitizer?

• Is everyone on camp drinking enough water?

• Is everyone on camp dressed appropriately for the weather?

• Is everyone on camp using sunscreen and lip balm?

• Is everyone on camp following the safety rules at the activity sites? These will all be addressed at length during staff development.

In 2023, Hermann Sons Life Camp will have a fully staffed clinic at both Hilltop and Riverside camps. The clinic staff cannot be solely responsible for the health, safety, and welfare of our campers.

As a staff we must ensure that the FOCUS is on the health and safety of the children in our care.

• A child cannot be healthy if they do not drink plenty of water.

• A child cannot be healthy if they skip meals.

• A child cannot be healthy if they do not wear sunscreen and lip balm.

• A child cannot be healthy if they do not rest or get enough sleep.

Hermann Sons Life Camp 2023

CLINIC PROTOCOL

The goal of this health care policy and plan is to ensure the health and safety of all campers (and staff) so that they may participate in all activities to the maximum of their capabilities. This goal will be accomplished by providing:

• Effective screening to identify problems within 24 hours of a camper or staff member’s arrival to camp.

• Dispensing of prescribed medications for ongoing problems provided they arrive in their original packaging.

• First Aid for minor injuries and illnesses.

• Referral to outside medical resources for all other injuries and illnesses.

• Education of staff to promote general well-being among both campers and staff.

Medical care by a licensed nurse or EMT will be provided. Anyone requiring evaluation and treatment beyond the scope of the camp’s Treatment Procedures will be referred to an appropriate facility and/or their own physician. Hermann Sons Life Camp recognizes the HIPAA law. Copies of this law are posted, in easily accessed areas. Every precaution will be taken to keep medical information confidential. Information will be provided to cabin counselors who live with campers and activity instructors on an as-needed basis. This is done in simple code, to further protect the confidentiality of the camper.

All staff and campers will go through the health screening process. Qualified personnel under the direction of the Licensed Nurse will do the screening. All Campers and staff are required to have a completed Health History Form on file.

Our medical staff will receive camper health history forms prior to campers’ arrival. This allows time for review.

• Incomplete forms or any concerns that arise after review can then be addressed prior to campers’ arrival.

• Review of staff forms will occur at the beginning of staff training or within the first 24 hours whenever a new staff member is hired.

It is important to note that all medications must be entrusted to the care of the Medical Staff and kept under lock and key in the Clinic. Under no circumstances can any medication (camper OR STAFF) be left in the cabin. This includes vitamins, contraception (the pill) and aspirin (HW.13)

PLEASE NOTE:

The Medical Staff will not dispense prescribed medication to the adult staff (18+). Staff Member’s medication will be available to the staff throughout the day.

Campers should not be in possession of medication at any time. The only exception to this rule is the carrying of injectable epinephrine (epi-pens) and rescue inhalers. Campers (and staff) are allowed to carry these after it has been assessed that they know how to use them without assistance. Medications should be collected during check in. These will then be reviewed and distributed accordingly.

HEALTH CARE

We expect the cabin staff to be aware of the health condition of each camper assigned to their cabin. If ever a camper makes any type of complaint of not feeling well or indicating any situation involving a medical problem, bring the camper to the Clinic to be checked out by the nurses at sick call (after meals and after the night-time activity).

In case of injury or serious illness radio the Clinic immediately. The only people authorized to diagnose a medical situation are the camp’s medical staff. If any of the following symptoms appear, we expect the camper’s counselors to make sure the camper reports to the Clinic at the earliest available sick call.

• Does he or she complain about earaches, headaches, constipation, diarrhea, sore throat, being sluggish or tired?

• Are there any signs of skin rashes, abrasions, infections, sunburn?

• Has the child lost his/her appetite? Has he eaten too much junk food?

• Is the child irritable? Is he or she getting enough sleep?

• Does his or her face seem flushed?

• Are his or her eyes inflamed, increased redness and watering more than usual?

SICK CALL

Sick Call is to be scheduled four times daily: After breakfast, after lunch and after dinner. We also have a sick call scheduled after the evening activity has ended (from 9:00 p m until 10:00 p m ), however this sick call is primarily intended for campers who are required to take bedtime medications. Medications must always be taken BEFORE 10 p.m

It is important for the health of the camp that we keep track of our campers’ health.

• Are they getting run-down/tired?

• Are they eating correctly?

• Are they drinking water?

• Are they becoming irritable?

• Do they complain of headaches?

• Are they beginning to cough? Coughing through the night?

If so, please make sure they pop in and see the medical staff. Campers often will try to disguise illness because they do not want to “miss out” on any part of camp. It is our job to look-out for the campers and protect them from themselves.

MEDICATIONS

Counselors are required to supervise their campers in the line outside the Clinic.

• All campers must be escorted.

• Emergencies should be brought to the attention of the nurse immediately regardless of the time of day.

SUNSCREEN & LIP BALM

Hermann Sons Life Camp is located in TEXAS!!!! It is typically very hot, and very sunny!

It is important that campers and staff use sunscreen every day. At Hermann Sons Life Camp we will supply sunscreen to both campers and staff who do not have it. Sunscreen is available outside the Clinic and at the dining hall. As a staff member, please assist your campers with the application of sunscreen.

Sunburn is a sign of neglect!

While most campers have lip balm, there will be lip balm or Vaseline available in the clinic.

Chapped lips are a sign of neglect!

HYDRATION

Please explain the purpose of this policy to the campers. To prevent dehydration (and the inevitable sickness that follows), campers and staff must drink water. Lots of water.

• Campers AND STAFF may have punch/tea after they have had a minimum of 2 glasses of water.

• Campers AND STAFF are required to carry a water bottle with them from breakfast through dinner.

• After each meal, the water bottle should be filled from the igloos outside the dining halls and at the various activity sites.

WATER BOTTLES " # $ %

Please make sure your campers have their water bottles with them when they leave the cabin, dining hall, and activity site. LEAD BY EXAMPLE! Campers and staff must drink at least 4-5 bottles of water daily.

WATER BOTTLE REFILLS

We will be investing in large 10-gallon water jugs from which campers may refill their water bottles. These water jugs will be set up around camp and sanitized twice daily and at each refill. The water bottles do not touch the faucet. We are also in the process of installing water bottle filling stations in the dorms.

RESPONSE IN CAMP TO A POSITIVE TEMPERATURE IN 2023

This summer, we will be quicker to respond to a temperature, persistent cough and other symptoms related to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Camper or staff temp at 100.40F

NO MEDS

Temp is retaken after 45 minutes.

Temp <100.4 0F

Temp = /+100.40F

Sr. Counselor packs camper. stuff to porch of the clinic.

Parent Called. Camper/ Staff removed from camp.

Sr. Counselor / medical staff reassure and hang with camper until pickup

Return to activities. Monitor and retest at next meal.

Senior staff re: clean and sanitize the dorm. HK thoroughly disinfect all areas dorm visited in past 24 hrs.

Email parents of campers in dorm that a camper had a temp temp.

Recheck entire dorm at subsequent 2 meals.

RESPONSE PLAN

CONTAGIOUS DISEASES

It is common knowledge that both schools and camps are well-known breeding grounds for contagious diseases. Along with a tight screening process, it is important that as a camp we concentrate on making sure everyone practices good, healthy living habits such as:

• Do not share drinks.

• Do not share towels.

• Eat healthily.

• Drink lots of water.

• Be mindful of little coughs and sneezes.

HOW GERMS SPREAD

• Sneeze into your sleeve.

• Wash your hands often and correctly.

• Keep a clean cabin environment.

• Correct sanitation procedures.

• Rest and sleep

The main way that illnesses like colds and flu are spread is from person to person in respiratory droplets of coughs and sneezes. This is called "droplet spread."

This can happen when droplets from a cough or sneeze of an infected person move through the air and are deposited on the mouth or nose of people nearby. Sometimes germs can also be spread when a person touches respiratory droplets from another person on a surface like a desk and then touches his or her own eyes, mouth or nose before washing their hands. We know that some viruses and bacteria can live 2 hours or longer on surfaces like cafeteria tables, doorknobs, and desks.

HOW TO STOP THE SPREAD OF GERMS

In a nutshell:

• Cover your mouth and nose.

• Clean your hands often.

• Remind the campers about healthy habits.

COVER YOUR COUGH

Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. Cough or sneeze into a tissue and then throw it away. Cover your cough or sneeze WITH YOUR SLEEVE if you do not have a tissue. Then, clean your hands, and do so every time you cough or sneeze.

CORRECT HAND WASHING TECHNIQUES

The "Happy Birthday" song helps keep your hands clean? Not exactly. However, it is recommended that when you wash your hands with soap and warm water that you wash for 20 seconds. That's about the same time it takes to sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice!

HAND SANITIZER

Hand Sanitizer does not replace the need for our campers and staff to wash their hands frequently. In conjunction with regular hand washing, the use of hand sanitizer will help prevent the spread of germs and viruses throughout camp.

