Pine Tree Camp’s summer staff training is underway!
“We’re so excited about the opportunities we are offering Maine people with disabilities and their families this summer,” said Pine Tree Camp Director, Dawn Willard-Robinson. “This new programming means we have added additional aspects and focus areas to our training.”
The Pine Tree Camp season is going to be a bit different this year, but the goal of keeping campers connected, active and outdoors remains steadfast. And the training reflects those goals.
“We’re using our time together to train, expand curriculum and fine tune the leadership and team-building skills needed to effectively deliver a memorable summer for all,” said Dawn. “Our training this year includes more cross-training and our curriculum teams will devote a portion of the training time to create all the resources campers and their families need for our remote Pine Tree Camp to You sessions,”
Training always begins by framing out the goals, focus and what to expect. This year, that portion was done via Zoom video conference. Next, staff started by training virtually through videos, podcasts, lectures and articles from leaders in the field. Special emphasis was placed on how to effectively work online and engage people virtually.
“We’ve fully embraced all aspects of technology to help us bring Pine Tree Camp virtually to our community,” Dawn said. “Many of our summer team members are also educators who are now experienced with virtual classrooms.”
One of Dawn’s favorite aspects of professional development is teaching staff how to break down their curriculum and activities for all ability levels.
“How do you take what you’re doing and make it for everybody?” she said. “We are always thinking about who we’re working with, their individual abilities and how we can adapt our curriculum and activities to allow full participation.”
Pine Tree Camp Adventure Day Passes, launching in July, will offer Maine people with disabilities the opportunity to visit Pine Tree Camp to participate in all of the recreational activities available on the 285-acre barrier free campus.
“Our team will be cross-trained in certifications for archery, boating, kayaking and all the specialized recreation equipment at Pine Tree Camp,” said Dawn. “We’re also focused on specific protocols for screening and cleaning. Essentially, it’s a master class in screening, cleaning and service protocols during Covid-19.”
Learn more:
Register for Pine Tree Camp to You at this link.
Reserve Pine Tree Camp Adventure Day Passes at this link.