FAQs
I have filled out an application, when will I hear back?
Once your application has been received and all four references are turned in, you will be contacted. You may or may not be given a chance to interview, this is at the discretion of the directors. If you are not chosen to interview, you will receive a letter. If you are chosen to interview, your interviewer will let you know when a final decision will come.
This is entirely up to you. As mentioned, we will give stronger consideration to those who can stay for the duration of the summer, but there are some times when we can match applicants for halves of the summer or different periods. It is generally very hard for new staff members to jump in if they miss staff training or a chunk of the summer.
We do our best to accommodate these requests (as we are all in ministry) but cannot make guarantees for this time to be off. It is often difficult to find someone to fill this time when you are off, so we prefer to have plenty of advance notice in trying to work out a game plan. Regarding weddings, we only allow time off if you are in the wedding and arrangements can be made to care for your campers. As with any time off for trips/weddings, this time is unpaid.
What is your time table for hiring staff?
We generally recruit staff from October thru early March. Applications are accepted through the spring semester and we seek to place all returning staff by Christmas. Depending on the volume of applications, we may be finished hiring by April. Please feel free to or call us if you need to know your employment status.
Who can I use as references for employment?
Each applicant is required to have 4 references. You are required to use a pastor, campus minister, youth pastor or the like as well as a teacher. You may choose 2 of the following: former employer, Ridgecrest/Crestridge staff member, or character reference (this cannot be a minor or family member).
Do you consider new applicants (non-returning staff) for leadership/administrative positions?
Sometimes. Depending on our crop of returning staff, we may or may not choose to use new applicants for such positions. These include Administrative Director/Program Director, Camp Pastor/Religious Director, Tribal Leader/Village Director, Adventure Staff Director, Crafts Director, Waterfront Director, and so on. Often, we have had tremendous results bringing “new blood” into these positions. This is completely dependent on the pool of applicants received for the particular summer. Feel free to apply for what you like, a director will let you know of specific opportunities.
How are staff placed in cabins?
A few days into staff training week, we examine both age group requests (listed on your application) and the dynamics of the staff as a whole. We seek to place counselors in cabins where they have experience working with the age group, have listed it as “preferred”, and where the administration believes the pairing of counselors to be a good match. While not always possible, this model is our goal and observing behavior during training provides added insight.
How are skill assignments given (which classes will I teach)?
Skill assignments are given at the beginning of each session as each session creates a different slate of classes. Based on your proficiency in skill areas outlined in the application, and determination of teaching experience gleaned from an interview, placements will be made. In most cases, you will be asked to teach more than one skill/class area during the summer.
We believe our campers are the best in the world! They come from all different backgrounds and situations, but we seek to love them as Christ loves us. Our camp is unique in that most of our campers come as individuals, not part of a youth group or with a big group of friends. Many of them will know each other from year to year, but we only allow one cabin request per camper to limit large cliques in the cabin. Ultimately, each camper is unique and made in the image of Christ. They must be ministered to in a unique way that meets them where they are.
How much time off is provided?
Two and a half days per two-week session. This is divided up as 1 full day during week one and 1.5 days over a session break that everyone takes during week two. There are also blocks designated as “in-camp time off”. Staff are allowed to stay in camp or relax in the staff house which is located between the two camps.
What do staff do on their time off?
You have two choices on your time off: go crazy and do lots of stuff that will make you more tired or relax and enjoy some downtime. We recommend option #2. It’s generally a good idea not to go on trips during session break that will require a ton of driving, because they will just make you more tired. You need this time to rest and relax, to spend some quality time with the Lord and with your friends. Do something that will help you refocus and rest. The staff house (Boscobel) is a cool place to go – you get a break from being around kids, you can watch movies or make phone calls or check your email or hang out with other staffers or just have some alone time. There are a lot of places to visit in Asheville as well – the movies, Barnes & Noble, Best Buy, coffee shops, restaurants, and so on. The Biltmore House is nearby if you’re interested in that kind of thing, although it is expensive (around $40 per person) and will take a whole day to see thoroughly. The Blue Ridge Parkway is also close by and there are a lot of places to go hiking if you aren’t tired of doing that from camp. Let me just make sure I emphasize this though: find some way to recharge and rest, because you will need it.
Do you allow staff to receive visitors?
No, with the exception of time off. Visitors may not stay overnight in camp unless approved by the director/assistant director and have a specific function or purpose. Visitors are also required to pay $5 per meal eaten in camp. The reason for this policy is that receiving visitors is a liability for camp on two levels. If we were to allow someone in camp without a background check, we open ourselves up to very unpredictable situations. Furthermore, visitors distract our staff from their primary job: caring for our campers. We have found that it is nearly impossible to serve two masters at camp, and we need our staff’s full attention dedicated to our kids.
Payroll forms are filled out prior to arrival and checks are distributed every two weeks. You will need to have enough money to get you through 3 weeks, as the first check typically does not come through until this time. Checks may be cashed immediately at camp or direct deposited into your account. Please note that the first check will most likely be written out to you even if you sign up for direct deposit. This is due to the time it takes to get things set up with most banks. You will also be responsible for paying any outstanding charges you ring up in our “Canteen” or “Store” for goodies/clothing store items. We cannot automatically deduct this from your pay, so please be prepared to pay in cash.
Exercise is primarily done on your own time; either during a day off, a free swim, etc. Running trails surround camp as do “the loop” (a two-mile running loop between the camps). The boy’s camp has a weight room open to all staff and arrangements can be made for girl’s camp staff at the conference center upon request.
