COUNSELOR IN TRAINING
CONTACT INFORMATION
• Main Address: 100 Community Boulevard, Wheeling, IL 60090
• Camp Website: www.wheelingparkdistrict.com/camps
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/wheelingparkdistrict
Important Phone Numbers:
Bethany Koudelka, Recreation Services Manager
847-465-2938
bkoudelka@wheelingparkdistrict.com
Nicole Mueller, Recreation Supervisor
847-465-7774
nmueller@wheelingparkdistrict.com
Community Recreation Center 847-465-3333 frontdesk@wheelingparkdistrict.com
Wheeling Park District Mission Statement
“To uphold our tradition as the provider of choice for parks and recreation in our community.”
WELCOME TO SUMMER CAMP 2026!
Welcome to the Counselor-in-Training (CIT) Program!
This program is designed to help participants develop leadership, communication, teamwork, and job-readiness skills while gaining hands-on experience supporting camp staff and CITs.
While CITs may participate in camp activities and special events, their primary role is to learn through observation, responsibility, and hands-on support. CITs are expected to follow all camp rules and adhere to the CIT Code of Conduct, which emphasizes respect, appropriate behavior, teamwork, and safety at all times.
Please note that the CIT program is a leadership development opportunity and a privilege. CITs will be held to higher expectations than standard CITs, as their behavior directly impacts the safety, experience, and success of the camp environment.
We look forward to a positive and rewarding experience for your camper this summer. CITsPlease note that the majority of camp activities take place outdoors. In the event of inclement weather, CITs will be relocated to a designated indoor space to continue activities safely. where the fun can continue safely.
Bethany Koudelka, Recreation Services Manager, oversees all day camp programs. Our Camp Director and Camp Leaders are on-site each day and are always happy to help with questions or support throughout the camp day.
CAMP REGISTRATION POLICIES & PROCEDURES
Registration Dates
• Registration for Residents opens February 11, 2026, 8:00 am
• Registration for Non-Residents opens February 18, 2026, 8:00 am
Camp Registration Deadline
• CITs must enroll by May 27 for Session 1 and June 24 for session 2.
• Payment plans are available to CITs attending a minimum of 3 weeks of camp.
• Payment schedules are determined based on the date of approval.
• Families interested in payment plans must register in person before May 10.
• No exceptions will be made.
Camp Refund Policy
The following refund guidelines apply to all camp registrations:
• CITs must submit any withdrawal request no later May 27 for Session 1 and June 24 for session 2.
• All withdrawal requests must be submitted through the online requisition form available on the summer camp webpage.
• Phone calls, emails, and in-person notifications will not be accepted.
• A $25 service charge per camper, per transaction will be applied to all approved refund requests.
Camp Transfer Policy
The following guidelines apply to all camp transfer requests:
• CITs must submit any transfer requests no later than May 27 for Session 1 and June 24 for session 2.
• All transfer requests must be submitted through the online requisition form on the Summer Camp webpage.
• Phone calls, emails, and in-person requests will not be accepted.
• The first three (3) approved transfer requests are free of charge. Any additional approved transfers will incur a $10 service fee per camper, per transaction.
• All transfers are subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed. If a transfer request cannot be approved due to space limitations, alternative options will be offered and must be confirmed by the stated deadline.
CAMP WAITLIST POLICY AND PROCEDURES
The following guidelines apply to all waitlist placement, notification, enrollment, and refunds:
• Waitlist placement is available only for CITs not currently enrolled in a camp for the requested week. Each eligible camper may be placed on one waitlist per week.
• Families will be notified only if a space becomes available, no later than May 29 for
Session 1 and June 25 for session 2. To accept the placement, families must confirm enrollment and submit full payment by the provided deadline. Failure to respond or submit payment by the deadline may result in forfeiture of all waitlist placements.
• No refunds will be issued after the registration deadline for any enrollments, including extended care, sibling registrations, or other add-ons, if placement from the waitlist is not offered.
Friendship Requests
• Friendship requests are not accepted.
• To support CITs in focusing on leadership development while building positive connections with younger CITs, each group will be assigned one CIT to assist camp staff. CITs will also have opportunities to connect during dedicated CIT activities.
