Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where is the University of Maine 4-H Camp & Learning Center at Bryant Pond?
Our camp and learning center are situated in Bryant Pond Village, nestled within the town of Woodstock, in western Maine. You’ll find us just 6 miles south of Bethel, conveniently located off Route 26, overlooking the serene shores of Lake Christopher.Surrounding us are hiking trails that reveal stunning mountain vistas, offering an adventurer’s paradise. And if that’s not enough, the magic of the ocean is only an hour and a half away.
Where do the campers come from?
Our campers come from all corners of the country, with a predominant number originating from the Northeastern United States. A significant portion of our campers calls New England home.
If I were to join as a Field teacher or Counselor, what would my role entail?
Counselors at our camp play a pivotal role, holding one of the most significant positions. Your responsibilities would involve co-leading a group of approximately 6-12 campers within a specific age range throughout their week-long stay. Each counselor pair is assigned a unique program for the week, ensuring continuity with the same group of kids. From waking them up to guiding activities and tucking them in at night, you would be their leader and mentor. We make an effort to pair counselors with compatible co-leaders, considering their skills and interests. Expect a dynamic experience, with both your program and co-leaders changing each week.
What if I don’t have a specific skill but simply adore working with kids?
Not an issue at all! Numerous first-year staff members come in without a specific outdoor skill but excel in engaging with children. Our staff training will equip you with various new skills, but the crucial aspect is having a genuine passion for working with children.
Is the UMaine 4-H Camp & Learning Center at Bryant Pond competitive?
We pride ourselves on fostering diversity and aim to cultivate an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. Our focus is on ensuring that every individual feels at ease, with instructional approaches tailored to provide a bit more challenge for those seeking it and accommodating children who may be less experienced. Throughout each activity or lesson, we prioritize participation and emphasize the importance of environmental stewardship. Our commitment is to ensure that every camper has the chance to shine and discover their unique “place” at camp because, ultimately, “Camp is for the Camper.”
What about time off and free time?
Camp counselors are typically scheduled to work from approximately 11:30 a.m. on Sunday through 2:00 p.m. on Friday each camp week. Unless scheduled for one of our 2 or 4-week programs, counselors will be assigned a morning or afternoon 4-hour break block during the week. Additionally, they will receive a one-hour break on days not scheduled for the longer break (Monday-Thursday). The scheduling of breaks may vary from program to program, and we appreciate our staff’s flexibility in this regard.
Concerned about dress and personal appearance?
Staff shirts are a must on designated “Parent Days,” which include Sunday for registration and Friday for pick-up. Your personal presentation is vital, reflecting neatness, modesty, and good taste. Attire should be reasonably clean and devoid of excessive stains or rips/frays. Standard footwear includes sneakers or hiking boots, with sandals or bare feet only permissible during waterfront activities. In essence, attire should align with your activity. A tidy appearance is expected for all counselors and staff. Attire featuring violence, alcohol, tobacco, or drug references is prohibited. Backless or strapless shirts, halter tops, and bare midriffs are not allowed. Male staff should wear a shirt for all activities except swimming, and pants should be appropriately worn at the waist.
Where would I stay during my employment?
Our team members reside in various cabins and lodging setups, encompassing larger cabins shared with colleagues, as well as accommodations in our bunkhouse or lodge. Housing arrangements fluctuate on a weekly basis, depending on group assignments. Team members aged 18 and above have the option to stay on-site during weekends when not on duty.
Is the camp one big group?
The UMaine 4-H Camp & Learning Center at Bryant Pond is structured into distinct programs, each offering activities aligned with its specific focus. While certain events, such as Thursday’s cookout and campfire, bring all participants together, there are instances where only a particular group engages in specific activities, like the Wilderness Survival fire building.
The camp operates under the guidance of several Directors who oversee overall operations, program management, and the supervision of both staff and campers. Within each program, two field teachers/counselors are assigned to oversee groups of up to 12 campers. The counselors are supported by program coordinators who possess specialized skills tailored to the unique requirements of each program, such as oversight of our shooting sports program, administering hunter safety training, lifeguarding and more.
Is the camp co-ed?
At Bryant pond our programs are designed to be inclusive, welcoming everyone to participate. It’s worth noting that accommodations for participants are separate.
Are you wondering if there’s a designated space for staff to unwind on campus?
Living alongside a group of children is indeed demanding. While on-campus staff-only spaces are limited, our expansive 200 acres of land provide numerous opportunities for finding a peaceful retreat. Your free time is entirely yours to enjoy. If officially off duty and 18 years or older (or with parental permission), you have the option to leave campus. Nearby towns offer amenities like movie theaters, cafes and specialty foods, providing a variety of options for relaxation and enjoyment.
What about smoking or drinking?
It’s crucial to emphasize that the use or possession of drugs or alcohol on camp premises, as well as returning to camp under the influence of any such substance, is cause for immediate dismissal. Additionally, the use of any form of tobacco is strictly prohibited at camp.
Wondering about the camp food?
It’s fantastic! We strive to meet special dietary needs and offer an extensive salad bar with fruit during lunch, ensuring a diverse range of options at most meals. Our meals are skillfully prepared by our experienced cooks who take pride in sustaining our camp community. Many campers and staff depart the UMaine 4-H Camp & Learning Center at Bryant Pond, echoing that the food experience was a highlight of their time here.
It sounds good, but really how much work is it?
Camp is not just about fun; it’s also incredibly demanding. Campers enroll for durations of one, two, or four weeks, depending on the program, and our commitment to them is around the clock. If you’re interested in joining our staff, carefully consider the information provided here and complete the online application. Submit it, and we will promptly reach out to discuss position availability and arrange a personal interview or zoom conference regarding the prospect of becoming a member of the field staff at the UMaine 4-H Camp & Learning Center at Bryant Pond.
If you have a genuine love for children and believe in their incredible potential, if you take pride in yourself and the skills you bring, and if you thrive in a wholesome outdoor environment, embracing an active and enthusiastic approach to life, then the UMaine 4-H Camp & Learning Center at Bryant Pond might just be the perfect place to make your summer home.