What to Expect

Each six-day session or weekend session at Camp Sunshine requires approximately 75 - 85 volunteers. We strive to provide a ratio of 1 volunteer for every 2 campers. Volunteers can help to be part of this wonderful experience for children and their families.

Volunteers range in age from 16*- 80 and come from throughout the United States and from various foreign countries. Full-time and part-time volunteer positions are available.

While each volunteer's experience at Camp Sunshine is unique, there is a universal sense that this is a profoundly rewarding experience.

Volunteers are needed in the following areas:
  • Nursery (ages 0-2)
  • Tot lot (ages 3-5)
  • Children (ages 6-8)
  • Older children (ages 9-12)
  • Teens (ages 13-18)
  • Adults
  • Arts and crafts
  • Food service
  • Marina, beach & pool
  • Lifeguards
  • Photographer
  • Housekeeping
  • Grounds, Maintenance, Etc.

Each session has a specific illness focus and currently includes:

  • Oncology
  • Brain Tumor
  • Retinoblastoma
  • Fanconi Anemia
  • Diamond-Blackfan Anemia
  • Shwachman-Diamond Syndrome
  • Dyskeratosis Congenita
  • Lupus
  • Sickle Cell Anemia
  • Solid Organ Transplant
  • Renal Disease
  • Oncology Off-Treatment
  • Bereavement
  • To help kids be kids and families be families.
  • Each group at camp has a mix of children living with a life-threatening illness and siblings.
  • The volunteer's role varies from working directly with kids in a group setting to supportive positions such as: working in the kitchen, activities window, arts & crafts, maintenance areas, or at the marina.
  • Each volunteer area has a lead counselor to provide guidance to each volunteer.
  • Volunteer schedules vary slightly depending on assignment area.
  • 8:00-9:00 Breakfast.
  • 9:00-12:00 Activities for kids and parents include Canoeing, Kayaking, Paddleboating, Swimming, Archery, Ping pong, Arts and Crafts, Whiffleball, Kickball, Volleyball, Computer time, and Parent /Kids group sessions.
  • 12:00-1:00 Lunch.
  • 1:00-2:00 Rest period for younger campers and parents.
  • 1:15-5:00 Activities (see morning options).
  • 5:30-6:30 Dinner.
  • 7:00-9:00 Evening activities: Musical Entertainment, Pool, Activities, Group Bonfire, Talent Night, and Celebration Show.
  • On-site housing is provided with preference given to those volunteers able to commit to a full session.
  • Volunteers are required to share a two-room, 5 bed suite with private bath with 1-4 other volunteers.
  • Camp strives to make age-compatible matching in rooming assignments, but this is not guaranteed.
  • Volunteer couples may room together when space allows.
  • Bring your own bed linens and towels.
  • All meals are provided.
  • Bring snacks (popcorn, soda, bottled water, granola bars, etc). Each room has a small refrigerator and microwave. PLEASE NOTE: We are a peanut free campus. Please do not bring any snacks that contain peanuts.
  • DEET-free insect repellent, sunscreen lotion, and a hat.
  • Volunteers are provided with one yellow volunteer shirt. This shirt identifies you and should be worn every day that you are on duty. Extra shirts are available at a cost of $7.00.
  • Most volunteers wear comfortable shorts or pants. Footwear should be comfortable with most people wearing sneakers or sandals.
  • Bring a flashlight and extra batteries.
  • Bring your smile and sense of humor.
  • Food service volunteers are required to wear closed toe shoes.
  • Mandatory half-day orientation prior to the families’ arrival.
  • Overview of the session schedule and activities.
  • Medical and Psychosocial overview.
  • Specific illness-related information.
  • Updates on Camp policies and regulations.
  • Tours available.

*Volunteers 16 and 17 years of age staying overnight at Camp Sunshine must be accompanied by an adult chaperone 21 years or older who is also volunteering.