Question 1

Important Staff Policies

Accepted Answer

Read about our important staff policies here.

Question 2

Community and Engagement

Accepted Answer

Our staff community is eclectic and diverse - from staff members who grew up at Lutherdale as campers to staff members traveling from around the world for their first time at overnight camp. Through programming created specifically for staff, a fulfilling Staff Orientation experience, and the intentional work of our Staff Engagement Coordinator, staff members are given the opportunity to create life long relationships, learn  to be strong role models, grow as young professionals, while being supported in every step along the way.

Question 3

Open and Safe Community

Accepted Answer

At Lutherdale, we strive to be an Open and Safe Community that is welcoming and inclusive, and that celebrates the differences in background, experience, abilities, and beliefs that make us a holy community. We believe that all members of out community add value, and expect that staff members will accept and support this philosophy and treat every member of our community with respect and acceptance, and will help them to be successful. The leadership of camp (both summer and year-round) will provide training as well as hands-on, in-the-moment support for staff to be able to respond to the needs of all of our campers and fellow staff members, and provide them with the right tools and strategies to encourage success for all.

Question 4

Staff Mental, Emotional, Spiritual, and Social Health

Accepted Answer

At Lutherdale, we care about supporting the Mental, Emotional, Spiritual and Social Health needs of our staff members and campers. Our staff members we see as our biggest assets, as you embark on the work at camp that is both rewarding and demanding we want to support in whatever ways possible. This can look like additional support in the cabin, engaging staff programs on the weekend, and optional daily check-ins. Lutherdale encourages staff members to continue using their outside support networks during the summer.

Question 5

Staff Housing

Accepted Answer

Staff who are hired to work as Cabin Leaders or Support Staff, with some exceptions, are expected to live with campers in their assigned bunks. Kitchen Staff, Support Staff, and Coordinator Team will live in either a staff-only cabin or private housing, depending on their position. In some cases, Coordinators will sleep in cabins as a second supervisor for campers. We partner with all staff to provide housing that affirms their gender identity. If you have any concerns about your housing, please do not hesitate to ask about accommodations during the interview process.

Question 6

Performance Management

Accepted Answer

Lutherdale is invested in your growth as a professional and provides feedback, evaluates your performance, and helps you develop skills. Your direct supervisor will give feedback through daily check-ins and you will have a weekly evaluation. Working at Lutherdale allows you to develop your communication, collaboration, creativity, critical thinking, leadership, and work ethic. If there is a specific area you are looking to grow in this summer make sure to mention it in your interview.

Question 7

Group Placement

Accepted Answer

Cabin Leaders are assigned to work with a specific group/program each week. The process of assigning staff members to groups and programs takes time and thought. Prior to camp, all staff have the opportunity to request the groups/programs they prefer to work with. When making the weekly placement decisions, we must consider the needs of our campers, the needs of each group/program, and the overall needs of camp. We hope that our staff will understand that these decisions are made in a way that sets up both staff and campers for a successful week.

Question 8

Off-Site Day Camp

Accepted Answer

At Lutherdale, we provide a program to churches in our surrounding communities that sends 3-4 staff members to the church for the week. Staff stay in a host home for the week and lead VBS programs at the church. This is a rewarding experience that starts on Sunday Morning. Please note all staff will have one week minimum participating in the Day Camp program. If you have a certain weekend where you cannot be at camp early Sunday Morning, please keep this program in mind.

Question 9

Cabin Leader Daily Life

Accepted Answer

7:00 am – Optional Polar Plunge or Farm Visit
 Start the day with a refreshing dip in the lake (for the brave ones!) or head to the farm to feed the goats, chickens, and sheep.
7:45 am – Alphas (Morning Devotions)
 Gather with all of camp for a quick devotion to center your day.
8:00 am – Breakfast
 Share a meal with campers and staff.
8:45 am – Staff Meeting
 Check in with leadership and get updates for the day.
9:15 am – Morning Worship
 Sing, worship, and set the tone for the day together. Led by a different team of staff each day.
10:00 am – Bible Study
 Lead or support small-group Bible study with your cabin.
10:45 am – Activities By Choice *
 Lead wacky, creative games and activities such as coordinating a flash mob, fishing on the dock, or help campers practice their aim at the archery range.
12:00 pm – Lunch
 Enjoy a meal and community time with your cabin.
1:00 pm – FOB (Flat on Back / Rest Hour)
 Supervise campers during quiet time to recharge.
1:30–4:30 pm – Activity Blocks *
 Rotate through activities—waterfront, crafts, canteen, environmental education, or special programs. Cabin leaders support, cheer on, and join in!
5:30 pm – Dinner
 Fuel up and share stories from the day.
6:30 pm – Cabin Cleaning
 Clean up your space and compete to earn the Golden Plunger!
7:00-8:00 pm – Evening Program
 Water Carnival, Talent Show, Beach Party, or special theme night—every evening looks different.
8:15 pm – Snack
 A quick bite before closing out the night.
8:30 pm – Campfire
 Songs, skits, s’mores, and reflections under the stars. Led by campers and planned as a cabin.
9:30 pm – Omegas (Evening Devotions) & Lights Out
 Close the day with cabin devotions and prayers before campers head to sleep.

*During ABC's and Activity Blocks, cabin leaders have 1-2 hours off per day to rest and recharge.