CAMPER AND STAFF SHOWERS

It is camp policy that all campers AND STAFF must take AT LEAST ONE SHOWER EVERY DAY.

BRUSHING TEETH

All campers must brush their teeth in the morning and at night. This is not optional!

REST

After lunch, it is important that all campers rest. This is imperative. All campers must be on their bed resting. Some campers may wish to read. That is ok. During lunch counselors will be instructed how long campers must be on their bed and quiet.

• Campers aged 11 and younger must be in bed by 10:00 p.m. at the latest.

• Campers aged 12-14 and older must be in bed by 10:30 p m at the latest

IDENTIFYING THE COMMUNICABLE DISEASE IN CAMP

The most important people in identifying a potential communicable disease in camp is the dorm counselor. It is not solely the role of the camp’s medical staff. Active Supervision by the dorm counselors will spot if a camper “is not themselves.” Active supervision by the dorm counselor will hear a lingering cough, see a camper’s eyes watering or more frequent trips to the restroom.

The dorm counselor in these situations is required to direct the camper to the medical staff for triage and diagnosis.

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

Hermann Sons Life Camp has given considerable attention to emergency procedures to follow in case of a natural disasters or onsite emergency. The Hermann Sons Life Camp staff will review and practice these procedures during staff development.

PERSONAL INJURY

Staff should refer to Work Related Injury Protocol, which is available in the clinic if they are injured while in performance of their assigned work duties.

Minor injuries such as small cuts and bruises to a camper or adult should be reported to Hermann Sons Life Camp staff to be recorded in the incident log. Most activity areas have a first aid kit. We have a well-stocked Clinic and a Medical staff member to care for injuries and administer any needed medications.

Serious injuries such as cuts that require stitches or noticeable bumps will be taken care of immediately by the closest Hermann Sons Life Camp staff member and the Medical Staff will be radioed out to the scene to advise if the injured person should be taken to the hospital (See radio codes in the emergency manual).

The Medical Staff will decide if 911 needs to be called depending on the type of injury. If the nurse is not immediately available and you need to call 911, it is important that you report: type of injury, condition of the victim, age of the victim, and specific location of the injured person within Hermann Sons Life Camp. Administrative staff will make further arrangements as necessary.

The Medical Staff should be notified immediately in the event of an allergic reaction. If the allergic reaction is severe, 911 will be called immediately.

Life-threatening injuries such as unconsciousness require an immediate call to 911. Be prepared to report: type of injury, condition of the victim, age of the victim, and specific location of the injured within Hermann Sons Life Camp. Administrative staff will make further arrangements as necessary.

Unless you have a medical degree, you are not permitted to diagnose campers and question the medical course of action prescribed by the medical staff. If you disagree with a diagnosis, please talk to the camp director or nurse in private… away from the campers!

EMERGENCY HOSPITAL TRANSPORTATION

Hermann Sons Life Camp has a vehicle on site designated as our “Emergency Camp Vehicle.” Before the camp season, Hermann Sons Life Camp informed the local EMS providers of our location and the number of staff/campers we have on-site. The local EMS provider is less than 3 miles from Hermann Sons Life Camp before the town of Comfort. Ambulance will typically come from Kerrville.

Ensure that the camper has seen the Medical Staff for immediate medical treatment. Should the Medical Staff feel that hospital attention is required, the Director is notified of the situation and will arrange transportation of the camper.

A member of our medical staff may be asked to drive a car to the hospital. A copy of the camper’s medical form will be provided to the appropriate medical staff to bring to the hospital

The Medical Staff will decide if 911 needs to be called depending on the type of injury. If a Medical Staff is not immediately available and you need to call 911, it is important that you report: type of injury, condition of the victim, age of the victim and specific location of the injured person within Hermann Sons Life Camp. Administrative staff will make further arrangements as necessary.

CLEANING AND DISINFECTING THE CAMP

Cleanliness of the camp is everyone’s responsibility. As mentioned previously, the counselors are responsible for cleaning and disinfecting the dorms. We have a housekeeping staff that will be cleaning and sanitizing the common areas in camp and the kitchen staff will be responsible for ensuring the dining hall is both clean and sanitary.

KEEPING THE FACILITY CLEAN

Everyone needs to play a part in keeping the camp clean and sanitary. It is not easy. Hermann Sons Life Camp is a dusty facility! To help assist us in preventing the spread of germs, Hermann Sons Life Camp is very lucky to have a wonderful housekeeping staff whose job it is to support us in keeping the facility clean. The housekeeping staff have the following responsibilities:

• Check daily for TP/paper towels, etc.

• Clean all public bathrooms daily.

• Sanitize all doorknobs and handles.

DAILY CLEANING RESPONSIBILITIES

Hermann Sons Life Camp prides itself on operating an exciting summer camp program. In order to run many of these activities, we need to use safety equipment at many or most of the activity sites. Our job as instructors and first-line care givers is to make sure the equipment is in good working order. Hermann Sons Life Camp requires its instructors to:

• Check the equipment daily for safety, maintained in good repair and stored in a manner to safeguard its effectiveness.

• When putting the equipment on the camper (or staff), ensure it is appropriate to the size and ability of the user.

• Prior to each use, check the equipment for safety. *

• Weekly safety checks are performed by the Activity Specialists.*

Daily job lists are critical for the health and safety of the campers. Cutting corners or skipping a day here or there may well lead to a spread of disease or safety issues not being noticed. Some of the “daily jobs” that lead to a healthy camp are:

AT THE ACTIVITY SITES

• Ropes course and Zip Line helmets and gloves are sprayed with hospital grade disinfectant.

• Camp store surfaces are sanitized with Lysol.

• All water igloos are to be collected at the end of each day, cleaned and sanitized.

• All eye protection at riflery is to be cleaned with Clorox wipes.

• Pool is to be cleaned daily.

IN THE CABIN

• Counselors are required to clean and disinfect the sinks and toiles during Clean for Ice Cream.

• Counselors are required to clean and sanitize the showers after evening showers.

EMERGENCY CLEANING PROCEDURES

If there is an outbreak of a contagious nature, the following procedures must be carried out immediately:

• Sanitize area where outbreak occurred using a hospital grade disinfecting spray on all beds, walls and doors.

• All areas will be disinfected with a chemical fogger.

• Sanitize all bathroom fixtures, showers and toilets, mopping all floors using bleach diluted with water (2 parts bleach to 10 parts water).

• Sanitize all areas where there is public access, i.e. doorknobs, handrails, phones, computer keyboards, public restrooms on site using a hospital grade disinfecting spray.

• Wipe down all doors and push pull plates, as well as any hand sanitizer/soap dispensers, sinks/faucet handles etc. using a hospital grade disinfectant spray.

Chemicals used:

• Hospital grade disinfectant spray

• Clorox wipes

• Wash in hot water any items involved in the incident such as, but not limited to clothing, bedding, towels and washrags. The use of bleach will be included in the washing process whenever possible.

• Carpets involved in the incident will be cleaned and disinfected as needed.

• Where vomit, excrement or blood is involved all biohazard training procedures will be strictly adhered to including the use of, but not limited to personal protection equipment such as gloves, goggles, masks, aprons and company-supplied professional clean up kits.

• When deemed advisable by the company nurse nuisance masks will be distributed as needed and directed by the nurse.

• Bleach (diluted 2 parts bleach to 10 parts water) where safe and applicable such as hard flooring.

FRIDAY AFTERNOON OR SATURDAY MORNING WORK CREWS

In 2023, every Friday afternoon, Saturday morning and to some extent Sunday morning, Hermann Sons Life Camp staff will make a concerted effort to help ensure that the camp is maintained and prepared for the campers. Some counselors may be assigned work duties on a Friday afternoon or Saturday morning to do additional cleaning as needed to help our senior counselors and activity specialists to create an environment that is clean, healthy and running safely.

• Inspection and maintenance of all equipment used in our program areas. Written records of these inspections must be given to the Camp Director.

• All tumbling mats are to be wiped down with hospital grade disinfectant.

• All lost and found water bottles are to be taken to the kitchen to be washed in the commercial dishwasher. These bottles are to be placed in a clean plastic container and taken to the Clinic for distribution.

• Hermann Sons Life Camp rifles as well as the inside of the gun safe are to be cleaned and sanitized. Clorox disinfecting wipes are to be used to sanitize the guns and they must then be cleaned using Remington and Hoppes solvent and cotton balls and finished with Hoppes oil.

• Equipment at the Challenge and climbing activity is to be cleaned and sanitized following the procedures, and using the products, approved by the ropes course director.

• All surfaces in the offices and staff lounges are to be wiped down with Clorox wipes and sprayed with Lysol.

• The refrigerator is to be sanitized and all expired foods items are to be put in the trash

• Check all cabins using the cabin checklist. This checklist includes testing each fire alarm, checking lights, water, lost and found, radios, fans, sanitizer and more.

