What is the Junior Servants (JS) program?

The Junior Servants (JS) program is a volunteer program for high school aged youth that focuses on service, leadership development, spiritual growth, and fun.  The bulk of your daily schedule will include assisting in the daily chores of camp.  However, we want to make sure that you have a chance to interact with the campers and counselors of the summer camp. So, each JS is assigned to a cabin that they will assist during specific times each day.

 We want this to be some of the best times of your summerand we know that cleaning toilets, washing dishes, and doing yard work is not always the most exciting thing in the world.  Camp would be nothing if it werent for people.  So an important part of the two weeks is about that, developing relationships with God and others through the time spent here. There will be Bible Study, recreational, and team-building activities scheduled into your day.

 The bonus is that the more years you come back, the more opportunities that you will have to spend with campers.  The first year you will be considered a JS1 and will spend at least 2 hours each day with a cabin group.  Prove yourself a valuable volunteer in your first year and you can apply to return as a JS2 and spend at least 4 hours with a cabin group while still building great relationships and memories with other high school volunteers from around the Great Lakes region of the United States.  Spending a majority of your day with campers will be a significant part of the JS3 and JS4 experiences. 

What do I get out of this? 

The list is great.  First off, you get a t-shirt that is designed specially for those in the JS program.  Nobody else gets em.  You also will receive a $15 credit for items that can be purchased at the canteen or t-shirt room while you spend your time here. Upon completing two weeks as a JS you will have gained valuable work experience that can be significant for you in seeking employment in the future.  Room and board is also included. To top it all off, hours of great memories and growth that will last a lifetime are yours for the taking.

How much does this cost? 

That is one of the best parts of all of this ITS FREE!!!  JSs are a crucial part of the success of our summer camp program and we want to show our appreciation of your volunteer service by making this available to you at no cost.

How many JSs are in a group?

We are limited to nine JSs per session.  Each group will work with our college-aged JS Leader in task assignments as well as spiritual growth and recreational opportunities.

Can I request to be with my friend?

You may, although it may not work out for you to come together. Because of a limited number of spaces, groups may need to be separated.  Many have found that they gain a more full experience when they go without a friend and have a great chance to meet new friends as they learn to work together.

How are JSs selected?

After the March 2nd deadline passes, we review all of the applications to verify that the candidates are suitable volunteers.  We will begin filling the JS4 spots and work our way to the JS1 spots.  We desire to have multiple levels at each JS Session.  We start with the older applicants of each level and then place the applicants based on the date the application was received, session preferences, and gender (for housing availability). Also, the quality of your application responses is a consideration in your acceptance.

How long is each session? 

It varies slightly, based on camp programs offered on weekends.  However, most programs are 12 or 14 days long.  The schedule is as follows: 

• Session A:   June 2-14

• Session B:   June 14-June 28

• Session C:   June 28-July 10

• Session D:   July 12-July 26

• Session E:   July 26-August 7

Who is eligible?

Anyone who has finished at least 9th grade by June of 2009 may apply to be a JS1. Those who have been a JS1, JS2, or JS3 in 2008 may apply to be a JS2, JS3 and JS4, respectively, for 2009.  Completion of one session does not guarantee that you will be automatically promoted to the next level.

How do I apply?

Download an application here or call 260.636.7101.  Complete it and send it in by March 2, 2009. Do it carefully and quickly though, as the sooner you return your application the greater the opportunity you have to be selected for your desired session.  Mail your application in to:  Camp Lutherhaven, 1596 S. 150 W., Albion, IN 46701.  Or you can fax it to us at 260.636.3032.

When will I find out?

Notification will be mailed or emailed to all applicants on or near March 16, 2009. 

Can my friends apply too?

Yes!  Please feel free to copy all the information in the packet and distribute it as you see fit.  OR, send them here where they can also download an application.  Just make sure that you get your applications in early and at least by March 2nd.

What if I have any other questions?

Email Celine (celine@lutherhaven.org) or Don (don@lutherhaven.org) or give us a call at the camp office, 260.636.7101.  We'd be happy to help you with any questions.