The camp program is a very busy week, but provides volunteers an amazing experience and opportunity!
Please read the following before submitting your application:
Volunteers at Camp Wendake make camp a memorable experience for the campers. We would love to have you join us to be part of this amazing experience that helps change lives for the better!
Each year around 40 volunteers come together to make Camp Wendake possible. This is only possible with the support of individuals that possess a wide array of skills and knowledge.
Camp Wendake is a fairly rustic facility, in order to volunteer you will be walking/working in an area that is uneven at times, and there is a fair amount of walking to get around. The volunteer cabins do not have running water and we use shared washroom facilities.
Volunteers arrive to camp a day or two before campers in order to prepare the campground. This time will be spent cleaning your area of work, moving supplies from our storage facility, participating in volunteer orientation and development, and getting to know your fellow volunteers.
Each day you can expect to have at least our hours of direct camper impact; this will usually be related to your position at camp, but you may be asked to help out in other areas if needed. All volunteers (except the kitchen team) must sign up for at least three dishwashing duties.
Volunteers cannot bring their children or family members (who are not also volunteering).
Please see our Code of Conduct for a full list of expectations.
Camp provides opportunities for individuals seeking one of the following volunteer positions:
Cabin Leaders help create a safe, welcoming space for up to 10 campers and their families. They serve as a key support throughout the week; answering questions, building connections, and helping campers feel at home.
In addition to daily guidance and encouragement, Cabin Leaders also take the lead in organizing their cabin during emergencies, ensuring everyone’s safety and well-being.
This role is perfect for compassionate, dependable individuals who want to make a meaningful impact.
The Nursing Team plays a crucial role in maintaining the health and safety of everyone at camp. They provide daily care, monitor ongoing health needs, and respond to any medical concerns, crises, or emergencies that may arise.
All nurses must be registered with the College of Nurses of Ontario and be prepared to offer compassionate and professional care.
The Kitchen Team keeps camp running with delicious, nourishing meals for all campers and volunteers. Their responsibilities include food preparation, cooking, and maintaining a clean, organized kitchen and food storage areas, following proper food safety standards. Certification as an Ontario Food Handler is required; raining is available through Camp Wendake if needed.
If you enjoy working behind the scenes to support others, this is a rewarding way to make a big impact!
The Dish Pit Team is essential to keeping the kitchen running smoothly. They ensure a steady supply of clean dishes, pots, pans, and utensils for every meal.
In addition to washing up, they support the Kitchen Team by maintaining clean floors and helping uphold sanitary standards throughout the kitchen and dining areas.
This behind-the-scenes role is perfect for team players who take pride in keeping things spotless and running efficiently.
The Dining Hall Team helps create a clean, welcoming space for every meal. They’re responsible for setting up and tearing down the dining area, restocking refreshments, and ensuring everything is ready for campers and volunteers to enjoy their meals.
They also help keep the space tidy by sweeping, mopping, and maintaining overall cleanliness throughout the day.
If you enjoy creating order and working as part of a team, this role is a great fit!
The Maintenance Team helps keep camp safe, clean, and running smoothly. Their work includes general upkeep of the grounds and buildings, minor repairs, waste management, and addressing issues as they arise.
They work closely with on-site staff to ensure all facilities are well-maintained and ready for use by campers and volunteers.
This role is ideal for hands-on helpers who take pride in creating a safe and functional environment for everyone.
Lifeguards are responsible for ensuring safety at the waterfront during designated beach hours. They supervise all swimming activities, enforce safety rules, and respond quickly in emergencies with rescue skills and first aid as needed.
All Lifeguards must hold a National Lifeguard certification (Pool or Waterfront) and Standard First Aid with CPR C to provide professional and effective care. Assistance is available if requested.
By maintaining a watchful, trained presence, lifeguards help create a fun and secure environment where campers and volunteers can enjoy the water with confidence.
The Program Team designs, implements, and manages the wide variety of activities that bring camp to life. From recreation, arts & crafts, and music to water activities, off-site outings, evening events, and specialty programs; they create a diverse and exciting schedule for campers of all ages.
Their goal is to offer a rich, engaging experience with multiple activity options each day, ensuring every camper finds something meaningful and fun to enjoy.
The Arts and Crafts Team leads creative activities for children and adults, from fun projects in the Craft Cabin to our popular t-shirt tie-dying. They encourage campers to express themselves and explore their creativity in a supportive environment.
This team also collaborates with the Program Team to gather and prepare all necessary supplies before camp begins.
The Family Program Team creates fun and engaging activities for families, including sports, crafts, and games. They focus on providing daily activities that keep children and parents entertained and involved. This role is perfect for caring individuals with a natural passion for working with children and a genuine desire to support their growth and enjoyment.
The Care Team is dedicated to nurturing the emotional and spiritual well-being of everyone throughout the week. They offer compassionate one-on-one support, listening and providing encouragement to those who need it. Additionally, the team leads the opening and closing ceremonies, as well as hosting the morning circle that sets the tone for each day at camp.
Specialty Volunteers bring unique skills and talents to enrich the camp experience. Whether you’re a massage therapist, reiki or yoga practitioner, archery coach, hair stylist, artist, or have another special skill, your expertise can create memorable moments for campers.
Volunteers in this role may join us for a day or longer, sharing their gifts to inspire, entertain, and support campers in meaningful ways.
Behind every successful camp is a dedicated team working to make it all happen. Our Camp leadership team ensures that every detail is planned, every camper is supported, and every day runs smoothly. Roles on the leadership team include the Camp Leaders, Camp Registrar and Camp Coordinators.
Fundraisers help make camp possible, turning compassion into action. By organizing events, reaching out to donors, or sharing our story, you help raise the funds that ensure every camper has an opportunity to participate.
No experience is needed, just a passion to help and a willingness to get involved. We’ll provide the tools and support you need.
Please Contact Us if you are interested.
Governance Committee members play a key role in shaping the future of our camp. This team is responsible for maintaining camp in the off season, evaluating performance, and guiding best practices, assisting with fundraising, and attending events from supporting groups. If you have experience in leadership, non-profit work, or simply a deep commitment to our cause, this is a meaningful way to make a lasting impact.
Please Contact Us if you are interested.
At the heart of our summer camp is a simple truth: volunteers make it all possible. For one unforgettable week, children and adults living with HIV/AIDS come together to laugh, connect, and experience the joy of community, and it's the compassion, energy, and dedication of our volunteers that bring it all to life.
Whether you're helping with daily activities, leading games, serving meals, or simply offering a listening ear, your presence makes a lasting impact. This isn't just about giving your time, it's about giving hope, creating joy, and reminding every camper that they are seen, valued, and not alone.
No special skills are required, just an open heart, a willingness to help, and a spirit ready to make memories. Join us, and be part of something truly meaningful.
Become a volunteer; make a difference; change a life; maybe even your own...