Question 10

Coordinator Daily Life

Accepted Answer

7:45 am – Alphas (Morning Devotions)
 Gather with all of camp and help lead a morning devotion one day each week.
8:00 am – Breakfast
 Share a meal with campers and staff. 
8:45 am – Staff Meeting
 Check in with all camp staff and give updates for the day for your program area.
9:15 am – Morning Worship
 Sing, worship, and set the tone for the day together. Led by a different team of staff each day.
10:00 am – Prep Program Area
While campers are in bible study, coordinators are setting up their activity spaces or their ABC that they will lead.
10:45 am – Activities By Choice *
 Lead wacky, creative games and activities such as coordinating a flash mob, fishing on the dock, or help campers practice their aim at the archery range.
12:00 pm – Lunch
 Enjoy a meal and community time with your cabin.
1:00 pm – FOB (Flat on Back / Rest Hour)
 Supervise campers during quiet time to recharge.
1:30–4:30 pm – Activity Blocks *
 Rotate through activities—waterfront, crafts, canteen, environmental education, or special programs. Coordinators take the lead in this time and lead their area.
5:30 pm – Dinner
 Fuel up and share stories from the day.
6:30 pm – Prep for Evening Program
 While campers are cleaning their cabins, coordinators set up for the evening activity.
7:00-8:00 pm – Evening Program
 Water Carnival, Talent Show, Beach Party, or special theme night—every evening looks different.
8:15 pm – Snack
 A quick bite before closing out the night.
8:30 pm – Campfire
 Songs, skits, s’mores, and reflections under the stars. Led by campers and planned as a cabin. Coordinators divide and head to different campfires to support.
9:30 pm – Omegas (Evening Devotions) & Lights Out
 Close the day with cabin devotions and prayers before campers head to sleep. If you are sleeping in a cabin, you'll join in. Otherwise, you head to bed for a staff devotion and lights out!

*During ABC's and Activity Blocks, coordinators have 1-2 hours off per day to rest and recharge.

Question 11

Community Staff Daily Life

Accepted Answer

Community Staff Schedules look very different depending on the hours the staff works. Most, if not all, community staff work hourly and help with activities. A typical work day would look like this:

9:00 am – Staff Meeting
 Join staff meeting to hear updates for the day.
9:15 am – Morning Worship
 Sing, worship, and set the tone for the day together. Led by a different team of staff each day.
10:00 am – Set up ABC's
 Help Coordinators set up ABC activities and prepare to hand out sign up sheets.
10:45 am – Activities By Choice 
 Support staff and help lead wacky, creative games and activities such as coordinating a flash mob or fishing on the dock.
12:00 pm – Lunch
 Enjoy a meal and community time with campers.
1:00 pm – FOB (Flat on Back / Break Time)*
 All staff under 18 get at 30 minute break during the day.
1:30–4:30 pm – Activity Blocks 
 Lead the buddy board, help in arts and crafts, run the canteen (camp store), or support at the ropes course.
4:30 pm – End of Day
 Community staff stop in the office to fill out a daily timesheet before heading home.

Question 12

What is the time commitment?

Accepted Answer

Most staff work the full summer season (typically late May through mid-August). We may have shorter options available depending on your role, ask us if you have a conflict!

Question 13

What about the pay?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Staff receive a stipend, plus housing, meals, and training. While it’s not a “get rich” summer job, the experience, friendships, and growth are priceless. Weekly jobs (those not hourly) start at $400 per week with increases for Coordinators, Lifeguards, and staff with provided certifications.

Question 14

Do I have to have previous camp experience to work here?

Accepted Answer

Not at all! Many of our staff are brand new to camp. We’ll provide all the training you need to feel confident leading and supporting campers.

Question 15

What if I don't have all the skills listed in the application?

Accepted Answer

That’s okay! We’re looking for people who are caring, enthusiastic, and willing to learn. Tje skills list is just a snapshot of what might be useful, not a requirement.

Question 16

Where will I live during the summer?

Accepted Answer

Most staff live in cabins or staff housing. You’ll share space with other staff and campers and get to experience real camp community life. Cabin Leaders have 7-9 campers in their cabin with 1 other staff member supporting them. Coordinators will be the supporting staff in cabins, or in certain cases, will have their own housing.

Question 17

Is food included?

Accepted Answer

Yes! All your meals are provided in the dining hall or staff lounge (plus snacks). You won’t have to worry about groceries or cooking.

Question 18

Can I apply if I'm under 18?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Some roles are open to younger staff (like community staff or lifeguard positions). Coordinator and Cabin Leader roles require you to be 18 or older.

Question 19

What about international staff?

Accepted Answer

We love welcoming staff from around the world! We’ll help you navigate the visa process, travel plans, and settling into camp life. If you have a student visa and are currently studying in the US, please know we will need to tie your job to your major. This can be done for most majors, but note that your position might look a little different to fulfill those requirements.

Question 20

Do I get any job training before campers arrive?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Staff training happens before camp starts and covers everything from safety and program leadership to camper care and team building.

Question 21

Do I get any time off?

Accepted Answer

Yes! You’ll have scheduled time off each week to rest, recharge, or hang out with your fellow staff. Each day, staff will enjoy 1-2 hours off and all but 2 weekends off.

Camp starts Sunday at 12 with a staff meeting and ends Friday late-afternoon.

Question 22

What do staff do on their time off?

Accepted Answer

Staff usually hang out together. Bonfires, board games, town trips, or just resting. It’s your chance to recharge and enjoy time with friends. Staff are also welcome to head home for the weekends or have family visit camp.

Frequently Asked Questions