GETTING READY FOR CAMP
ePACT MEDICAL/EMERGENCY PAPERWORK
We partner with ePACT to service CITs and staff. ePACT offers a health record system that allows parents to complete and store camper health information electronically. The security and privacy of health information is important to us. Families must complete all medical and emergency information electronically through ePACT prior to the start of camp.
Please note: If this information is not completed, your camper will NOT be able to attend camp. Families must reach out to ePACT directly for assistance with ePACT paperwork; guest services staff cannot assist. We recommend that all authorized adults “opt-in” to text messages on ePACT. This is how last-minute updates (such as rainy day drop-off/pick up) will be communicated
WHAT TO WEAR
Please keep in mind that CITs spend the majority of their day outside and may get messy while participating in outdoor play, water games, and projects. CITs should arrive each day wearing comfortable, durable weather-appropriate play clothing. Clothing that can be layered on and off is recommended to help CITs stay comfortable as weather conditions change. For safety reasons, CITs must wear gym shoes at all times. Crocs, sandals, and other opentoed or backless shoes are not permitted. Articles of clothing, backpacks, or other items that are determined to be offensive or disruptive may be taken away or changed based on the discretion of the Recreation Services Manager.
Each CIT receives one camp shirt with registration. CITs attending field trips must wear their WPD Camp shirt on all designated trip days. Campers may not be checked in for trip days unless they are wearing their designated camp shirt. Walkers who arrive on site without a camp shirt will be brought to the office and a guardian will be contacted. Pending inventory availability, an additional camp shirt may be purchased.
WHAT TO BRING EACH DAY
• Labels:
º Please label all items with your CIT’s first and last name.
• Lunch:
º All CITs are required to bring a sack lunch with a reusable water bottle.
» Allergies: CITs with food allergies will sit in a “nut-free zone” at lunchtime. Please keep in mind that lunches are NOT refrigerated but are stored indoors.
º Please keep in mind that lunches are NOT refrigerated but are stored indoors.
º CITs do NOT have access to microwaves.
º If your CIT forgets their lunch and you are dropping one off, please speak to our staff about what time your CIT will eat lunch.
º Ordering lunch and having it delivered to our facility for CITs is not permitted
º CITs may NOT purchase snacks or beverages from the vending machine
• Reusable water bottle:
º CITs will have access to a water bottle filler station.
• Backpack:
º Please send your CIT with a backpack to carry their belongings.
• Hats:
º Hats are optional but strongly encouraged.
• Bug Spray:
º Optional but encouraged.
PERSONAL PROPERTY/LOST AND FOUND
Wheeling Park District staff are not responsible for lost or stolen property/money brought by CITs.
• Please leave all personal property at home.
• Any personal items, such as toys, Pokemon cards, sports equipment, fidget toys, poppers, etc., should not be brought to camp.
• CITs may not share personal items with other CITs.
• Cell phones are permitted but should be kept in the CIT’s backpack.
Please be sure to label ALL belongings with the CITsfirst and last name.
Note: Items left behind each day are placed on the camp lost and found table in the lobby at the CRC. Lost and found items not claimed at the end of each week will be disposed of.
CELL PHONES AND ELECTRONICS
• Cell phones are permitted but should be kept in the CIT’s backpack while at camp.
• CITs may not use smart watches for communication or recording while at camp.
• CITs are not permitted to take pictures or videos of campers with personal electronics.
• CITs are not permitted to collect phone numbers or other contact information from campers.
• Tablets, Laptops, Cameras, or other electronic devices are not permitted at camp.
ARRIVAL, DEPARTURE PROCEDURES
Camp Locations
Counselor In Training (CIT)
DROP OFF AND PICK UP
Detailed drop-off and pick-up instructions will be provided in the weekly email sent to families prior to each camp week. These emails will include location-specific information to ensure a smooth and safe arrival and dismissal process. Maps of typical drop-off and pick-up locations will be made available in May with typical drop off/pick up locations
Please note that, based on facility operations, drop-off and pick-up locations may change from week to week. Families are expected to review the weekly camper email carefully. Failure to follow updated drop-off and pick-up instructions may result in delays to camp operations.
• If the program has an indoor drop-off or pick up or is moved indoors due to weather, please park your vehicle in a marked parking space and drop off/pick up your camper inside the designated camp location.
• Parking is NOT PERMITTED in front of the Community Recreation Center.
• Designated Village of Wheeling parking spaces are NOT PERMITTED for any use.
ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE
• Sign in:
º Authorized persons are required to sign in campers each day.
º Campers should arrive no earlier than the start of camp. Camp staff is not available to accept campers until the start of the camp day due to daily preparation needs.
º For the safety of all campers, if the camp group has started transitioning from the day’s designated pick-up spot, authorized adults must park their vehicle, bring the camper to the Guest Services Desk, and follow Late Arrival Procedures.
• Sign Out:
º Campers are expected to be picked up on time each day.
º Authorized adults listed on the ePACT are required to sign out each day.
» A person must be listed on all siblings’ ePACT forms to pick them all up.
º Campers will NOT be released to an individual not listed on the ePACT.
º Staff will require photo identification from anyone picking up a child.
• Late Pick Up:
º In the event of a late pick-up, and a child is not enrolled in After Camp Care, please call the Guest Service Desk at 847-465-3333 with an estimated time of arrival.
º Per the acknowledgement form, a fee of $1 per minute from the end of the enrolled program until the time of pick-up and sign-out will be charged for each camper. The fee will be charged to the household of the camper.
º The authorized adult picking up will be asked to sign an acknowledgment form recognizing the fee that will be charged to the camper’s household.
º Consistent lateness, failure to comply, or failure to make payments will result in termination from the program.
º The following procedures will be followed when a camper has not been picked up according to their enrollment and program end times.
Campers not picked up by 3:00 pm
º The Primary Guardian will be contacted by phone to obtain an estimated time of arrival.
º In the event of no response, the Secondary Guardians will be contacted by phone to obtain an estimated time of arrival.
º If staff are unable to receive a response with an estimated time of arrival from an authorized adult, the camper will be brought to After Camp Care at a rate of $1 per minute.
Campers not picked up by 6:00 pm
After Camp Care ends promptly at 6:00 pm, all campers must be picked up by this time.
º The Primary Guardian will be contacted by phone to obtain an estimated time of arrival.
º In the event of no response, the Secondary Guardians and/or Emergency Contacts will be contacted by phone to obtain an estimated time of arrival. If staff are unable to receive a response with an estimated time of arrival from an authorized adult within 30 minutes, the police will be contacted.
AUTHORIZED PICK UP PERSONS
• Any person dropping off or picking up your CIT must be listed on the ePACT form.
• A person must be listed on all siblings’ ePACT forms to pick them all up.
• If an authorized person is added once the camp session has started, send a notification email to camps@wheelingparkdistrict.com after adding them to each camper’s ePACT.
• Staff reserves the right to check the photo ID of anyone picking up or dropping off a CIT.
WALK SLIP
• CITs ages 10 and older are permitted to sign themselves in and out of camp only if authorized on their ePACT paperwork.
• Walk slip permissions do not permit a CIT to sign out additional campers.
• If your CIT has a walk slip and will be missing camp, please email camps@wheelingpark-
district.com prior to the start of the camp day.
• If a CIT’s group has departed on a field trip, they will not be permitted to join camp that day. An authorized adult will need to pick up the camper within 30 minutes.
LATE ARRIVALS
• All CITs dropped off after camp drop off concludes must be brought to the Guest Services Desk and checked in with our Summer Camp staff. Due to limited staff, CITs may need to wait in the office until someone is available to bring them to their group.
• If a CIT’s group has departed on a field trip, they will not be permitted to join camp that day.
EARLY PICK UPS
• All early pick-up requests must be emailed to camps@wheelingparkdistrict.com the day prior. Please include the information below in your email:
º Name of CIT
º Name of camp enrolled in
º Name of the authorized pick-up person
º Time of pick-up (Must be BEFORE 2:00 pm)
º Reason for pick-up
• Early pick-ups will not be permitted after 2:00 pm unless a request has been submitted and approved in advance. In emergency circumstances, the authorized pick-up person must speak directly with a full-time staff member.
• CITs attending field trips are not eligible for early pick-up.
• To ensure timely availability, CITs may wait in the office with staff prior to their scheduled pick-up time. Failure to submit an early pick-up notification may result in additional wait time while staff locate the CIT and complete a safe check-out.
• All approved authorized pick-up persons must check in with Guest Services, where summer camp staff will assist with the CITcheck-out process.