• Organize the Arts and Crafts shed and prepare supplies for the following week.

• Trash pick-up.

• Prepare and organize the bulletin boards.

• Decorate the dining halls for the theme of the week.

• Collect all Lost and Found.

• How does the flagging along the road look?

• Prepare water bottles for arrival day. Place on the camper’s bed.

• Prepare the arrival checklists for the front gate and the pool (swim tests).

• Help with traffic control.

FOOD SERVICE

The following procedures will be implemented at the dining halls of both Riverside and Hilltop. The changes made are to ensure we provide our campers (and staff) with a safe dining experience.

Most of the procedures and policies for our kitchen staff should be followed in any year. Safe food handling to prevent cross-contamination, proper hygiene for all staff, acceptable cooking practices and correct cleaning and sanitation are must-dos for any kitchen.

KEY CHANGES TO THE KITCHEN

• Increased staff due to the increased workload, specifically the increase in cleaning and sanitizing.

• Strict adherence to no outside kitchen staff allowed in the kitchens.

• Documentation of staff training on policies and procedures.

• Slight menu changes to accommodate the need for easier service.

DINING HALL PROCEDURES

• Campers and counselors wash their hands before being called to the DH in their dorms. One dorm is to be called for each serving line. Two at a time.

• Once there is only one or two campers left to be served in the dorm, we will call the next dorm online to repeat the process.

• Once the campers have their food, the campers will then report to their assigned tables.

SERVING

• The main food will be served cafeteria style.

• We will be unable to accommodate special diets and private food into the kitchen.

• Individual serving packets of sugar, ketchup, mustard, relish, mayonnaise, Italian dressing, ranch dressing, BBQ sauce will be used to replace the bulk dispensers.

SEATING

• Each dorm will be assigned a set of tables.

• Each grouping of tables will be a minimum of 6 feet from another set of tables.

WHY WE SIT BY CABIN

As a counselor, this is an important time in the day.

• You are required to ensure campers are eating properly at each meal. It is simple neglect to allow campers to not eat something and drink a suggested 2 glasses of water during meals.

• It is the perfect time to check in with your campers… how was their morning? Did they enjoy their electives? What electives did they do? How are the campers interacting? Are they making friends? Is the cabin becoming cliquish? Is a camper becoming dominant? Is a camper quiet and not joining in the activities?

By paying attention, you will be able to see the natural interactions between campers and be proactive in working with your campers to ensure they have the best week of the year! This is called Active Supervision.

CLEANING THE TABLE

• Each dorm will have a cleaning cart wheeled out to their tables during the meal.

• This cart will contain:

• a bucket for waste (and a scraper)

• a bucket with hot soapy water and a couple of sponge,

• a bucket with sanitizer solution and scraper

• a bus tub

• Once the dorm has finished their meal, the campers will scrape excess food into the bucket and wipe down their part of the table using the hot soapy water.

• One counselor will then collect the plates, silverware and cups and place them in the bus tub.

• Once the table is clean, the campers and most of the counselors will return to their dorm.

• One counselor remains behind to sanitize the table and benches. Sweeps when necessary.

AFTER EACH SECOND MEAL SEATING

The dining hall tables and chairs are to be completely cleaned and sanitized.

The floor of the dining hall is to be swept.

The floor of the dining hall is to be mopped using HOT, soapy water.

The serving lines are to be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized using a chemical fogger. All cups, plates and utensils are to be cleaned, sanitized and air-dried per State Regulations.

SERVING RESPONSIBILITIES

All staff members (CIT’s, Junior Counselors, Counselors, Sr. Counselors and Directors) will be scheduled to line serve at both Riverside and Hilltop Camps.

• This requires you to get to the dining hall before the campers at breakfast, lunch and dinner.

• Please wash your hands after you put on your hairnet and before you put on your gloves.

• Do not scratch your nose or put your hands near your mouth or your hair after you have put on your gloves.

• Do not eat or drink while working on the line. This is a State Law.

• Do not slop the food onto the plates.

• Raise your hand and alert the dining hall in-charge if you are running low of the item you are serving.

• Do not enter the line before the food has been placed in the warmers.

• Do not leave until released by the Dining Hall In-Charge.

• Bring to the Dining Hall In-charge’s attention any camper that has no food on their plate.

• SMILE. Your attitude sets the tone for the meal.

PROFESSIONALISM

Please remember that you have an important role in camp. Our campers look up to you. If you complain, however mildly about the food this attitude will transfer to the campers. A simple comment can lead to negative comments regarding the food, variety and quality.

• After a while, you may get a little tired of the “same old food”. It is important to be positive in all aspects of camp. Making an average of 1,000 meals per day in a dining hall that is equipped for much less. The kitchen staff do an amazing job. The meals are typically served on a partial 2-week rotation. Any concerns or suggestions you may have about the food can be shared, in private, with the Camp Director and always out of earshot of the campers.

HERMANN SONS LIFE CAMP

IDENTIFYING AND UNDERSTANDING THE RISKS OF CHILD MALTREATMENT C506-0007

An educational session for Hermann Sons Life Camp Staff. Every two years our employees must receive training in the prevention and risks of child abuse/maltreatment. The following pages are the approved curriculum. There will be time during Staff Development set aside for this class.

DEVELOPED BY Buddy Preuss (2005)

UPDATED AND REVISED

Jennifer Cernosek, Executive Camp Director (2011) Katie Klohn, Executive Camp Director (2016) Ian Brassett, Executive Camp Director (2020)

REFERENCES

• U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families. (2018). Child Maltreatment 2018. Retrieved from https://www.acf.hhs.gov/cb/resource/childmaltreatment-2018

• Texas Department of State Health Services, Texas Youth Camps Safety and Health. (2016).

• Texas Administrative Code: Youth Camp Rules retrieved from http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/youthcamp/rules.shtm

• Children’s Advocacy Centers of Texas. Taken from https://www.cactx.org/child-abuse-in-texas

NATIONAL STATISTICS

The national rounded number of children in the United States who received a child protective services investigation response increased 8.4% from 2014 (3,261,000) to 2018 (3,534,000).

(Child Maltreatment 2018, letter summary).

This is 9.2 children per 1,000 or to put it in pure numbers, 678,000 VICTIMS. (Child Maltreatment 2018, Summary, Exhibit S-1 and Exhibit S-2)

The younger the children, the more vulnerable they are to maltreatment.

(Child Maltreatment 2018 Exhibit 3-D)

* Percentages do not =100 due to rounding.

• 26.7%* of victims are under the age of 1.

• 46.3%* of victims are aged 4 – 8.

• 44%* of victims are aged 9 – 14.

In 2018 38.1 of every 1,000 Texas children received an investigation or alternative response from Child Protective Services.

(Child Maltreatment 2018, p. 26, Table 3-1)

The number of children in Texas that received an investigation from 2014 – 2018 increased 11.4%.

(Child Maltreatment 2018, p. 25, Table 3-1)

WHO ABUSES AND NEGLECTS CHILDREN?

• 83.3% of perpetrators are between the ages of 18 and 44.

• 53.8% of perpetrators are female. 45.3% are male.

• 91.7% of perpetrators are a parent of their victim.

o 39.4% by the mother acting alone

o 21.5% by the father acting alone

(Child Maltreatment 2018 Summary)

WHAT IS CHILD MALTREATMENT?

Child maltreatment includes all types of abuse and neglect of a child under the age of 18 by a parent, caregiver, or another person in a custodial role.

(2014 Child Maltreatment Fact Sheet)

WHAT TYPES OF ADULTS ACT IN CUSTODIAL ROLES?

Teachers, Coaches, Ministers, Babysitters, etc. (Someone who is acting as a caregiver.) This includes camp staff.

The term "maltreatment” can be clearer than the term "abuse" because abuse can sound less inclusive. Maltreatment encompasses abuse.

TYPES OF MALTREATEMENT

Have staff identify the four types of child maltreatment. Define each then list examples on chart. Let staff make suggestions and complete list with information below.

The four major types of child maltreatment are:

• Physical abuse

• Emotional abuse

• Neglect

• Sexual abuse.

In 2018 data shows: 84.5% of victims suffer a single type of maltreatment. (Child Maltreatment 2018, Summary)

• 60.8% are neglected only. (47,592* in Texas in 2018)

• 10.7% are physically abused. (4,239* in Texas in 2018)

• 7.0% are sexually abused only. (5,339* in Texas in 2018)

• 15.5% are victims of two or more maltreatment types. (5,541* in Texas in 2018) (Child Maltreatment 2018*, p.40 Table 3-8)

PHYSICAL ABUSE

Physical abuse is any non-accidental physical injury to a child. Even if the parent or caretaker who inflicts the injury might not have intended to hurt the child, the injury is not considered an accident if the caretaker's actions were intentional. This injury may be the result of any assault on a child' s body, like:

• paddling, punching, slapping, or hitting

• pushing, shaking, or kicking

• pinching, choking, or grabbing with force

• inflicting pain with anything hot, sharp or otherwise ca using pain or discomfort

• severe physical punishment inappropriate to the child 's age.

