FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About Hopewell
How is the health of my child cared for?
A health history is required for every camper and a health screening is done after arrival at camp. All medications brought to camp are kept safely in the Health Center and dispensed by our Health Care Manager. A physical exam by a physician is recommended but not required. Our Health Care Manager works under the direction of our camp physician who is on call. Baptist Memorial Hospital is only 15 minutes away. Basic accident and illness insurance is carried on all campers. All camp staff are certified in first aid and CPR. Parents or guardians will be called in the event of any illness or injury that warrants the attention of the doctor.
How are staff selected and supervised?
All counselors are 18 years old or older. Most have completed one or more years of college. All have a firm Christian faith. All prospects complete a written application, are interviewed by a director, and undergo a background check. For some positions, like lifeguards, we require proof of certification and require a skills test performed at Hopewell. For other positions, such as Challenge Course Lead, we require special training and review skills on our course. All staff are required to attend two weeks of counselor’s training. A director is at camp during all camp sessions. Staff is observed daily. The directors conduct formal performance reviews. Site Director, Darren Ashmore and his wife, Program Director, Allyson Ashmore live with their children at the campsite and share responsibilities for care of campers and staff.
Are scholarships available?
Many churches support the camp experience by paying some or all of the fee for their members. Hopewell has a scholarship fund to give additional support when needed. Call or write to request a scholarship application.
May siblings or friends come together?
YES! Even though camp programs are separated by age and special interests, there is something for all ages almost every week. There is also a family discount. The oldest camper pays the full fee, and younger siblings will each get $10 off their fee. We try to honor requests for a cabin mate. We ask that you only request ONE cabin mate. It may be impossible to put multiple requests all together.
May I visit?
Experience has shown that visits during a 6-day camp can detract from the child’s experience and often will trigger missing home in other campers. We ask that parents and friends not plan on visiting during camp. If a visit is necessary, please make arrangements through the directors before arriving at camp. Upon arrival, all visitors must check in with the camp office to sign a register and receive a visitor’s pass. Anyone on the campsite without a pass will be immediately escorted to the office. No visitors are allowed on camp property after 9:00pm, except in case of an emergency.
What is the staff to camper ratio?
Our ratios for staff supervision of campers are as follows: Ages 6-9 is 1:6 (staff to camper) and ages 10-16 is 1:8.
Can my child take swimming lessons?
Swimming instruction is not a part of our camp program. Campers will be taught safety procedures for the swimming areas. They will also be oriented on swimming procedures, but will not be given formal lessons as for certification. A “Swim Check” is performed for each camper shortly after arrival at camp to assess their abilities to insure a more safe and enjoyable experience for them.