FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions - Parents

What training does the staff undergo?

CYC staff go through 50 hours of on-site training, which covers a variety of topics including how to teach activities, behavior management, dealing with homesickness, conflict resolution, child abuse prevention, and many other camp-specific areas. Staff are also Red Cross CPR and First Aid certified. Prior to training, CYC staff are carefully screened from a large pool of applicants, interviewed, have references checked and are background checked.

What happens if my child is sick, injured or homesick?

CYC has a RN on staff each week who is available round the clock in case a camper is sick or injured. He/She is in close contact with staff and the Camp Director. In case of an emergency, the McGregor Clinic is just 15 minutes away and the Aitkin Hospital is just 30 minutes away. If your child gets sick or injured, the Camp Nurse or the Camp Director will call you. If your child is homesick, the Camp Director will call you and let you know what is going on. At CYC we are partners with you to make sure that your child is safe, healthy and happy.

Can I contact my child while he/she is at camp?

You can send your child emails through the bunk1 program (please see your parent handbook for further instructions) or letters through the mail, both of which are distributed each day. Campers are able to send letters back to you, but they will not be able to email back. Phone calls are limited unless a camper is sick or if there is a problem.

My child has allergies, medications or other special health needs. Can CYC accommodate him/her?

CYC will work with families on a case by case basis to determine if we are the right camp for your child. We regularly have campers that take medications or have allergies. Our Camp Nurse and staff can handle most situations, but if you are concerned, please call the office prior to registering your child and speak with the Camp Director.

How much money should I put in my camper’s camp store account?

Parents usually deposit $5-50 in their campers store accounts. Tee shirts cost from $8-15, sweatshirts $20, water bottles $8, snacks $1-3. Please see parent handbook for more information.

Can I request my child to be in the same cabin as his/her friend?

Yes. There is a place on the registration form to make a buddy request. If you have questions or concerns after registration, please feel free to contact the office.

---

Frequently Asked Questions - Campers

What kinds of activities do we do at camp?

There are a variety of activities for you to choose from. They include: archery, arts and crafts, sling shots, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, dance, drama, sports, swimming, newspaper, choir and nature. Check out the “Activities” section of the website for more details.

Can I be in the same cabin as my friend from home?

Yes. There is a place on the registration form to make a buddy request. If you have questions or concerns after registration, have your parents contact the office.

What do the weekly themes mean?

Throughout the week, the themes come up in all-camp activities and in your cabin activities. For instance, if you come during “Ooey Gooey Week” you might participate in an all-camp jello fight. If you come during “Olympic Week” you might take part in an all-camp Olympic competition. The themes don’t make the week drastically different, but they add a little something special to the week that you won’t soon forget.

Can my friends who aren’t Catholic come to CYC?

Yes! We welcome all people to CYC. All campers will go to daily prayer and the weekly prayer service, regardless of faith.

Can I bring my cell phone, iPod, video game to camp?

No. We ask that you leave these items at home. You will be very busy at camp and won’t find time to use them. Plus, sometimes cabins get messy and it can be difficult to keep track of expensive things. CYC is not responsible for lost or broken items, so leave those things at home!

What should I bring to camp?

You will get a packing list when you sign up for camp that reminds you to bring shorts, tee shirts, socks, pjs, etc. You should also bring a positive attitude, curiosity, creativity and a willingness to try new things and make new friends!

---

Frequently Asked Questions- Staff

What am I going to be responsible for?

You will be paired with another counselor and together, you will be responsible for a cabin of 12 campers. You are responsible for first and foremost their safety (physical and emotional) and their happiness. You will be expected to take them through activities at camp, interact with them at meals and throughout the day, help them make friends and anything else that comes up. You will be teaching three activities per day to mixed ages and gender groups. You will also be participating in all camp activities, counselor skits, leading songs and nightly devotions.

What skills do I need for this job?

More than anything else, you need to have a STRONG DESIRE to care for children. Your priority at all times will be to tend to the needs of children. You will need to be patient, understanding, have a sense of humor and a desire to see them enjoy their time at camp. We will teach you everything else at training.

What are the hours I will be working?

You will be working from noon on Sunday-4pm on Friday. During the week, you will have an hour off each morning and afternoon, as well as one night per week off. From Friday evening- Sunday morning, you are free to use your time as you wish. You can stay at camp or leave for the weekend. You will be expected to take one week of the summer off.

How much do I get paid?

Pay rates vary based on position and experience. But generally, first year counselors earn $200/week+ free room and board for the summer.

I’m not Catholic, can I still work at CYC?

Yes! We welcome everyone! However, all staff are expected to participate in all camp prayer and guide campers through nightly devotions.

Is there a computer available to use at camp?

Yes, there is a staff computer with internet access available at camp. We also have wireless internet, so feel free to bring your laptop for free time.