ON-SITE ENTERTAINMENT AND OFF-SITE FIELD TRIPS
ON SITE ENTERTAINMENT
• CITs will attend any on-site entertainment scheduled for their camp group
• CITs will have the opportunity to enjoy the show or activity while also assisting camp staff with camper supervision and management.
CIT FIELD TRIPS
• CITs will come together for weekly trips.
• Trips will primarily focus on team-building, service projects, and leadership challenges, while also including select opportunities for fun off-site experiences.
• If a CIT is enrolled to be assigned to a camp that attends field trips, CITs will NOT join their assigned group on the trip. If the CIT camp is attending the same trip location, CITs will be together in an independent group.
• CITs may be assigned alternative tasks to help support camp if no CIT trips or activities are scheduled while their assigned group is off site on a field trip.
TRIP DAY ATTENDANCE
CITs must attend the full camp day (9:00 am-3:00 pm) in order to participate in a scheduled field trip. CITs who arrive after the scheduled time will not be transported to join the group under any circumstances and will not be able to attend the camp day. Guardians may not drop off CITs at the field trip location, nor may they pick up CITs early from the trip site. If your CIT will be missing camp on the day their camp is scheduled to go on a field trip, please email camps@wheelingparkdistrict.com prior to the start of the camp day.
TRIP DAY WAIVERS
Some field trips may require families to complete an external waiver provided by the trip site in order for their Camper to participate in activities and/or be present on site.
• CITs will not be allowed to attend camp or the field trip if the required waiver is not fully completed by the stated deadline.
• Any technical issues related to completing external waivers must be addressed directly with the site provider; WPD staff are unable to provide technical support for third-party systems,
• To ensure the safety of all CITs and staff, CITs are expected to follow all camp rules, facility rules, and directions given by both camp staff and administrative staff at all times.
TRIP BEHAVIOR
• CITs must remain with their assigned group and supervising staff throughout the trip.
• CITs are required to listen to and follow instructions from on-site personnel.
• Respectful behavior toward staff, peers, and the facility is expected at all times. Please note that some facility amenities, attractions, or activities may have age, height, skill, or safety requirements. CITs who do not meet these requirements will not be permitted to use those amenities, regardless of parental permission. These restrictions are set by the facility and must be followed without exception.
Camp staff cannot override facility rules or safety guidelines. CITs who are unable to follow behavior expectations or facility rules may be removed from certain activities or, if necessary, from the remainder of the field trip. In severe or repeated cases, CITs may be returned to the camp site early where parents will be contacted for early pick-up at the camp site.
CITs are not permitted to make purchases of food, beverages, souvenirs, or other items while on field trips.
SWIM BANDS
• CITs will receive swim bands that identify their ability levels and permitted area access.
• For safety reasons, all CITs will begin with limited access to aquatic facilities.
• CITs may participate in a swim test to gain access to deeper water areas and larger attractions. Camp staff will work with the off-site pool to administer swim tests and provide access when available. All CITs must meet the facility’s minimum height and safety requirements for each amenity, regardless of swim band color or ability.
HEALTH & SAFETY, & MEDICATIONS
SUNSCREEN
Wheeling Park District does not provide sunscreen, nor does the staff apply sunscreen to the CITs. It is your responsibility to apply sunscreen on your CIT before camp and to educate your CIT on how to apply sunscreen.
• Please provide your CIT with labeled sunscreen EACH DAY.
• Sharing sunscreen is not permitted. Please provide your CITwith their own bottle.
• Check your CIT’s sunscreen throughout the summer to see if it is running low, and replace as needed. Spray sunscreen, as well as a face stick, are recommended.
• If your CIT is sensitive to the sun, a long-sleeved swim shirt and a hat s are recommended for outdoor pool days.
MEDICATIONS
• We recognize that program participants occasionally need to take prescription medications. If your CITneeds medication, complete the Medication Dispensing Form with specific instructions on the disbursement. Camp Counselors can provide you with the mediation envelopes.
• Medication will not be administered without completed forms. Forms are available online through ePACT.
• Epi-pens, inhalers, etc., must be sent in a large zip-lock bag with the CIT’s name written boldly on the bag in black permanent marker. These items can be stored overnight, upon the parent’s request, in a locked, secure location at the CRC. Otherwise, medications will be sent home every day. Throughout the camp day, the CIT’s camp leader will administer medications. After camp is over, all medication that is not picked up by August 21, 2026, will be disposed of.
• As-needed medication is not permitted.
