Frequently Asked Questions
Why am I required to complete a Sterling Volunteer background check (link on Sibling Strong website) and a Federal background check through the Dept. of Children, Youth and Families?
The state of Washington requires volunteers who are attending Summer Camp to have a federal background check run through their office for approval. Because Sibling Strong does not have access to that information, we ask that all volunteers run our background check as well. There is a $17 fee for our background check.
What day/time should I arrive at camp on August 16th?
Volunteer Check In: Saturday, August 16th 9:00-9:30am. Training begins at 10am. If you have a current First Aid/CPR certification, and can provide copies of that certification, please contact Meg@sibling-strong.org.
What should I expect during training?
We will offer First Aid/CPR training, go over expectations of volunteers, overview of the camp week, cover ages/stages of youth in care, behavior management, de-escalation techniques, discuss emergency procedures, team building, learn about the kids you’ll be working with, etc.
Is everyone required to attend training?
Yes. Even those who have volunteered in past years are still required to participate in the training weekend. This is a unique situation, where volunteers are coming from all walks of life – many who are meeting for the first time over the weekend. Our goal is to build a cohesive team and we have just two full days to accomplish this! The amazing thing is, we see teams come together year after year! For those who are arriving with training and a history working with youth in care, know that this weekend is as much about team building as it is about learning.
What should I expect during the week of camp?
During the daytime, from 8am until 9pm, you will be in a Family Group – consisting of 4-5 volunteers and 10-12 campers. There are typically 3-4 sibling groups in each Family Group. You will spend every day with the same kids/volunteers.
In the evening, we will have a special activity: Monday: All Camp Swim Tuesday: Whoville Carnival Wednesday: Buddy the Elf’s Talent Show Thursday: Ultimate Christmas Party
Overnight, 9pm-8am, you will be in a Cabin Group. Campers are divided into male and female cabins. You may or may not be with the same campers day and night, but we do try to mix up groups overnight, if possible.
How many campers/volunteers will be attending?
This year we have 82 campers and 33 volunteers.
What are the sleeping arrangements and what is the cabin set up?
The log cabins sleep up to 12 people in bunkbeds. Each bed has a twin size mattress, but no bedding. We recommend bringing a twin fitted sheet to cover the mattress and a sleeping bag or bedding and a pillow. Bring your own towels/toiletries. There is a heater and Sibling Strong will provide a fan. There is a bathroom in every cabin with a shower, toilet and two sinks. There is also a private changing room in the bathroom. *A packing list will be sent out before camp*
What if I have dietary needs?
If you have dietary needs, and listed them on your application, we have made note of that. Please feel free to email any changes or updates to deb@sibling-strong.org. During the week of camp, please let Deb or Meg know if your dietary needs are not being met.
Where do I keep my meds?
During the training weekend, you may keep your meds with you. Just before campers arrive, you will be asked to either store your meds in a container in the admin area OR keep them in your vehicle.
Can I keep my phone with me?
Yes. We ask that you are not on your phone whenever you are with campers. Our goal for the camp week is for siblings to spend their time connecting with each other, not scrolling on their phones. Because of this, we ask all campers to leave their phones at home. When on a break, feel free to check FB and text, but when with campers, we ask that you keep your phone out of site.
What time are volunteers done on Friday, August 22nd?
Volunteers should plan to leave camp at 1pm on Friday, August 22nd.
Is there transportation provided to/from camp?
No. If you need to carpool with someone to/from camp, let Meg know: meg@sibling-strong.org and she will see who is coming from your area.
Can my spouse/friend visit me at camp?
Because we are working with protected youth, we cannot allow unapproved visitors on campus. It is a liability for Sibling Strong and could jeopardize our contract with DCYF.
Can I take pictures to post on my social media?
Volunteers are welcome to post pictures of other volunteers at camp. However, we ask that no youth are in those photos. Reminder: phones should be tucked away around campers.
If I have any issues during the camp week, who should I go to?
Please feel free to go to the following admin leadership with any issues:
Admin Asst./Volunteer Coordinator: Meg Scott (aka Lil Meggie)
Head Counselor: John Tilly (aka Big John)
Director: Deb Kennedy (aka Rain)
Asst. Director: Rebekah Bunting (aka Army Sis)