Corporal (physical) punishment is distinguis hed from physical abuse in that physical punishment is the use of physica l force with the intent of infl icting bodily pain, but not injury, for the purpose of correction or control. Physical abuse is an injury that results from physical aggress ion.

Corporal punishment is against Hermann Sons Life Camp's rules.

EMOTIONAL ABUSE

Emotional abuse is any attitude, behavior, or failure to act on the part of the care giver that interfe res with a child ' s mental health or socia l development. Other names for emotional ab use are verbal abuse, mental abuse, and psychological maltreatment or abuse.

Emotional abuse can range from a simple verbal insult to an extreme form of punishment. The following are examples of emotional abuse:

• ignoring, withdrawal of attention, rejection

• lack of praise or positive reinforcement

• yelling or scr eaming

• threatening or frig htening

• negative comparisons to others

• belittling – telling a child he or she is " no good" or " worthless"

• using derogatory terms to describe the child, name-calling

• shaming or humiliating

• habitu al scapegoating or blaming

• Extreme forms of punis hment or terrorizing

• lack of physical affection on part of the parent

Emotional abuse is almost always present when another form of abuse is found. Emotional abuse can come from adults or from other children, such as bullies at school or camp.

NEGLECT

Neglect is a failure to provide for the child's basic needs.

The types of neglect are physical, educational, and emotional.

Physical neglect is not providing for a child's physical needs, including

• inadequate provision of food, housing, or clothing appropriate for weather

• lack of supervision

• expulsion from the home or refusal to allow a runaway to return home

• abandonment

• denial or delay of medical care

• inadequate hygiene provisions

Educational neglect is the failure to enroll a child of mandatory school age in school or to provide necessary special education. This includes allowing excessive truancies from school.

Emotional (psychological) neglect is a lack of emotional support and love, such as

• not attending to the child's needs, including need for affection

• failure to provide necessary psychological care

• domestic violence in the child's presence, such as spousal abuse

• drug or alcohol abuse in the presence of the child, or allowing the child to participate in drug or alcohol use

When authorities examine emotional neglect, they take into consideration cultural values and family income, which may affect the level of care.

Some overlap exists between definitions of emotional abuse and emotional neglect; regardless, they are both child abuse.

Neglect is the leading type of child maltreatment in Texas (Child Maltreatment 2018, Table 3-8).

SEXUAL ABUSE

Sexual abuse of a child is any sexual act between an adult and a child. This includes:

• fondling, touching, or kissing

• touching a child's genitals or making the child touch the adult's genitals

• penetration, intercourse, incest, rape, oral sex or sodomy

• exposing the child to adult sexuality in other forms (showing sex organs to a child, forced observation of sexual acts, showing pornographic material (like magazines) or enticing them to observe such materials, telling "dirty" stories)

• other privacy violations (forcing the child to undress, spying on a child in the bathroom or bedroom)

• sexual exploitation

• child prostitution

• using children in the production of pornography

The above acts are considered child abuse when they are committed by a relative or caretaker, such as a parent, babysitter, daycare provider, teacher, or youth camp staff member, whether inside the home or apart from the home. (If a stranger, neighbor, friend, or anyone outside the caretaker role commits the act, it is called sexual assault.)

The legal age of consent for two people to have sexual relations in Texas is 17.

Having sex with a person under the legal age of consent is against the law. Even if the two parties agree to the sexual relationship, it is still against the law.

Sexual abuse is especially complicated because of the power differential between the adult and the child, because of the negotiations that must occur between the adult and the child, and because the child has no way to assimilate the experience into a mature understanding of in timacy. Regardless of the child's behavior or reactions, it is the responsibility of the adult not to engage in sexual acts with children. Sexual abuse is never the child's fault.

RECOGNIZING CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT

The first step in helping abused or neglected children is learning to recognize the signs of child abuse and neglect. The presence of a single physical or behavioral sign does not prove child abuse is occurring; however, when these signs appear repeatedly or in combination you should take a closer look at the situation and consider the possibility of child abuse.

Help staff to understand children will come to camp that have been abused. Discuss signs and symptoms of the child, the parent, and interaction between the child and the parent.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS IN THE CHILD

Some signs of physical abuse

• Unexplained burns, cuts, bruises, bite marks or welts in the shape of an object • Anti-social or passive behavior • Fear of adults • Self-destructive or suicidal behavior • Depression or poor self-image • Overly compliant, passive or withdrawn • Problems in school, sudden changes • Drug or alcohol abuse

SOME SIGNS OF EMOTIONAL ABUSE

• Apathy • Depression • Hostility • Lack of concentration • Eating disorders

SOME SIGNS OF NEGLECT

Unsuitable clothing for weather • Lack of hygiene, not bathed, dirty clothes • Extreme hunger • Apparent lack of supervision

SOME SIGNS OF SEXUAL ABUSE

•

Inappropriate interest or knowledge of sexual acts • Seductiveness • Avoidance of things related to sexuality, or rejection of own genitals or bodies • Nightmares and bed wetting • Drastic changes in appetite • Over compliance or excessive aggression • Fear of a particular person or family member • Withdrawal, secretiveness, or depression • Suicidal behavior • Eating disorders • Self-injury

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS IN THE PARENT

• Shows little concern for the child

• Denies the existence of or blames the child for problems in school or at home

• Asks teachers or other caretakers to use harsh physical discipline if the child misbehaves

• Sees the child as entirely bad, worthless, or burdensome

• Demands a level of physical or academic performance the child cannot achieve

• Looks primarily to the child for care, attention, and satisfaction of emotional needs

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF THE PARENT AND CHILD

• Rarely touch or look at each other

• Consider their relationship entirely negative

• State that they do not like each other

THE CONTRIBUTING FACTORS OF CHILD ABUSE

Why would someone deliberately hurt a child? What kind of person abuses a child? Not all abuse is deliberate or intended. Several factors in a person's life may combine to move them toward abusing a child:

• general stress

• the stress of having children in the family when one didn't have children before

• dealing with a child that has a disability or difficult behaviors

• the stress for caring for someone besides oneself

• a personal history of being abused (childhood trauma)

• alcohol or drug use

• marital conflict

• unemployment

No one has been able to predict which of these factors will cause someone to abuse a child. A significant factor is that abuse tends to be intergenerational - those who were abused as children are more likely to repeat the act when they become parents or caretakers.

In addition, many forms of abuse arise from ignorance, isolation, or benign neglect. Sometimes a cultural tradition leads to abuse, for example:

• children are property

• parents (especially males) have the right to control their children in any way they wish

• children need to be toughened up to face the hardships of life

THE RESULTS OF CHILD ABUSE

Child abuse can have the following dire consequences:

• The child may become someone who lies, resents, fears, and retaliates rather than loves, trusts, and listens.

• The child may become reclusive and alienated

• The child may have difficulty establishing intimate relationships as an adult

• The child will have low self-esteem and is likely to engage in self-destructive behaviors

• The child's psychological development and social behavior will be impaired

• The child may develop high levels of anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and medical illness

• The child will be more likely to abuse as adults

The results of being abused as a child vary according to the severity of the abuse and the surrounding environment of the child.

CHARACTERISTICS AND BEHAVIORAL INDICATORS OF ADULTS WHO MOLEST CHILDREN

When people imagine a child molester, they picture some ugly old man in a trench coat coaxing children to come to him in exchange for some candy. They don't picture Uncle Joe or Aunt Sue, the neighbor next door, the friendly parishioner, another family member, or a camp counselor.

Child molesters come from all walks of life and all socioeconomic groups.They can be male or female, rich or poor, employed or unemployed, religious or non-religious, or from any race.

Repeat abusers are especially good at "grooming" the people around them.

Let’s look again at who abuses and neglects children (Child Maltreatment 2018 Summary)

• 83.3% of perpetrators are between the ages of 18 and 44.

• 53.8% of perpetrators are female. 45.3% are male.

• 91.7% of perpetrators are a parent of their victim.

o 39.4% by the mother acting alone

o 21.5% by the father acting alone

Adults who molest children can generally be divided into two groups, according to their behaviors. A small percentage may suffer from lifelong exclusive attraction to children and have little or no emotional interest in adult partners. The majority is not exclusively attracted to children, have adult emotional relationships, and have not molested multiple child victims.It is a widespread misconception that child molestation consists mainly of children being seized off the street and being forcibly molested. Although these incidents do occur, the vast majority of child molesters are adults who seduce children through subtle intimidation and persuasion and are known to the child.

Persons who molest children may seek employment opportunities with programs involving children. Persons who molest children:

• Are aware, in most cases, of their preference for children before they reach age

18. Most offenders are males, but some women also molest children.

• Are usually married. A small number never marry and maintain a lifelong sexual and emotional interest in children.