PARENTAL PROCEDURES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
• Guardian must provide permission to Dispense Medication/Waiver and Release All Claims Forms on ePACT. Complete and sign the Medication Dispensing Information Form electronically.
• Fill out Medication Envelope: For daily oral medication, pills must be placed in individual Medication Envelopes provided by the Park District and separated by day. On the envelope, include the CIT’s name, medication, dosage, and time of day the medication is to be given. Along with written instructions from a physician, parents must verbally communicate with camp staff regarding specific instructions for medication.
• If a CIT has noted on ePACT that the CIT has an EpiPen, inhaler, or medication, they will not be admitted into camp unless they come to camp with the medication.
ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION
We look forward to providing your CITwith a safe and memorable summer experience. With this in mind, we ask that you share with us any additional health/medical conditions, behavioral and/or emotional issues your CIT may have so that we can be sure to accommodate your CIT’s needs.
ACCIDENTS/INJURIES
All injuries are documented and submitted to the District’s Risk Manager. Counselors administer first aid, and camp staff speak with parents either during or after the camp day to inform them of the incident. In the case of more serious injuries, including head trauma, camp staff will contact Emergency Medical Services (EMS), and phone a parent immediately. All camp staff are CPR-certified.
MEDICAL EMERGENCIES
If your CIT is injured or takes ill and requires more than basic first aid treatment, the following steps will be taken:
• If the situation warrants, EMS will be called.
• Guardian or emergency contact will be contacted.
• If paramedics deem it necessary, they will transfer the CITto the nearest hospital.
• The Guardian or emergency contact will be notified of what hospital their CIT is being transported to.
• The Guardian is responsible for the emergency medical charges for all services rendered. Your enrollment in the camp authorizes camp staff to secure emergency medical treatment for your CIT. Your commitment to payment thereof is part of the registration agreement.
ILLNESS
• If a CIT is ill or has a fever, they will not be admitted to camp.
• CITs must be fever-free for 24 hours before returning to the program. In the event that your CITcontracts a contagious illness, please notify staff immediately via email to camps@wheelingparkdistrict.com Symptoms to watch for include:
• Cough
• Congestion
• Runny nose
• Fever
• Sore throat
• Headache
• Nausea/Vomiting/Diarrhea
• Shortness of breath/difficulty breathing,
• Chills
• Fatigue
• Muscle pain
• Loss of taste/smell
If a CIT does show signs of illness throughout the camp day, they will be separated from their group with a staff member, and pick-up will be required within one hour.
If a CIT becomes ill at camp and a Guardian cannot be reached, the emergency contact(s) will be called. Refunds are not issued for days missed due to illnesses.
CODE OF CONDUCT
CAMPER CODE OF CONDUCT
CITS MUST
• Show respect to all campers, fellow CITs, staff, and facilities, and follow directions from camp leadership and assigned staff.
• Use appropriate language at all times; foul, abusive, or inappropriate language is not permitted.
• Refrain from causing bodily harm to themselves or others and from using hands or body force.
• Treat all equipment, supplies, and facilities with care, including assisting with activity setup and clean-up.
• Remain with their assigned camp group and supervising staff at all times unless otherwise directed.
• Remain actively engaged, attentive, and supportive during all camp activities.
• Actively support camper supervision and group management under the direction of camp staff.
• Maintain appropriate boundaries with campers, including avoiding unsupervised one-onone interactions.
• Serve as positive role models by demonstrating respectful behavior, cooperation, and leader-ship.
• Arrive on time, stay in assigned areas, and fulfill assigned duties throughout the camp day.
• Refrain from using phones, tablets, smart watches, cameras, or other electronic devices during camp hours unless permitted by staff for program purposes.
• Follow all camp policies, procedures, and safety guidelines.
CIT MAY NOT
• Discipline campers independently or make program decisions without preapproval by staff.
• Leave assigned areas without permission from supervising staff.
• Engage in inappropriate conversations, physical contact, or social media interactions with campers.
• Disrupt activities or undermine staff authority.
Participation in the CIT program is a privilege, and adherence to this Code of Conduct helps ensure a safe, positive, and successful camp experience for everyone.
BEHAVIOR AND DISCIPLINE
A positive and supportive approach to behavior guidance will be used at all times. Camp leadership will regularly review expectations and the CIT Code of Conduct with participants. CITs are expected to demonstrate leadership, responsibility, and respect and to model appropriate behavior for campers.
