Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do you pronounce Makemie?
It is pronounced muh-keem'-ee.
2. Why is the camp named Makemie Woods?
The camp is named for Francis Makemie, known in historical circles as the founder of American Presbyterianism. He founded several churches that are part of the Presbytery of Eastern Virginia, which owns and operates the camp.
3. What is the camp's philosophy and mission?
The mission of MW is to provide Christian community, facilities and program in a natural environment that is accessible, welcoming, and empowering (AWEsome) to persons exploring faith in Jesus. For specifics about our mission, visit our mission page.
In the summer program, the philosophy focuses on building relationships and self - esteem. In a world racing to keep up with the latest technology, many skills we once believed to fundamental are being overlooked. Face to face conversation, making decisions that take in someone else's point of view, valuing and respecting a bird's song or the beauty of a deer--these are the focus at Makemie Woods. We teach essential life skills in a radically-accepting Christian community. Games and skills are taught in a non-competitive environment. Campers are challenged through Bible study and devotions to experience the living Christ in new ways.
4. What age children can participate in the summer program?
Entering first grade in the fall through entering 12th grade in the fall. See descriptions of our summer camp offerings.
5. When will the schedule and brochure be available?
The printed and online materials are made available in late January, after the Presbytery of Eastern Virginia holds its meeting, usually the fourth Saturday.
6. At what age can someone apply to be on the summer staff?
All paid summer staff members are at least 18 years of age, and usually at least one year beyond high school.
7. When are summer staff applications available?
Applications are usually available in December for the following summer. You may download an application from the website and return it to MW by mail, fax, or as an e-mail attachment, or you may ask us to send you an application in the mail. Contact Sherri or call 800.566.1496 for applications or questions.
9. Can I volunteer at Makemie Woods?
Makemie Woods is very grateful for volunteers. Several weekends each year we host our "Paul(a) Bunyan" workdays with a variety of opportunities to help clean up and improve the camp facilities.
Summer staff volunteers: If you have never worked as a MW staff member before, you will need to fill out a DOVE application form and return it to us. (This is available on the website, or by request.) DOVES generally volunteer because they cannot commit to an entire summer's contract. To be a DOVE, you must be at least 17 years old AND have finished 12th grade, or you need to successfully complete our YES program. Staff members from years past are welcomed as volunteers, so long as you call ahead so we know to expect you!
10. Do you rent out your facilities?
Yes. Except for the weeks summer camp is in full swing (mid-June through the first week in August), we host schools, church groups, non-profits, families... We can accommodate up to 130 people in our winterized facilities, and the summer camp sites are available for groups who prefer to rough it and enjoy the outdoors. Learn more about our retreat facilities. For retreats sponsored or programmed by Makemie Woods, see our upcoming events page.
More questions? Ask!
Call us at 800.566.1496 or email us!
It is pronounced muh-keem'-ee.
2. Why is the camp named Makemie Woods?
The camp is named for Francis Makemie, known in historical circles as the founder of American Presbyterianism. He founded several churches that are part of the Presbytery of Eastern Virginia, which owns and operates the camp.
3. What is the camp's philosophy and mission?
The mission of MW is to provide Christian community, facilities and program in a natural environment that is accessible, welcoming, and empowering (AWEsome) to persons exploring faith in Jesus. For specifics about our mission, visit our mission page.
In the summer program, the philosophy focuses on building relationships and self - esteem. In a world racing to keep up with the latest technology, many skills we once believed to fundamental are being overlooked. Face to face conversation, making decisions that take in someone else's point of view, valuing and respecting a bird's song or the beauty of a deer--these are the focus at Makemie Woods. We teach essential life skills in a radically-accepting Christian community. Games and skills are taught in a non-competitive environment. Campers are challenged through Bible study and devotions to experience the living Christ in new ways.
4. What age children can participate in the summer program?
Entering first grade in the fall through entering 12th grade in the fall. See descriptions of our summer camp offerings.
5. When will the schedule and brochure be available?
The printed and online materials are made available in late January, after the Presbytery of Eastern Virginia holds its meeting, usually the fourth Saturday.
6. At what age can someone apply to be on the summer staff?
All paid summer staff members are at least 18 years of age, and usually at least one year beyond high school.
7. When are summer staff applications available?
Applications are usually available in December for the following summer. You may download an application from the website and return it to MW by mail, fax, or as an e-mail attachment, or you may ask us to send you an application in the mail. Contact Sherri or call 800.566.1496 for applications or questions.
9. Can I volunteer at Makemie Woods?
Makemie Woods is very grateful for volunteers. Several weekends each year we host our "Paul(a) Bunyan" workdays with a variety of opportunities to help clean up and improve the camp facilities.
Summer staff volunteers: If you have never worked as a MW staff member before, you will need to fill out a DOVE application form and return it to us. (This is available on the website, or by request.) DOVES generally volunteer because they cannot commit to an entire summer's contract. To be a DOVE, you must be at least 17 years old AND have finished 12th grade, or you need to successfully complete our YES program. Staff members from years past are welcomed as volunteers, so long as you call ahead so we know to expect you!
10. Do you rent out your facilities?
Yes. Except for the weeks summer camp is in full swing (mid-June through the first week in August), we host schools, church groups, non-profits, families... We can accommodate up to 130 people in our winterized facilities, and the summer camp sites are available for groups who prefer to rough it and enjoy the outdoors. Learn more about our retreat facilities. For retreats sponsored or programmed by Makemie Woods, see our upcoming events page.
More questions? Ask!
Call us at 800.566.1496 or email us!