• May relate better to children than adults and may feel more comfortable with children and their interests.

• May have few close adult friends.

• Usually prefer children in a specific age group.

• Usually prefer one gender over the other; however, some are bisexual in their preferences.

• May seek employment or volunteer opportunities with programs involving children.

• May feel emotionally attached to children to the extent that emotional needs are met by engaging in relationships with children.

• Often photographs or collects photographs of their victims, dressed, nude, or involved in sexual acts.

• May collect child erotica and child-adult pornography which may be used in the following ways

o To lower the inhibitions of the victims

o To fantasize when no potential victim is available

o To relive past sexual activities

o To justify their inappropriate sexual activities

o To blackmail victims to keep them from telling

• May possess alcohol or drugs and furnish them to their victims to lower inhibitions.

• Talk to children in ways that equalize their relationship.

• May talk about children in the same manner as one would talk about an adult lover or partner.

• May seek out organizations and publications that support his sexual beliefs and practices.

• May offer to baby-sit or take children on trips in order to manipulate situations to sleep with or near children or bathe or dress them.

• May be seen at places frequented by children.

(Caution: Some people who have molested or plan to molest a child exhibit no observable behavior patterns.)

Sexual molesters can entice children under the guise of sex education, by using threats, and through the misuse of power.

More Characteristics of Perpetrators (from Child Maltreatment 2018):

• Most children are maltreated by their parents rather than relatives or caregivers

• Perpetrators are typically less than 44 years of age

• Female perpetrators are greater than males in number Molestation is usually secretive and is sometime accomplished through misuse of power, mental duress and threats, or under the guise of sex education. Through intimidation, the child is made to feel responsible for the molestation and for keeping the acts secret.

Help staff to understand molesters could be among us at camp. It is our job to help everyone follow the rules that have been established to protect the campers.

REPORTING ALLEGED ABUSE, NEGLECT OR EXPLOITATION AT TEXAS YOUTH CAMPS

What is to be done if a person suspects child abuse?

If a person, including any member of camp staff, a camp counselor, or camp director has cause to believe that a minor has been or may have been abused or neglected at a youth camp, then that person shall immediately make a report to one of the following agencies.

Who exactly is a "proper authority"?

• Any local or state law enforcement agency.

• The Department of Family Protective Services Abuse Hotline, at 800-252-5400 or through the secure website at http://www.txabusehotline.org/

It is MANDATED that persons making a report to the agencies listed above, must also notify:

• Department of State Health Services Policy, Standards and Quality Assurance Unit by Phone at 512-8346788 by Fax at 512-834-6707 or by email at PHSCPS@dshs.texas.gov

ANY

ABUSE THAT OCCURRED AT

HOME

OR

OTHER LOCATION, NOT ON CAMP PREMISES, SHOULD BE REPORTED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF FAMILY PROTECTIVE SERVICES, CALL THE 24-HOUR, TOLLFREE ABUSE HOTLINE AT 1-800-252-5400.

Are the camp administrators a "proper authority"?

No. Camp policy states that a staff member should report suspected child abuse to the camp director at which time the staff member and camp director together will contact the proper authority. Ultimately though, the State of Texas recognizes it as the responsibility of the individual.

What if a person is not sure that abuse is or may be occurring?

The child abuse reporting law requires you make a report if you have any reason to believe that abuse might have occurred. Therefore, you must make a report even if you have no way of confirming your suspicions. You can talk with a member of the Director's Staff at camp or a trained professional at the Child Abuse Hotline at 800-252-5400 if you observe behavior in a child that gives you cause for concern but would like more information about whether the behavior is indicative of abuse or neglect.

What if a person's suspicions are wrong?

You are immune from civil or criminal liability for any report of child abuse as long as the report is made in good faith. A person who reports his or her own conduct, or who acts in bad faith or with malice in reporting alleged abuse, is not immune from civil or criminal liability. Any person who knowingly or intentionally makes a false report commits a class-A misdemeanor that is punishable by a fine up to $4,000 and/or imprisonment up to one year.

Is the report confidential?

A report of suspected child abuse or neglect is confidential and is not subject to public release under the Open Records Act. The identity of the person making the report as well as information contained in the report may be disclosed only for purposes consistent with the investigation of the alleged child abuse and in accordance with the requirements of the Family Code.

What happens if child abuse is suspected but not reported?

Failure to make a required child abuse report may be subject to criminal prosecution or civil liability. This is a class-B misdemeanor punishable by a fine up to $2,000 and or imprisonment for up to 180 days.

What do you do at Camp that helps with the problem of child maltreatment.

PREVENTION AT CAMP

As we have mentioned before, adults may seek out employment at summer camps. We must constantly be vigilant for situations where the rules laid out for the safety of the campers are broken. It is, however, not just CAMPER-COUNSELOR issues that we, as a camp must be concerned about.

As an overnight camp, where campers and staff live together, we must be constantly vigilant that campercamper issues do not arise while the campers are in our care. Consensual and Non-Consensual sexual activity between campers, either same-gender or with members of the opposite gender must be prevented. Providing a safe environment is our number one priority. How do we do this?

MANY of the rules, regulations and policies we have laid out in our Staff Agreement, Job Descriptions, PreOrientation Welcome Booklet, Guide to Camp Counseling, Activity Lesson Plans and the Staff Manual, are all designed to create a safe, structured and caring environment for our campers and staff. Our policies and procedures discussed and covered during staff development from setting the tone with our campers on arrival day through dorm meetings and the establishment of rules, sessions on Well-camp policies (dining, sunscreen, rest, hydration), bullying, homesickness, activity lesson plans, transportation policies, clinic rules and regulations, etc. are important and all lead to Hermann Sons Life Camp preventing unwanted situations allowing our campers to thrive and grow in a safe environment. Three key elements to providing a safe environment are:

1. ACTIVE SUPERVISION

2. RULE OF TWO 3. CONSTANT VIGILANCE

ACTIVE SUPERVISION

The Dorms provide an incredible opportunity for you to “hang-out” with your campers. Get to know them. Ask questions. Be interested in them and their experience at camp. If you are not, scheduled “Time-Off” then you are working. This is not time to be sleeping, wearing your i-pod or zoning out – you are to be actively supervising the campers in your care. Walk through the dorm. Listen to the campers’ conversations. Observe body language and cliques. Rest period, shower time, clean for Ice cream (unstructured cabin time), statistically in camping is the most dangerous time on camp. Campers many years from now will remember the counselors with great affection that braided their hair, or simply sat next to them and talked with them. This is where the counselor’s true value and greatest impact on the life of a child happens.

© Hermann Sons Life Camp 2023

• Active supervision prevents bullying.

• Active Supervision prevents homesickness.

• Active Supervision provides campers a safe environment.

RULE OF THREE

Counselors (and staff) should never be alone with a camper. This protects the child and you. Using the same rationale it is also important that two campers should never be left alone. When sending campers to the restroom or the clinic, always send three campers. And mix them up.

CONSTANT VIGILANCE / STAFF SUPPORT

It is not enough to know the rules and regulations in place. We must remain vigilant to the application of the policies and procedures. It is rare that we will catch a predator “red handed .” It is much more likely that we will observe a staff member breaking the rules, being alone in a dorm, hanging out with the same campers, not taking their time-off in order to stay with the campers. While HSLC hires senior counselors, activity specialists, program assistants, directors and assistant directors – it takes everyone to create a safe environment. We must all be watchful. Help staff members to make the right decisions. Lack of action could be interpreted as concurrence or acceptance. If you witness a staff member being abusive toward a child and do nothing, then you are condoning/supporting their actions. Use the chain-of-command or go directly to the Executive Camp Director or Camp Director.

THE CAMPER-COUNSELOR RELATIONSHIP

Many campers will report child abuse to counselors or other staff because of the respect and trust that is developed at camp.

If a child chooses you as a confidante, it is important that you listen. Elicit as much information without leading the child.

If you are the first person the child has told about sexual abuse, your testimony could become very important in possible future legal proceedings. The first person a child tells about sexual abuse is called an "outcry witness," and all information given to you by the child is admissible evidence.

Many children report abuse with the expectation the information will remain in confidence. Counselors or other staff may be worried about betraying the camper's trust when making a report. In such cases, explain to the camper that it is best for them if this is reported.

CAMP CAN BE PART OF THE SOLUTION

CAMP BUILDS SELF-ESTEEM

Children who have low self-esteem cannot protect themselves.

CAMP TEACHES DECISION-MAKING

Children who can make decisions trust their own feeling and say no when something feels wrong.

CAMP IS A SUPPORT SYSTEM

Children need positive adult role models and need to know where they can go for help.

CAMP LISTENS TO CHILDREN

Believe what they are telling you and listen carefully.

HERMANN SONS LIFE CAMP ADMINISTRATIVE POLICIES

STAFF AGREEMENT

Each staff member will receive an Employment Agreement detailing the terms of his/her employment, job title and description, employment dates, salary and other benefits.