If inappropriate behavior occurs, prompt and appropriate resolutions will be implemented based on the individual situation. Corrective actions may include redirection, loss of privileges, limited participation in activities, or additional supervision.
The Wheeling Park District reserves the right to suspend and/or dismiss a CIT whose behavior:
• Poses a safety risk to themselves or others
• Negatively impacts the experience of campers, fellow CITs, or staff
• Includes the use of inappropriate or abusive language
• Involves physical or verbal aggression, threats, or inappropriate conduct
• Interferes with staff’s ability to safely conduct, supervise, or manage camp activities.
• Refunds are not issued for days missed due to disciplinary suspension or dismissal.
DISRUPTIVE BEHAVIOR DISCIPLINARY STEPS
To ensure a pleasant and safe environment for every CIT and camper, the Wheeling Park District has the following procedures in place regarding disruptive behavior:
• First Incident:
º The guardian is notified, and an incident report is completed.
• Second Incident:
º The guardian is called, an incident report is completed, and an authorized pick up person must pick up the camper within 30 minutes. The guardian must meet with the Recreation Services Manager before the CIT or Camper is allowed to return to camp.
• Third Incident:
º The guardian must pick up the CIT or Camper within 30 minutes, and the CIT or Camper may be suspended or terminated from camp at the discretion of the Recreation Service Manager.
Depending on the severity of the behavior, steps may be adjusted or skipped at the sole discretion of camp leadership.
SEVERE MISBEHAVIOR
For severe misbehavior, a guardian or emergency contact is called to pick up the CIT or Camper from camp within 30 minutes. Examples of misbehavior warranting a call home include (but are not limited to):
• Disrespect
• Destruction of property
• Disregard of rules
• Verbal abuse
• Physical fighting
The Wheeling Park District reserves the right to move directly to suspend or terminate a CIT or camper based on the severity of the incident/behavior. This decision is at the sole discretion of the Recreation Services Manager and will be communicated directly to the guardian of the CIT or camper.
Recreation Services Manager, Recreation Supervisor, Camp Director will only speak with the guardians listed on the CIT or camper’s ePACT form regarding any inappropriate behavior/incident at camp.
PARENT CODE OF CONDUCT
Any guardian or authorized person on the emergency contact form who displays any of the following behaviors will no longer be allowed at camp, and their Camper’s participation in the program may be terminated at the sole discretion of the Recreation Services Manager.
• Physical abuse, shaking, grabbing, hitting, or pushing of a CIT, camper or staff; verbal abuse, including inappropriate language or threats to a CIT, camper, other camp family, or staff.
• Disciplining, stalking, instructing, or inappropriately approaching a CIT, camper or staff.
Communication between any parent and another CIT or Camper, other than their own, regarding the CIT or Camper’s behavior, will not be tolerated. If there is an issue between two CITs, the parent should bring it to the attention of camp staff.
Additionally, as Mandated Reporters, if staff suspect a guardian or authorized emergency contact person of substance abuse or suspect any act of CIT or Camper abuse, the proper authorities will be notified. The camp staff’s first responsibility is the safety of the CITs and Campers.
Only current CIT or camp participants, guardians, and authorized individuals listed on the emergency contact form are allowed on or around premises during camp hours and must leave the campsite once the participant is signed in/out of the program.
CAMP PHONES & EMAILS
To ensure timely and appropriate communication, families are asked to follow the communication guidelines when contacting camp staff to allow staff to remain focused on CIT and camper safety, supervision, and programming during the camp day
The general camp phone line and email are the primary methods of communication and should be used for:
• Reporting camper absences
• Requesting early pick-ups
• General inquiries or concerns
These accounts are monitored by part-time camp leaders during regular weekday business hours. Responses will be provided as soon as possible during camp hours
Camp staff may check the camp email periodically throughout the day; however, they do not have consistent or immediate access due to supervision responsibilities. Families should not rely on email for urgent or time-sensitive matters during camp hours.
If you have an emergency or an unforeseen circumstance and you are unable to reach camp staff, please contact the Recreation Services Manager, the Recreation Supervisor, or the CRC Front Desk.
