Be a Camp Volunteer!

►Camp Deans and Volunteer Camp Counselor
►Be a Shepherd

Camp Dean and Volunteer Camp Counselor

We are so excited to work alongside you for what promises to be another great summer at your camps!  Thank you so much for your gifts of time, commitment, leadership, and love with the children, youth and adults of the Dakotas and Minnesota UMC  Conferences.  There are a lot of exciting things happening in camp and retreat ministries and we're eager to share some highlights with you. 

All persons interested in serving as a camp deans/volunteer counselors in the Dakotas-Minnesota Area Camp and Retreat Ministries program are required to complete a Volunteer Application and an annual background check.  Simply Register Online for the camp you will be assisting with.  Once registered, the Volunteer Application will be available in the Online Forms section of your registration Dashboard.  This application should be completed a minimum of two weeks before camp to allow time to complete background checks.  Thank you for serving in this ministry! 

Below are  forms and helpful resources for a positive experience  at camp for you and the campers. 

Dean/Volunteer Counselor Required Documentation

The forms listed below must be completed online in order for deans and adult volunteers to serve at camp. They may be found in the Forms section of your Campwise online registration dashboard. An annual signature is required for each document.

• Volunteer Application 
  • Volunteer Dean/Leader Agreement (Signature required in the Volunteer Application via Campwise.)
  • Social Media and Communication Guidelines (Signature required in the Volunteer Application via Campwise.)
  • Child Abuse & Neglect Policy Statement and Appendix (Signature required in the Volunteer Application via Campwise.)
• Annual Background Check (Link located in the Volunteer Application)
• Dakotas-Minnesota Area ADULT Camper Medical Information Form
• Dakotas-Minnesota Area Release of Liability Waiver

Dean/Volunteer Counselor Helpful Information 

• ONLINE Program Expense Reimbursement Form or PAPER Program Expense Reimbursement Form
• Camping Mission, Core Values, and Outcomes
• Dean's Job Description
• Volunteer Camp Counselor's Job Description
• Parent-Camper Handbook
• LGBTQIA2S+ Guidelines

Be a Shepherd

Come experience the joy of camping firsthand by serving as a camp shepherd. Shepherds work alongside our camp staff and help ensure all campers have a great camp experience. Shepherds should plan to participate in all camp activities, help watch over all campers including supervising cabin time, and assist staff and deans as needed. Whenever possible, shepherds will be placed in overnight cabins with the child/children they’re bringing to camp. However, when moms come with sons and dads with daughters, or if additional staff of the same gender is needed to meet required supervision ratios, shepherds may be placed in sleeping rooms away from their own child/children.

Questions? Please contact the site at which you would like to serve as a shepherd. 

All shepherds must register at least seven days prior to the beginning of camp to ensure all necessary documentation is complete, including a required annual background check.

There are a maximum number of shepherds for each camp. So, please register early. The fee for shepherds is $100.00.

2025 Summer Curriculum - Another Way

Jesus often confronted the world around him with another way of being and by his example, we are reminded that God always invites us to reimagine who we are and how we do things. Being at camp, we are already finding another way, apart from the trappings and distractions of home. In the peace of this space, we will explore what would change if we lived as our authentic selves and respected the truths of others. In this humility, we will imagine how growing changes the way we live. In this potential for transformation, we will imagine how our personal change meets the change we seek in the world. Whether we are addressing unfair rules or dreaming of a time when all people belong, we know that God calls us to do a new thing and faithfully forge another way. 

What you will find in Another Way

Another Way all-inclusive summer camp curriculum includes materials for a full week's worth of activities for different age levels. You'll find:

• Bible study and community building activities for five age groups
• Separate worship resources designed specifically for children and youth
• Activity sheets to send home with campers for engaging families
• “Letters from Camp” – templates you can adapt and send out to campers and families all year long
• Crafts, games, science and nature, multi-day projects, challenges and group building, and much more!

Daily Overview for Another Way

Day 1    Psalm 46:1-3, 10 (NRSV)     Be Still                               

• Offer space to unplug, center ourselves, and begin self-reflection.
• Share about God’s steadfast presence in and with everyone.
• Seek to create a refuge in the camp community.
• Ponder when we have or have not felt God’s presence in times of change or trouble.

