What is DOVE? This program recruits and trains persons who are interested in serving as Volunteer Staff during the summer camp program at Makemie Woods. DOVEs are trained to specific tasks within the camp program, especially helping with campers with special needs.

Who can be a DOVE? Anyone aged 16  (finished 11th grade) to 116 with a sincere desire to work with children, and to serve Jesus Christ. Because there will be some physical aspects to this service, and because it is required by the American Camp Association, we do require that DOVEs have a physical exam prior to volunteering (a physical already completed for some other purpose is fine). In some cases, the physical aspects may simply involve being able to walk a half-mile; for those who will be working with mobility impaired persons, there will be some lifting involved. We will make every effort to match your skills and abilities to the appropriate tasks, and would certainly not ask you to do anything that would be unwise for your health.

How do I become a DOVE?

1. Email Sherri Egerton, our Program Director, and have her send you a 2010 DOVE application packet or download the application packet using Adobe Acrobat.
2. Submit the application.
3. Have two persons who are adults (not relatives and NOT recent Makemie Woods staff) fill out and return the reference forms. One of them should be your pastor.
4. Have an interview with the Program Director and/or Director
   
5. Sign and return the Volunteer Covenant and Contract
   
6. Submit a physical form and a health history form.  If you are over 18 at time of application, we may also require a background check.
   
7. Attend and satisfactorily complete the training event scheduled for June 11-13, and do some brief reading and/or watch training videos in advance of this event.

What else is required of a DOVE? A DOVE is expected to agree to abide by and enforce all camp policies, especially those regarding being a good Christian role model: not using profane language, not smoking, not using alcohol or illegal drugs, and disciplining campers in ways that are appropriate--there is NO corporal punishment or verbal abuse permitted. DOVEs are expected to participate in as much of the camp program as they are able, and to work cooperatively with other staff.

How long is this training good for? Once a DOVE, always a DOVE--you can volunteer as often as you want or can, assuming you uphold the camp policies and contribute positively to the program. We will need you to keep up with policy changes and you will need a new physical every two years. When you complete your training, you will receive a certificate and a special staff T-shirt with the DOVE logo. You will also receive a written evaluation of your service.