How to Apply

• Fill out the application form completely.
• Complete all requested information on the release authorization form. Follow the instructions carefully. This form will be returned if not completed correctly.
• Send the reference form to at least 3 people who know you well (excluding members of your family) and who can attest to your character and ability to work with children in a camp environment. The references will be returned directly to the camp office. 3 completed reference forms must be returned for candidate eligibility.
• Mail your completed application to:

  Sky High Hope Camp

  1300 E. 21st Ave.

  Denver, CO 80205

You can expect to hear about your application status about 1 month after it has been processed. An interview will be arranged in person or by phone for those applicants who are selected as candidates.
If you have questions about the application please contact Pam Whitaker.

Minimal Staff Requirements

• Age: At least 18 years of age with one year of college or related work experience.
• Qualities: Staff members will be mature, responsible adults who are committed to camping, display a sincere concern for the welfare of children, and desire to work in a rustic outdoor setting. They must be able to tolerate rigorous physical activity at a minimum altitude of 8,500 feet. They must demonstrate an ability to work with all types of children.
• Experience: Previous camp counseling and/or child-care experience is helpful but not required. Medical experience is helpful but not required. Camping experience is highly desirable, as is ability to teach camp life skills. Specific qualifications and certifications are necessary for certain program and specialty areas. Please refer to specific position descriptions.
• CPR and First Aid Certification required. Additional certification may be required depending on staff position: i.e. Wilderness First Responder, Archery Certification, Water Certification

Staff is expected to participate fully in all camp activities and be available for the entire session.

Staff lives and works together in a rustic communal environment. All meals are provided at camp. Sleeping accommodations may be in a platform tent or cabin with 2-5 other staff members (of the same sex).

Campers sleep in tents or cabins in close proximity to the staff.

If You Are Accepted as a Counselor at Sky High Hope Camp

Staff members must provide their own transportation to and from camp. Mileage for travel is reimbursable at $.32/mile. Maximum reimbursement $100.00. Staff members provide their own clothing, gear and personal items.
 
Staff members are required to be at the camp during the entire week.

All staff members are required to submit a driver's license and proof of insurance if they are going to be transporting campers at any time during camp. Not all camp staff will be required or allowed to transport campers.

Camp staff is required to have a signed statement/physical from a physician, before camp begins, a TB test or recent chest X-ray and proof of immunizations records.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of Sky High Hope Camp?
The mission of Sky High Hope Camp is to give children who have or have had cancer and their siblings an opportunity to enjoy an outdoor camp experience in an environment that is safe, supportive and fun.

Who are the staff?
Our staff members are a widely diverse group of caring individuals. Each staff member brings something special to camp. Many of our volunteer staff returns to camp year after year.
 
For seven days, 24 hours a day, the staff takes on a number of roles to create the wonderful experience we call Sky High Hope Camp. We have unit staff and unit leaders, activity specialists, doctors and nurses. Each staff position is important and makes camp a great place to be.

What are we looking for in volunteer staff?
We are looking for volunteers who are willing to make a commitment to our organization and our campers. There is considerable amount of time between applying, your interview and camp, many things can happen. We understand this. However, we need your cooperation and commitment to communicate with us if your plans change.

What are campers like?
Children at camp have or have had cancer in their lives. Campers may be at different stages of the cancer experience or a sibling who has dealt with the same issues. The most obvious signs of current treatment may be a bald head, chemotherapy, general weakness, amputations, lessened mobility or vision. Some campers may have some cognitive issues. If siblings are attending we hope to support these children dealing with all of the issues of cancer.

What kind of activities will be at camp?
Activities offered at camp are designed to help the participants make new friends, feel part of a group and learn or improve skills and interests. Activities include: archery, nature study, arts & crafts, computers, water activities, horseback riding, hiking, and backpacking. Each session is planned around a theme that carries us through the week.

What is camp orientation?
Pre-camp orientation will begin on the Saturday before camp opens at 12:00 noon. During this time you will meet the other members of the camp staff. Job responsibilities, daily routine, emergency procedures, program orientation, and camp traditions will be presented and discussed.