When the Voluntary Disclosure Statement, is signed and returned, it represents your intention to join our Camp team and complete the term of employment stated in the Employment Agreement. It also is your commitment to be a responsible staff member, always striving to maintain the high standards required of staff members as addressed in this manual and precamp staff development.

Camp does not offer an employment contract. Camp employment is “at will” and can be terminated by Camp at any time, with or without cause, for any lawful reason. No information in the staff manual or any accompanying documents should be misinterpreted as creating some type of binding employment. These documents are merely general guidelines regarding policies, procedures, benefits, and an anticipated employment schedule. (AD.29.1E)

Staff Members will be required to be flexible with their employment responsibilities. This may include (but is not an inclusive list); switching their activities as needed, based upon the number of enrollments. All Staff Members may be required to supervise a cabin group, participate in all activities with enthusiasm, assist with the set- up and break - down of all events, keep all camp areas clean, neat and organized and lead assigned camp programs as directed by the Camp Director with a continuous positive attitude.

It is extremely important to realize that we’re operating a summer program for children and that certain behavior, dress, and attitudes acceptable in a college/adult setting would not be appropriate with a group of 9-14-year-olds present. It is important that Hermann Sons Life Camp Staff Members are role models to our campers. If for any reason during the camp season the services of the Staff Member prove unsatisfactory or said Staff Member maintains an unacceptable appearance or the Staff Member engages in activities unbecoming a Camp Staff Member, it is hereby mutually agreed that the Camp Director’s discretion concerning termination is final and termination of this agreement is effective by notice to employee. Any abusive or other inappropriate behavior such as sexual, child, mental, physical or any other form of abuse or harassment will result in immediate termination and legal action. You are required to make a written report of any such action you observe to the Camp Director or the Executive Director In the event of dismissal prior to the anticipated end of employment, the salary will be prorated to the date of dismissal and reflect any appropriate deductions. (AD.29.1E)

Hermann Sons Life Camp provides equal opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or veteran status. (AD.29.1A)

PAY SCHEDULE – See Payroll Calendar

Employees will receive a paycheck most Saturdays. This check is compensation for satisfactory performance and the net amount will equal the sum stated in the Employment Agreement minus taxes or other deductions. Compensation will generally be on a week-delay system. On-site employees also will receive lodging, meals, and use of facilities during the term of employment.

Much time, effort, and money is invested in hiring and training staff. These costs are justified only upon the completion of the staff member’s summer agreement. Attendance for special training or certification courses is strictly as a volunteer

SICK AND PERSONAL LEAVE

(AD 29.1c)

Requests for personal time off will be handled on an individual basis. Requests should be submitted to the Camp Director. Any time not spent performing regular or reassigned duties will be deducted from your weekly compensation.

ILLNESS, INJURY AND INSURANCE

All paid employees are covered under Camp’s Worker’s Compensation policy for accidents that occur in the performance of their duties. Please report all accidents to your supervising director IMMEDIATELY. Any accident which occurs during free time or during any activity outside one’s regular duties or any illness considered an ordinary disease of life is the responsibility of the employee and is not covered by Camp insurance.

HEALTH HISTORY

It is required that all employees update their health history on the form provided by Camp within six months of their start date. Camp does not require a physical exam.

EMPLOYMENT HOURS AND TIME OFF

(AD.30)

Staff members are required to be on Camp and always performing assigned duties except during scheduled off time.

• Off-site staff members are employed for a 32 to 40-hour work week. When the day’s work is completed, off-site staff must leave the facility.

• On-Site staff members are employed for a 16-hour day, six-day work week. On-site staff members are provided with housing, meals, and access to facilities. Some on-site staff members may work a modified shift.

On site staff members may not leave Camp at any time between 11:00 a.m. on Sunday and 1:00 p.m. on Saturday without permission from their immediate supervising director. If you plan to be on Camp during the weekend, please inform the senior staff member in charge so provisions can be made for your safety.

Counselors and other on-site staff members will receive one evening off each week from 6:15 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. when they may leave Camp. Staff members must sign out and check back in with the Camp Director or Assistant Camp Director.

All 17-year-old staff members must have a permission slip (for minor on-site staff members) on file.

All staff members will receive additional breaks during rest periods or after lights out that must be spent at Camp. Persons reporting to Camp late from time off or missing curfew will be subject to disciplinary action.

TIME-OFF CALENDAR (AD.30)

2023 STAFF TIME OFF SCHEDULE

One Two Three Four FIVE

SUNDAY

ALL STAFF

ARE ON

DUTY BEGINNING AT 12:00PM

MONDAY OFF-OFF Rest Period Lights-Out Rest Period Lights-Out

TUESDAY Lights-Out OFF-OFF Rest Period Lights-Out Rest Period

WEDNESDAY Rest Period Lights-Out OFF-OFF Rest Period Lights-Out

THURSDAY Lights-Out Rest Period Lights-Out OFF-OFF Rest Period

FRIDAY Rest Period Lights-Out Rest Period Lights-Out OFF-OFF*

SATURDAY ALL STAFF RELEASED NO LATER THAN 1:00PM

Counselors are divided into a possible five duty groups. Any requests must be made before Friday of the preceding week. Once the schedule has been established, only the Camp Director can change the schedule.

OFF-OFF 5:30PM - 12:30AM

Sat - Sun 23 hours

Rest-Period 1 hour 15 minutes

Lights-Out 2 hours

FRIDAY OFF-OFF 7:00PM - 12:30AM

Staff preferences are taken into account when the schedules are prepared, however the needs of the campers (and camp) are paramount when scheduling time-off. For example, we do not need lifeguards oncamp to operate the Dance and Game Night. We will need lifeguards to operate brown-bag activities and so on.

In 2021, we added WIFI to the Hilltop dining hall. We will also be converting the Private Dining on Hilltop for use as a staff lounge for both Riverside and Hilltop staff during the Lights-Off and Off-Off evening times as well as weekends. This lounge will be considered a quiet lounge where staff can utilize the WIFI for online classes and study. It is also conveniently located near the staff laundry room.

LEAVING CAMPGROUNDS

During the following two time-off periods, counselors are permitted to leave campgrounds after signing out at the camp office.

• Each group has one night-off each week. (Called an off-off).

o Time-off begins after your campers have entered the dining hall for dinner.

o Counselors must sign-in by 12:30 a.m.

• On the weekend, counselors are typically released before noon on Saturday and expected to return at 11:30 a.m. on Sunday morning.

STAFF SWIMMING

(PA.10.1)

Camp Policy dictates that certified lifeguards must be present when the pools are in use. The lifeguards must be positioned in locations where they can provide effective surveillance and in close enough proximity to participants to readily respond and execute rescue in case of an incident or emergency. The lifeguard to swimmer must be 1:25 with a minimum of one lifeguard and one adult out of the water and present at all times.

PERFORMANCE COACHING & APPRAISALS

(AD.29.1D)(ST.27.1)

Senior Staff will use performance coaching as a communication tool to evaluate performance and takes place constantly. Performance coaching will:

• Strengthen the supervisor/staff relationship

• Recognize and reward a staff member’s strengths

• Re-emphasize work standards and requirements

• Recognize and reward satisfactory performance

• Recognize and correct deficiencies

A written reprimand may be given for serious infractions or minor infractions that are not corrected after verbal reminders.

Staff members will receive an appraisal by the Camp Director or his or her immediate supervisor near the end of their final session during the exit interview.

EXIT INTERVIEWS

Evaluation is not a one-way street. Hermann Sons Life Camp is determined to improve the quality of the camper and staff member’s summer camp experience. All staff will receive an exit interview with their Camp Director.

One week prior to their departure, staff members will receive a Staff Questionnaire. We ask that the staff member help us improve the quality of the camp experience by providing honest and constructive feedback on the camp, our policies and procedures, their supervisors and, where possible provide suggestions on how the camp can improve. Your feedback will be welcomed and valued.

STAFF EVALUATION FORM

STAFF MEMBER’S NAME: Session

This form is to be completed for each counselor/instructor by the Senior Counselors and other supervising staff members. All items are weighted differently. This form is kept as a permanent record and placed in the staff member’s file. There must be ONE evaluation completed before the end of the 2nd week. THERE MUST BE A FINAL EVALUATION TURNED IN BY THE END OF CAMP.

ACTIVITY OBSERVATION FORM

It is expected that all staff members are observed at a specialized activity site at least Once during the first two weeks of camp.

A second activity observation form should be done by week 5.. All forms are to be given to the Camp Director at the end of each day.

Staff Member

Elective: P1 P2 P3 P4 P5 P6

Activity Observed Supervisor Task

Enforce established safety regulations,

Provide appropriate instruction to participants,

Identify and manage environmental and other hazards related to the activity.

Apply appropriate emergency procedures related to the activity and the participants?