Day 2    Luke 18:9-14     Get Real     Pharisee and Tax Collector       

• Invite a release from the pressures and challenges of sharing our authentic selves.
• Explore the relationship between humility and judgment for ourselves and others.
• Reflect on assumptions and expectations around piety and faithfulness.
• Examine God’s grace for all people, including ourselves.

Day 3    Acts 9:1-22     Know and Grow     Saul and Ananias          

• Name how big and small discoveries can be a revelation from God.
• Imagine how past experiences can lead us to change and grow.
• Reflect on the challenges created by living into a new identity or self-perception.
• Explore how changing ourselves impacts our relationship with God and others.

Day 4    Matthew 3:1-6     Wild Ideas     John the Baptist             

• Consider the multiple influences and voices in our lives.
• Share what bold or unique voices inspire us.
• Discern how we recognize God’s voice within and around us.
• Affirm the voices within ourselves that call us to live in new ways.
• Explore what it means to “prepare a way” for God. 

Day 5    Numbers 27:1-8, 11b     Change the Rules     Daughters of Zelophehad          

• Discuss how rules can change to meet all people’s needs.
• Inspire each other to find the courage to confront injustice.
• Explore what it takes to create change in the world.
• Imagine who we might work with to be leaders of change.        

Day 6    Acts 10:1-36     All In     Peter and Cornelius’ Dreams  

• Invite campers to share their dreams with others.
• Courageously confront our biases that label others as “bad” or “unclean”.
• Embrace new community practices that reflect God’s radically inclusive love.
• Explore how shared time, space, and dreams build relationships.
• Acknowledge all are welcome to Christ’s table.

Day 7    Isaiah 43:19-21     Go!                      

• Prepare campers to recognize God doing new things.
• Be empowered to live and lead in new ways.
• Be assured God is always moving and making changes.
• Become partners with God in the new things that will happen in the world.     

If you would like the current curriculum and resources, please contact the site where you will be volunteering!

Camper Safety is a Top Priority    

Camper health and safety and overall program quality are very important to us, and very important to parents. ACA is a rigorous accreditation process that helps us go above and beyond with our commitment to providing you with the best experience possible.

United Methodist Church Partnership

The Dakotas Camp and Retreat ministry is part of the ministry of the Dakotas Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church. With two camps in South Dakota and one in North Dakota, we offer Christian hospitality and places apart where all individuals may experience God’s grace and love, and grow in discipleship. Close friendships and Christian community typically grow quickly at camp where lives are positively transformed.

In addition, we partner with local churches as we work together to continue to grow disciples and leaders that are making a difference in their schools, churches, and communities. Thank you for the prayers and support as we continue the journey of making disciples for Jesus Christ.

What is a Camp Ambassador?

A Camp Ambassador is a key partner in the ministry of camp—helping children, youth, and families in their local churches connect with life-changing experiences at Dakotas United Methodist Camps and throughout our camp and retreat ministries.

Ambassadors are the link between camp and church, serving as a spokesperson, connector, and encourager. They help spread the word, answer questions, and make sure everyone hears about the opportunities to grow in Christ, Creation, and Community through camp.

Ways to share as a Camp Ambassador:

- Host a Camp Sunday with your church - share stories, invite campers to speak, and celebrate what God is doing through camp. 
- Set a goal for camp participation and help find ways to support campers financially. 
- Share camp news in bulletins, newsletters, announcements, and conversations. 
- Talk about camp during Sunday School, youth group, or wherever people gather. 
- Answer questions, offer encouragement, and help families register for camp.

Camp Ambassador Resources

We want being a Camp Ambassador to be easy, meaningful—and fun! That’s why we’ve created a collection of helpful tools to support you:

• Camp Ambassador Guide – Your roadmap to success! Includes tips, timelines, conversation starters, and Camp Sunday planning resources.
• Camp Sunday Worship Resources – Ready-to-use materials to make your Camp Sunday inspiring and fun.
• Ambassador Contact Form – Let us know who you are so we can support you all year long.

