Summer Camp Frequently Asked Questions
How much does this event cost? $125 per session (see below for information about a discounted early registration rate)
Is there financial assistance for camp? Yes, the Mountains to Sound Greenway Trust is offering a limited amount of financial assistance - which reduces the program fee to $50 - to campers who show financial need and a dedication to the environment. Download Financial Assistance Application (pdf).
Is this an overnight program?
No, these events will run from 9-3 daily. Parents must be prepared to pick up youth at 3p.m. every day.
When will I get more information about the camp? We will mail you a packet in May with the following items (if you register after May, your packet will arrive in 2-3 weeks after registration): background information about the project, driving directions, a list of what to wear/bring, parent/guardian permission form (needs to be returned before camp) and participant agreement form (ditto).
Why does the project location say TBD? We are still working hard to identify the best project sites for our summer camp sessions. Once we have a confirmed location we will update the website and notify any participants who have already registered. Until then, we list the approximate region for the camp (ex: Issaquah Area Trails means the location will be a short driving distance from Issaquah).
The session I signed up for is full. Is there a waiting list? Yes, campers will be placed on the waiting list in the order they register. Once a spot opens up, the Greenway Trust Volunteer Program will contact you.
Do I have to attend everyday of the multi-day event I sign up for?
We highly recommend participants come out and work with us everyday to get the full experience.
What do I need to bring to camp?
Volunteers always need to bring a daypack, sack lunch, water, and a pair of gloves if you have some. You must also dress appropriately which means wearing jeans or work pants (no shorts or capris allowed), a long-sleeved layer, waterproof rain gear and sturdy shoes. Tennis shoes are usually okay for restoration projects but for trail work leather above-the-ankle boots are required! See the summer camp gear list for more information. The Mountains to Sound Greenway has a limited number of hiking boots to lend out if needed. Contact the volunteer office for more details. We provide all the tools and project materials, and have some gloves to loan out.
What are we going to be doing at summer camp?
You will be exploring new areas, learning land stewardship skills, making new friends, and having fun in the Greenway! See an example outline of summer camp projects and activities for more details. The best way to prepare yourself for summer camp is to try out one of our weekend volunteer events first.
What is your refund policy? The Mountains to Sound Greenway Trust will offer a full refund to anyone that cancels at least 30 days before the start of their session. A half refund will be given to anyone who cancels at least 14 days prior to the start of their session. No refund will be given to anyone that cancels within 13 days to the start of their session.
Is lunch provided?
No. Please bring your own lunch and water to the site. We will provide additional snacks throughout the day.
I filled out a youth waiver last time. Do I have to do it again?
Yes! It’s critical for us to have complete medical information on hand for each minor at every project in case of an emergency. For summer camp we have a special waiver form. You will receive the waiver with your registration packet.
Does this work count as community service?
Yes! It’s hard to believe, isn’t it. Even though it's fun, the time you donate to us can be used for 33.75 hours of community service credit for school or other requirements. The Mountains to Sound Greenway Trust is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.
How can I get academic credit for volunteering?
Because each school has different rules about service learning, check with your instructor or service learning coordinator. If you've met the requirements, we'll be happy to provide you with a letter or sign-off on any paperwork they require.
Who will be running the project? What kind of qualifications or background do they have?
All youth summer events are lead by Greenway Staff members and our AmeriCorps partners from Washington Conservation Corps. All staff have, at minimum, Wilderness First Aid and CPR training, as well as training on running safe and fun volunteer events for youth.
What about transportation?
Unless the student already has a driver's license, parents must drop off and pick up students each day at the meeting site. This means you must drop your student off no later than the start time and arrive to pick him/her up no later than the end time (15 minutes early is preferable both for pick up and drop off). We will send you directions to the sites along with the confirmation and full details of the event in your registration packet. Parents must be available by phone at all times in case of an emergency.
How do I get your early registration deal?
The early registration rate of $100 per session applies only to participants who have been officially registered for a summer camp series and payment has been received by April 15, 2011. Registration and/or payment received after April 15th will be charged the normal rate of $125 per session. The early registration rate does not apply to participants who move off a waitlist onto the enrollment list after April 15th.
More questions? Visit our regular volunteer events FAQ page, or contact Volunteer Program Staff at volunteer@mtsgreenway.org or 206.812.0122