Did the staff member provide the campers with a safety orientation before the activity began?

Is the staff member actively supervising the campers?

Are the campers engaged in the activity?

Are the campers having fun at the activity site?

How do you rate the staff member’s performance?

Exceeds Expectations Meets Expectations Needs Improvement Not Applicable

Comments:_________________________________________________________________

Has the form been reviewed with the staff member? YES NO

Any Staff receiving a NEEDS IMPROVEMENT must have the issue discussed and the form initialed in the comments section.

Staff Member’s Signature Date Supervisor

This form has been developed with the kind assistance from

STAFF AND CAMPER CONTACT & RELATIONS

Physical abuse (including but not limited to striking, spanking, slapping, shaking, unreasonable force) and sexual abuse (including but not limited to sexual contact, inappropriate touching, exposing yourself to children or viewing children for sexual gratification, or language or comments of an extreme sexual nature) will not be tolerated and will result in immediate dismissal. Emotional abuse (including but not limited to demeaning actions, inappropriate comments, language or vocal tone, physically strenuous or inappropriate discipline, or any behavior which is disrespectful or humiliating to the child) can lower a child’s self-esteem, is not acceptable behavior for staff members, and will result in disciplinary action that may include dismissal.

It is not only the staff member’s duty to avoid abusive actions but also not to tolerate such behavior from other staff members, campers or guests.

Texas law requires that all citizens report any suspected abuse or neglect of a child to the Texas Department of Protective and Regulatory Services or a law enforcement agency. Therefore, Camp staff should immediately report any suspected abuse or neglect to the Camp Director or Executive Camp Director for action.

Avoid situations of isolation with campers and the potential for unwarranted accusations. No staff member should ever be alone with a camper where others cannot see.

Relationships between campers and staff should be conducted with respect to the nature of our business and the high standards of Camp. Socialization or other contact with campers outside of Camp (other than postcards) is not allowed. Do not share your phone number with campers. The only type of relationship that is permitted between a staff member and a camper (or past camper under the age of 18) is a Camp leadership relationship.

INTERNET POLICY

Socializing with campers on the Internet is not permitted. Doing so could result in disciplinary action. This means do not share your personal email address or screen name with campers or past campers. Do not permit campers or past campers to have access to your pages or photos on any social networking site. This includes individuals in the Counselor-in-Training program. No staff member or past staff member may use the Camp’s name or logos to create any Internet site. In addition, do not use any reference to Camp or pictures taken at Camp in a way that may negatively affect the high standards of Camp or which may appear with or be linked to other language or pictures that do not reflect the high standards of Camp. Never post photos of campers on the Internet.

Please remember the Internet is public space. Your behavior online is, ultimately, not private. Let this guide you to make good decisions for Camp and our campers.

ALCOHOL AND ILLEGAL DRUGS

(AD.16.1A)

All staff members are expected to abide by state and national laws governing the possession and use of alcohol and illegal drugs throughout the term of their employment. Any violation of these rules could result in disciplinary action that may include termination of employment. Illegal behavior during the rest of the year can also impact future employment.

Alcohol and illegal drugs may not be brought on camp property. Any violation of this rule will result in immediate termination of employment.

Staff members who are 21 years of age or older may only consume alcohol in moderation during their off-offs. Because of their camp responsibilities, it is imperative that staff members remain sober in performance of their duties.

Staff members may be required to pass drug tests as a condition of employment.

In the event a camper is found to be in possession of alcohol or illegal drugs, under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs, or to have used alcohol or illegal drugs on camp, notify the Camp Director or Assistant Camp Director immediately so the appropriate action can be taken.

TOBACCO

Camp is a tobacco-free environment. Tobacco products, including e-cigarettes and vapes, are not to be brought to camp.

SOCIALLY SENSITIVE ISSUES

(ST.31.1)

Staff members will not discuss socially sensitive issues (which may include drugs, body piercing and art, sexuality, religion, politics, or the personal lives of staff ) in areas where campers may overhear it or in staff groups where such discussion might prove inflammatory. Do not permit discussion among campers that is inappropriate or may become disruptive to camp. If a camper has a question of a socially sensitive nature, listen and then seek help from a senior staff member.

CAMP RELATIONSHIPS

Camp discourages any relationship between staff that distracts and interferes with duties and responsibilities. All personal relationships should be conducted with respect to the nature of our business and the high standards of camp. Sexual contact between staff members while on camp property, even during time off away from campers, is considered inappropriate conduct and will result in disciplinary action that may include dismissal. Campers should never be aware of any romantic relationships among staff members.

CONDUCT UNBECOMING A STAFF MEMBER

(AD.29.1E)

Insubordination, gross misconduct, fighting, neglect or absence from assigned responsibilities, inappropriate language or actions, damage or unauthorized use of camp facilities or property, theft, bullying, and violation of the law or camp rules will result in disciplinary action that may include termination. In addition, a staff member’s actions toward other staff members should always be professional.

As a Hermann Sons Life Camp staff member, you represent camp before, during and after the season. How you behave is a reflection on both you and camp, especially when you are at camp, wearing camp gear outside of camp, gathered with camp friends or talking about camp online.

SEXUAL HARASSMENT

(AD.29.1 F)

Sexual harassment is unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual behaviors, slurs, jokes and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. It becomes unlawful when:

• Submission to such conduct is explicitly or implicitly a condition of an individual’s employment; or

• Submission to or rejection of such conduct affects the employee’s job; or

• Such conduct has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with an individual’s job performance, off-time relaxation, or creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work environment.

Hermann Sons Life Camp makes every effort to keep the workplace free from the threat of sexual harassment. If you feel you have been sexually harassed or have been subjected to an environment of an unwelcome sexual nature report it immediately to the Executive Camp Director, Camp Director, or any staff member who can assist you in making the report. All reports will be investigated promptly.

STANDARDS OF DRESS

Staff appearance effects camper perceptions, parent impressions and camp’s image.

• A staff member’s appearance should be neat and properly groomed at all times and may not change significantly during a session.

• Camp shirts may not be altered in any way. Please select an appropriately sized shirt.

• Hair must be neat and clean and worn in a style conducive to Camp’s image. Men’s facial hair must be kept neat and trimmed.

• Clothing worn by staff must be tasteful and reflect the positive image of Camp. Clothing which contains logos or inferences about alcohol, drugs or messages of a violent or sexual nature is not allowed.

• Swimsuits may only be worn at water activities. Swimsuits may be stylish but not extreme.

• All staff must wear shoes outdoors.

• Other than earrings, no jewelry requiring body piercing will be visible at any time on Camp property. Decisions concerning the number and style of ear piercings and adornment shall be at the discretion of the Camp Director.

• Tattoos deemed inappropriate or distracting will be kept covered at all times. Your supervising director may require additional job-specific policies. All decisions concerning appropriate standards of dress are at the discretion of the Executive Camp Director.

MEDICATIONS AND CLINIC VISITS

All on-site staff medication, including prescription and over the counter drugs, must be turned in to the Health Manager and stored in the clinic. Staff may administer their own medication, but only with permission from the Health Manager and only at prescribed times. Staff under the age of 18 must have their medication administered by the Health Manager. A sign-in log is kept in the clinic for staff visits. Report all injuries and illnesses to your supervising director. Camp will not be held responsible for any injuries that are not reported appropriately. All medication brought to camp by off-site staff must be in its original container and stored away from campers.

VISITATION AND GUESTS

In 2023, NO NON-STAFF members are permitted on campgrounds. If you are being dropped off or picked-up for the weekend, please have your ride wait in their car. Thank you for your understanding. No terminated or former staff members may visit camp without advance permission from the Executive Camp Director.

Staff from one site may visit staff on the other site on weekends but must be off site by 12 a.m. Staff may not visit the other site during the week while camp is in session. Staff may pick up other staff members for off-off but must meet in the office. Staff should never travel the back road between sites without permission from the Camp Director.

STAFF’S CHILDREN ON CAMP

Children of off-site staff are not allowed at Camp.

Children of on-site staff –

• Ages 0-6 - Not allowed at Camp.

(Children of Director’s staff may be permitted to stay with additional supervision)

• 7 year-olds - Participate in Camp program.

(Do not live in dorms and have defined schedule) Register with Executive Camp Director. 2 weeks maximum (one each half)

• 8-14 year-olds Participate in Camp program.

(Live in dorms and have defined schedule)

If eligible for attendance must register for first week through Home Office and additional weeks with Executive Camp Director.

• 15 & older - Camp volunteer work with special permission from Executive Director and if at Camp for more than two weeks.

Please notify the Executive Director of any children visiting Camp.

VEHICULAR TRAFFIC ON CAMP

(AD.16.1c)

Rules governing vehicular traffic on Camp are developed for the safety of the campers and others on camp. These guidelines for traffic control must be followed.

• Vehicle speeds on Camp should never exceed 10 mph.

• A staff member must possess a valid driver’s license and current auto liability insurance to drive on Camp property.