Camp Ambassador's  Hang TEN! Incentive

Take camper Experiences to the Next level and receive TEN percent off the cost of camp!

For every *new camper you help register, you can earn 10% off one camp! Use the discount for yourself, a family member, the new camper or a different camper from your church.

There’s no limit to how many *new campers you can count – just complete the “Hang TEN!” Incentive Form to claim your discount. If you have any questions, please contact info@dakcamps.org.

* New campers are defined as those who have not been to any Dakotas United Methodist Camp events in the past three years.

Camp changes lives. As a Camp Ambassador, you’ll help others step into experiences full of joy, growth, and faith. We’re so glad you’re part of the team!

Camp Sunday: Where Church Meets Camp Vibes!

Get ready to bring the joy, adventure, and spirit of camp right into your church! Camp Sunday is a day to celebrate all things camp—think campfire-style worship (minus the actual fire, of course), energetic music, and real stories of how camp changes lives. Deck out your church with campy décor, serve up s’mores or trail mix, and dive into fun activities that showcase everything camp has to offer. Plus, it’s the perfect time to share info on camp registrations, financial support, and exciting opportunities for all ages. Whether it’s Sunday school, youth group, or the whole congregation, everyone gets a taste of that unforgettable camp magic—right at home!

Camp Sunday Worship Material

Camp Sunday Worship Service
The worship program includes call to worship, hymn suggestions, children's message, scripture, sermon ideas, prayers, invitation to communion, Invitation to offering, and a benediction. Use this program or change it to make your own!

This Camp Sunday Worship Service is based on Matthew 3: 1-6, John the Baptist Prepares the Way and the 2025 Camp Curriculum, Another Way. The curriculum explores themes around while at camp we can find another way, apart from the trappings and distractions of home. In the peace of camp, we will explore what would change if we lived as our authentic selves and respected the truths of others. Each camp day focuses on a different Old Testament or New Testament story of encountering God through Another Way. For this year’s worship, we have drawn heavily from curriculum Day 4 “Wild Ideas.”

Decoration Ideas

Promotional Materials and Social Media images​
Click on the image title to open. Once opened, to save PDF's, simply click on the download icon in the upper right-hand corner. For JPEG images, right click on the image and choose "save image as."

• Camp Sunday Talking Points
• Church Bulletin Cover (PDF) (8.5 x 11, Portrait)
• Church Bulletin Cover (JPEG)
• 2025 Camp Sunday - Social Media image Facebook Banner
• 2025 Camp Sunday - Social Media image Instagram
• 2025 Camp Sunday - PowerPoint - Slide Cover Image
• 2025 Camp Sunday - PowerPoint - Slide Background Image

Music - Song Suggestions: 

• Come Thou Long Expected Jesus (UMH #196)
• Grace Alone (TFWS #2162)
• Change My Heart O God (TFWS #2152)
• Mighty To Save  
• Build Your Kingdom (Rend Collective)
• My Lighthouse  (Rend Collective)
• Days of Elijah
• Spirit Song (UMH #347)
• Every Move I Make
• Gratitude  (Brandon Lake)
• Come As You Are (Crowder)

Spotify Playlist -for Another Way. This playlist includes contemporary Christian and secular music to play before, during, or after worship. These songs tie in with the worship program above.

Dakotas United Methodist Camps Promotional VIDEO!
Play this during announcement times at worship, on Camp Sunday, and/or during Sunday School classes! Or play the camp video of the location your campers are planning to attend by clicking on one of the following links: Lake Poinsett Camp, Wesley Acres Camp, or Storm Mountain Center.

Preparing for Camp Sunday

Set a Date

Work with your pastor(s) and education staff to find a date that works best for you. Get it on your church calendar and start promoting! Some churches make the whole service (scripture, children’s message, message, hymns) about changed lives and opportunities at camp. That is ideal, but your church may choose instead to simply make announcements, pass out information, and extend invitations.

Whatever the case, be sure to choose a Sunday when you anticipate a strong turnout.