What can I expect when I arrive at camp?
You can expect to be greeted upon arrival with a big smile and reassuring words. The camp administration does everything possible to acclimate you with camp life and to help you settle in. The first night consists of a nice dinner, time to get to know one another, worship, and plenty of fun. You will feel at home in no time.
Cabin life is intense. Counselors live in the cabins with kids and share space throughout the summer. This is also the place where real relationships are forged. The rustic and natural setting of camp takes many distractions away that tend to cloud our vision of God. While it may be an adjustment for most of us to live in a mountain cabin with 8-10 kids at any one time, this new setting may be just what God is going to use to get your attention this summer!
How many counselors live in a cabin?
This depends on the age group you work with. For the most part, counselors are placed in pairs. The exception to this rule is when we close down a cabin due to numbers and place 3 in a cabin, or if you work with the younger age groups (Apache, Chippewa) that sometimes have 3 counselors.
What is the ratio of staff to campers in a cabin?
We have two and sometimes three staff in each cabin, and 6-10 boys in each cabin. Cabin ratios are generally 1:4 (staff to campers), 1:3 overall (staff to campers).
Do counselors live with campers?
Yes. Living quarters for counselors are shared between campers and staff. The girl’s cabins have bathrooms in the cabins and the boy’s cabins share a centrally located bathhouse (one for each age group).
How is transportation arranged in getting to and from camp?
The majority of our staff members drive their own cars, but this is not absolutely necessary. In fact, parking is somewhat limited so if you can carpool or arrange a ride with someone else this is helpful. Being without a car at camp is fine as numerous staff share the same time off and go out together. You can also spend time off within walking distance of camp at our staff house. SALT participants will not be allowed to have cars at camp, but may leave their cars at the Conference Center during their stay. If you plan to come to camp via bus or plane, just let us know and we will have a driver pick you up. If you have further questions, click on transportation.
Are counselors required to wear uniforms at all times?
No. All staff must wear a staff shirt and other required items on Opening and Closing days. These are obviously the days when parents are dropping off and picking up their children and we strive to look professional. While there is no uniform during the session there is a dress code provided with the contract if you are offered a position.
How is laundry handled at camp?
The boys’ camp laundry is done with campers’ laundry once per week by our laundry staff. The girls’ camp laundry is done when you have time apart from camper laundry or at Boscobel. It is recommended that you bring 2 laundry bags with you (one for colors and one for whites). This also ensures that your loads will not get too big for our washing machines.
What happens during staff training week?
Training is devoted to helping you see every aspect of responsibility you will have throughout the summer. It is essential that you are provided with a realistic picture of what kids will be like, how to care for them, and ways to respond in difficult situations. You will also receive instruction on what different age groups are like and how to work together as a team. Skills training is provided on how to effectively teach skills in creative ways. Some of the time will be dedicated to cleaning up camp and preparing it for campers. This is a wonderful time to get to know other staffers and get outside early. A good bit of time will be spent just getting spiritually ready for the challenge ahead. This includes worship, quiet times, and corporate prayer.
What support will I have as a staff member?
Both immediate supervisors and the administration provide direct staff support. Tribal Leaders and Village Directors are charged with leading and shepherding the staff. The Camp Pastor and Religious Director also make this a primary goal through discipleship. You will see many times through the summer where special time is taken out just for the staff, or someone may come along simply to pray with you. We know that our staff are the most vital part of our ministry and are thus supported well.
What is a typical day at camp like?
The key to understanding your day is to understand your campers’ day. Your day will almost completely mirror theirs. Your time will be split from teaching skills, to participating in some ridiculous game, to sharing insights from the Bible. This is the tip of the iceberg, but we go fairly full-tilt at camp—so get ready! To see a daily schedule check out A Day at Camp.
Food at camp is top-notch. We eat well each day; from chicken fingers to lasagna the food is a hit. Each meal you eat will be with your campers, and this is a wonderful time to share not only food but good conversation. Our meals are served family style so meal time is fun! The menus at camp run on a two-week cycle, so be prepared that you will see the same meal each session. However, this break is typically sufficient for most staff.
What will I need to bring with me to camp?
Most of our returning staff bring less and less each year as they realize just how little they actually need at camp. That being said, you will most likely bring too much stuff in your first year on staff. That’s okay! A suggested packing list will be mailed out in the spring with a number of additional documents. Some essential items include: Bible, plenty of t-shirts and shorts, hygiene items, 2-3 pairs of tennis shoes, hiking boots (if you got ‘em), socks, underoos, rain gear, sleeping bag, laundry bags, etc. We are glad to provide guidance on items if you would like to us or call 800-968-1630. One HUGE disclaimer is that everything you bring is considered to be your risk. Please bear this in mind as you fill your bags.
What’s your policy on cell phones/internet?
You may bring a cell phone if you choose but will only be allowed to use it on your time off, or in the staff lounge. Cell phone use in the cabin will not be tolerated as it severely distracts from your duties as a counselor and our camp environment. Internet is available in the staff lounges of both camps and in Boscobel (the staff house shared by both camps). Usage is limited to time off or off-duty times such as free swim.
What does “Boscobel” (the staff house) offer for my time off?
Lots of couches, 2 cable TV’s, high-speed internet, a full-size kitchen, laundry facilities, a prayer room, large porch/field, and foosball table.
Of course, we cannot anticipate every question that you might think of. If we have not covered a question that you need the answer to in this area, please feel free to call or us.
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