• Staff will be given a designated parking area for their vehicles. These vehicles may be used only during time off.

• Staff should not use the service road between sites unless for Camp business. The speed limit for this road is 15 mph. Staff may not use their vehicles to drive to the spot.

• Campers may not be transported by staff (even in their personal vehicles) without permission from the Camp Director.

• No one shall be transported in the back of a pickup on any public road (except for maintenance workers on our private roads).

• Camp owned vehicles, including the tractor, should not be driven without permission from the Camp Director.

• Be careful pulling out of the Riverside maintenance gate. Limited visibility makes it very dangerous.

• Delivery trucks, parents, and visitors are not exempt from the rules governing vehicle speed. Letters are sent to the different companies explaining our rules. Notify the office of violators.

Do not attempt to cross any bridge or other area where water is over the road. Use alternate highwater routes when necessary.

PERSONAL POSSESSIONS

(AD.16.1B) (AD.16.1D)

Cell phones may be used only during scheduled off time and only in designated areas. Small personal handheld music systems are permitted but must be used according to camp policy. Televisions, portable DVD players and computers* are not permitted. Music, clothing, video, reading or other materials that are sexually explicit, profane or deemed inappropriate for the camp environment will not be permitted at camp. Personal vehicles must be parked in assigned areas. The vehicle and its contents are subject to all rules and policies of camp. Pets are not permitted at camp. Camp assumes no responsibility for personal property lost, stolen or destroyed.

* Computers may be used in the Staff Lounges Only.

* Smart watches may be worn by staff unless they become a distraction for the staff member. Staff members utilizing their smart phones during work hours will be asked to remove it.

SPOT RULES

A site for staff from each camp to gather is located between Riverside and Hilltop. Only on-site staff may use the Spot. Off-site staff, CITs and visitors are not allowed. The following Spot rules must be followed at all times.

• Spot usage times are Monday through Thursday –After lunch – back on camp by 2:30 p.m. 10 p.m. – back on camp by 12:15 a.m.

• Sign out on the clipboard/white board on your site

• Stay in the designated area, stay out of the barn

• Walk only – do not drive to the Spot

• Please stay quiet – the Spot is very close to the Retirement Home

• Fires only with permission from the Executive Director and only in designated areas

• Keep the area neat and clean

QUIET LOUNGE

Several staff members will be taking online classes this summer. To accommodate these staff members, we have added WIFI to the Hilltop Dining Hall. The Private Dining room has been converted into a quiet, staff lounge available to Riverside and Hilltop staff. Gaming and streaming movies is prohibited.

Riverside staff can use the staff laundry and Private Dining Quiet Lounge on their off-offs and on the weekend. Curfew rules apply. Cars may return to Riverside past the home and into the Staff parking lot (5 mph). Cars are not permitted to drive through camp while campers are active. Cars are not permitted to park at the spot.

LOUNGE RULES

A lounge is provided on each Camp for off time use of on-site staff. The lounge has a refrigerator, microwave, TV, and a DVD player. Please always keep the lounge neat and clean. No R-rated movies are permitted before 10:00 p.m. and then only for staff 17 or older. CITs do not have lounge privileges unless with their CIT counselors.

CURFEW

All on-site staff must be in their own dorm and in their own bed no later than 12:30 a.m. unless otherwise indicated by the Camp Director. Off-site staff must leave Camp immediately after their shift

PRANKS

Pranks are not permitted at Hermann Sons Life Camp. It is important to realize we are role models for the campers and Junior Staff members. When we discuss table manners, take what you want, eat what you take, instruct campers not to play with food, it is then hypocritical for us as a staff to punch sandwiches. While there has been a general rule regarding pranks between staff members being permitted, that is no longer the case Staff members are not permitted to play practical jokes on other staff members while working. This includes sandwich punching.

PHONE

All Camp phones are for Camp business only. Personal cell phones must be kept out of the sight of campers and may only be used during scheduled off time and only in designated calling areas. Music should not be played at activities from a cell phone.

GIFTS

No employee will accept money or expensive gifts from campers or their parents. If you receive a gift notify the Camp Director. No employee shall sell or trade with campers.

SNACKS

Staff should not eat or drink snacks in front of campers that are not available to campers through the Camp program. Save them for your time off.

WEAPONS AND EXPLOSIVES

(AD.16.1)

The possession of guns, knives, or other weapons on Camp property is prohibited. OLS and craft knives may be permitted at the discretion of the Camp Director. Explosives are prohibited. Use of fireworks is permitted only under consent of the Camp Director. Model rocket engines should be used only under strict activity guidelines and supervision of the craft specialist.

RESTRICTED AREAS

The following areas are off limits at night or during non-program times –

• Administrative offices

• Canteen

• Private residences or quarters (except by invitation)

• Kitchen

• Any place outside the immediate Camp area, excluding the Spot (for example, the other site, the river, barn, OLS site, road to other site, etc.)

VENDOR PROCEDURES FOR DELIVERIES AND SUPPLIES

Food vendors will be instructed to deliver all food service supplies to the back deck of the kitchens.

• Our kitchen staff will bring the food into the dining hall while ensuring that they are socially distanced from the delivery staff.

• Kitchen staff must use mask and gloves while accepting the deliveries.

• The kitchen staff must remove and discard these gloves and masks, wash their hands and replace with a new mask and gloves before resuming food preparation work.

• The delivery staff will not be permitted to enter the kitchens.

MAY 2023 – AUGUST 2023 PAYROLL CALENDAR

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WED THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

21 MAY Pre-Camp 22 23 24 OVERSEAS STAFF BEGIN ARRIVING

29 Turn in Payroll for PC

25 26 27 Turn in PreCamp Payroll 28 Skill Development Week & PreCamp OVERSEAS STAFF DAY #1

31 1 2 3 Paid for PreCamp A 4 Staff Development

30 SOCIAL SECURITY TRIP FOR OVERSEAS STAFF #1

5 Turn in Pre-Camp B Payroll Skill Devel. Week

13 14 15 16 17 Paid for Staff Development 18 Week #2 19 Turn in Payroll for #1

7 8 9 10 OPEN HOUSE Paid for PreCamp B & Skill Devel. Week 11 Week #1 12 Turn in payroll for Staff Development

6 SOCIAL SECURITY TRIP FOR OVERSEAS STAFF #2

20 21 22 23 24 Paid for Week #1 25 Week #3 26 Turn in Payroll for week #2

27 28 29 30 1 Paid for Week #2 2 Mini-Camp / Grief Support Camp

3 Grief Session Turn in Payroll for #3

4 5 BEGIN Mini-Camp & Grief Support

6 7 8 END Mini-Camp Grief Support 9 Week #4 10 Turn in Payroll for #GW & MC

11 12 13 14 15 Paid for Week GW & MC 16 Week #5 17 Turn in Payroll for #4

18 19 20 21 22 Paid for Week #4 23 Week #6

24 Turn in Payroll #5

25 26 27 28 29 Paid for Week #5 30 BEGIN Mini-Camp POST-CAMP

31 Turn in Payroll for Week #6

1 2 END MINI-CAMP

3 4 STAFF PARTY 5 Paid for Week #6 8 9 Turn in Payroll For MINI-CAMP

10 11 12 13 Checks Mailed for Week #7

14 Post Camp checks mailed directly from Home Office 8/13/23

PAYROLL POLICIES 2023

• Employees are paid weekly, on a week delay system. For example, if an employee works July 410, that employee will not get paid until July 17

• After working July 4-10, that employee’s hours are submitted on the following Monday and they are processed to be given out on the Friday or Saturday depending on the employee’s work shift (evening kitchen workers and clinic assistants are able to get their paychecks on Friday since they do not work Saturday).

• Hourly employees are not paid for their time eating meals. Mealtimes are calculated in the following ways: Breakfast = 15 minutes, Lunch = 30 minutes, Supper = 30 minutes. These are required breaks

• When on-site staff misses work, their pay for time not worked is calculated in ¼-day increments.

• OVERSEAS STAFF will get paid on a visa payroll processing card (CLIQ).

• A W-4 for the current summer must be submitted at least 7 days before a payroll is run (the Monday before paychecks are issued) in order to receive a check.

• If an employee needs a check to be reissued because it is lost, a $25 fee is charged to the employee and a 30-day waiting period is observed. Once the check is reissued after the waiting period, the employee must first give $25 cash or check (made out to Hermann Sons Life) to receive the new check. The $25 is charged to cover the $25 charge we incur for issuing a “stop payment” on the original check.

• All employees should make sure that the address on their checks is correct. In many cases, the last paycheck of the summer is mailed. Additionally, if employment is terminated before the end of his/her employment agreement, that person’s check is mailed.

• All W-2s are also sent to the address on the check. It is the employee’s responsibility to ensure current contact information is given to Camp administration.

I acknowledge that I have read and understand the policies for how I will receive my paychecks.