Plan a Budget & Arrange Fundraisers

Find out how much money is set aside or available to support campers from your church. Talk to your church leaders about whether your church can contribute a portion of the cost for each child who signs up for camp. Many churches contribute 50-100% of the total cost, while others contribute a set amount per camper. Consider helping your church arrange a fundraiser to support your campers. Camp Sunday may be a great day for it! Fundraisers could involve: a dinner prepared by youth, car washes, bake sales, and any other fun opportunities you can think of.

There are also conference camp scholarships (camperships) available; to learn more about them, click here.

Request a Camp Representative

If scheduling permits, a camp representative would be happy to visit your church to assist with your Camp Sunday celebration. Please contact your closest campsite or the central camping office.

Camp representatives can provide the message/sermon, lead a time of children’s worship, share camp opportunities during a fellowship hour, provide a display in a common area, bring handouts and giveaways, or simply be present to cheer you and your church leaders on!

More posters and flyers are available upon request.

A box of brochures and promotional posters will be sent to each church in January.  For your Camp Sunday, plan to have enough brochures available for each child in your church community to receive one (plus have extras to keep on hand to pass out throughout the spring). Contact the central camping office (855) 622-1973 (toll-free) to request more brochures.

Enlist helpers.

Find a few “camp friends” within your church who might be willing to help with tasks, speak about their camping experiences, and answer questions.

Start getting the word out!

Contact (via e-mail, social media, or postal mail) every family in your congregation to let them know the dates for Camp Sunday and related fundraisers. (Check with the camping office if you would like a contact list for former campers from your church.)

Create a display in a common area where families come and go. The display should include a poster and brochures.

Promote Camp Sunday in these ways:

• Make announcements about Camp Sunday during worship.
• Create an article for church newsletter that talks about Camp Sunday
• Put information about Camp Sunday in the church bulletin and/or on screens during worship.
• Share fun camp tidbits and photos through your church’s social media platforms.

Here’s the information to share in your Camp Sunday promotions:

• Camp Sunday date.
• Need for prayers for families to become involved.
• Need for financial support for campers from your church.
• The opportunity to wear comfortable “camp” clothes to worship on Camp Sunday: jeans or shorts, camp T-shirt or sweatshirts from a previous summer, hats, etc.

Continue sharing with the congregation (through announcements, newsletter, social media, bulletin, or on screens) that Camp Sunday is coming! Remind people to wear camp clothes. Remind people to wear camp t-shirts or other camp clothing.

PREPARING YOURSELF

• Look through a copy of the camp brochure to see a list of all events offered this summer, or check out the camp and events page of our website!
• Feel free to contact Dakotas-Minnesota Area United Methodist Camps staff or staff at a specific campsite to ask questions or learn more about camp opportunities.
• Many churches choose to target 3-4 camps they feel would be a good fit for their congregations that they know would be of interest, are held at a close campsite, or perhaps where someone from their congregation is helping to lead. Targeting a handful of events can allow for churches to arrange transportation more easily and ensures that kids will be going with at least a few friends.

PREPARING FOR THE BIG DAY

Work with your pastor(s) and other worship leaders. Share with them ideas for how to incorporate Dakotas-Minnesota Area United Methodist Camps into worship on Camp Sunday through related scriptures, readings, children’s message, prayers, hymns, and songs. 

Enlist youth to read scripture or lead worship in other ways on Camp Sunday. Recruit past campers to share their experiences with the congregation (highlights, what they learned, how they grew in their faith, and what they’re looking forward to this summer.)

Decorate the church in a camping/outdoor theme. A few ideas: set up a tent in the fellowship hall, create a mock fire with a ring of rocks by the main door into the sanctuary, place a crude wooden cross on the altar, or place camp-themed centerpieces in the fellowship hall. The possibilities are endless! Look at the “Decoration Ideas” page in the Camp Sunday Worship Resources on the website for some great ideas!

Plan a camp related snack or activity.  S’more fixings, granola, trail mix, gummy worms for fishing, etc.

Consider holding a fundraiser of some type to raise money to help support campers from your church.

Most importantly, have fun!!