FIELD TRIP PHONES
When camps are on field trips, the Camp Leader will carry a District cell phone for emergency use only. These phones are in staff possession solely for the duration of the trip and are intended for emergency communication, not routine updates or inquiries. Numbers will be emailed out along with camp information email following the close of session registration
GENERAL POLICIES
BULLYING
Bullying is defined as any gesture or written, verbal, graphic, or physical act (including cyberbullying via the Internet and/or cell phone) that is dehumanizing, intimidating, hostile, humiliating, threatening, or otherwise likely to evoke fear of physical harm or emotional distress. This also includes forms of retaliation against individuals who report or cooperate in preventing bullying.
Bullying or harassment interferes with a guest’s ability to learn and enjoy a program, event, or facility use. All staff, volunteers, and participants are required to refuse to tolerate bullying and demonstrate respectful behavior at all times. The Wheeling Park District does not tolerate bullying in any form. All members of the Park District are committed to ensuring a safe and caring environment for all.
SUSPECTED ABUSE OR NEGLECT
All Wheeling Park District employees are Mandated Reporters in Illinois. In accordance with the procedures set by the Abused and Neglected ChildReporting Act, any employee having reasonable cause to believe that a CIT or Camper known to them in their professional capacity may be an abused or neglected CIT or Camper shall immediately report the matter to their supervisor. The proper authorities will be notified.
AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT
The Wheeling Park District is committed to accessibility for individuals with disabilities and strives to provide equal participation in all programs and services. The Park District policy is to reasonably accommodate all qualified program applicants in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). We welcome questions, comments, and concerns of interested community members regarding Park District ADA compliance.
To arrange for auxiliary aids or accommodations enabling individuals with disabilities to participate in Park District public meetings or to request publications in a special format (such as audiocassette or large print), contact the Park District ADA coordinator, Matt Wehby, at 847465-3333, email (mwehby@wheelingparkdistrict.com), or write (100 Community Boulevard, Wheeling, IL 60090).
INCLUSIVE RECREATION PROGRAMS
In a continuing effort to meet the needs of residents with special needs, NWSRA (Northwest Specials Recreation Association) and the Wheeling Park District provide inclusive recreation services. This means that individuals with disabilities are able to participate in programs offered by the Park District. Communicate any special needs and accommodations during the registration process, and together, the Wheeling Park District and NWSRA will provide the support necessary for success.
All NWSRA requests should be made by emailing the Recreation Services Manager, Bethany Koudelka, at bkoudelka@wheelingparkdistrict.com. Please note that a minimum of 2 weeks’
notice is required. However, more time may be needed for NWSRA to secure staff.
GIFTS AND REWARDS
Wheeling Park District employees appreciate family support and recognition. However, gifts, gift cards and rewards are not necessary and may not be accepted by Wheeling Park District employees.
Receive the Request
Create an Account Getting Started
• You will receive an invite email for EACH child participating in a program this season
• Click COMPLETE REQUEST to get started
Wheeling Park District utilizes the ePACT Network, a health and safety software, to better support all our families and make it easier to submit critical data securely!
ePACT is a secure digital solution that allows you to quickly share the health and emergency information we need, and provides us with powerful communication tools to ensure we have a way to contact you in the event of an illness, injury, or larger scale emergency.
WHY EPACT?
• If you’ve never used ePACT before, you will have to Create an Account via the link sent to the email to you after you have registered for camp.
• Add your name and choose a password & accept the Terms and Conditions
• Read the instructions carefully
• Click on Getting Started
Follow the Steps
Initial and Signature
• Answer the questions on each step. Those with * are required
• Ensure all the steps have a checkmark
To save you time - With ePACT, you only need to complete your child’s information once, and then verify that it is still correct for additional programs or subsequent years (which can be done in just two minutes)! And if you need to update something quickly, just log in and update it and we'll be notified immediately.
As well, if you have more than one child registered, you only need to enter shared family information once!
For better security & privacy - ePACT's high encryption levels and commitment to security means your data on ePACT is safer than on paper- where it can be misplaced or accessible to people who shouldn't have access to it. ePACT allows us to limit and track access.
Quick Support – if you need help with your account, ePACT is there for you by email at help@epactnetwork.com or call 1-855-773-7228 ext. 1
• Add your initials to each waiver and add your signature
• Click on the Share button to complete the process!
Completion of all required camper ePACT information is mandatory prior to the first day of camp. Campers may not attend unless all information is submitted in full.
