FAMILY GUIDE 2018 - Girl Scouts of Eastern Iowa and Western ...
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2018 FAMILY GUIDE
2018 Summer Camp
Family Handbook
Table of Contents
Welcome to Camp ...……...…….……….... 2
General Information.……....……………..... 3
Preparing for Camp ………………………….. 5
Packing for Camp………….…...….……....... 6
Packing Checklist……..…….…..……...….... 7
Health and Safety…………..…………………. 8
Camper Communication……...………….. 12
Camp Arrival and Departure…………….. 14
Transportation…………………………………. 16
Directions ……...…….......................……. 17
Map of Camp Liberty……………………….. 18
Horse Waiver ...................................... 19
High Ropes Waiver…………………………… 20
1
A Message from the Camp Director
Welcome to Camp Liberty
Welcome to another summer of wildly fun and
adventurous opportunities with Camp Liberty. From
Our Mission making new friends over S’mores, to experiencing
independence for the first time, the memories girls
Girl Scouting builds girls of Courage, Confidence
make at camp last a lifetime. The possibilities to
and Character who make the world a better place.
discover all that she can accomplish are endless and
The Girl Scout Promise I cannot wait to see her at Camp Liberty this
summer.
On my honor, I will try:
To serve God and my country, I am so excited for another year of Girl Scout Camp,
To help people at all times, where all girls share fun experiences and learn new
And to live by the Girl Scout Law. skills that only can be acquired by time spent in the
great outdoors. 2018 will mark another year of
The Girl Scout Law building our traditions and making it the best
summer yet.
I will do my best to be
honest and fair, Like last summer, as Camp Director, I have two
friendly and helpful, priorities. I will ensure that every girl, staff member,
considerate and caring, and adult who come to camp feel safe and secure in
courageous and strong, and an environment where they can try new things and
responsible for what I say and do, be themselves. Secondly, I want everyone to leave
and to camp at the end of the summer feeling like they had
respect myself and others, the time of their lives. It is all about the girls
respect authority, discovering new things, making new friends, and
use resources wisely, having FUN!
make the world a better place, and
be a sister to every Girl Scout. I look forward to making sure that your camper has
the best summer ever!
At camp girls will discover new things about
themselves and their values and use their Yours in Camping,
knowledge and skills to explore the world around
them. They will connect with new friends and caring Ashley “Chipper” Arnold
adult mentors in a safe and nurturing environment.
Girls will return to their communities prepared to
take action and make their world a better place.
2
Stacy “Truffles” Conforti - Director of Property and
General Information Outdoor Program
563-583-9169 ext. 614
CAMP CONTACTS StacyC@GirlScoutsToday.org
At Girl Scouts we strive to provide our members
with the highest level of customer service. If you CAMP LIBERTY STAFF
have any questions or concerns, please contact us
Camp staff are carefully chosen and interviewed for
immediately. their skills and abilities, belief in the ideals of Girl
For non-emergency questions or inquiries visit our Scouting, love of the outdoors, and passion for
website or contact our Customer Care team. children’s education. Many are college students, as
well as Girl Scouts and former campers. All staff
Customer Care Team complete intensive training related to their position,
800-798-0833 often including First Aid, CPR, camp craft skills, child
Info@GirlScoutsToday.org development, waterfront skills, and creative art. Girl
Scouts of Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois
During the summer camp season, you can contact a celebrates Girl Scouting’s worldwide connections by
member of the Camp Leadership Team at Camp hiring a selective group of counselors and staff from
Liberty. the United States and abroad.
Camp Liberty Office ASKING FOR HELP
563-843-2956
At Camp Liberty, every counselor, staff member,
If you are unable to reach camp in an emergency, and employee is there to help. Our goal is to
you can call the Quad City Area Leadership Center provide a safe, memorable, and happy experience
during business hours. After business hours, please for your daughter. Talk to her ahead of time about
contact the emergency answering service. asking for help when needed and how to share it
with camp staff. Remind your camper that while
Quad City Leadership Center very talented, the counselors can’t read minds and
800-798-0833 that it is okay to ask for help.
Emergency Number Similarly for parents, the staff and directors are
309-764-8833 more than happy and willing to assist in any way,
but we can’t help if we don’t know there is a
The Director of Property and Outdoor Program and problem. Please email or call if you need anything.
the Camp Director are always available to answer GROUP AGREEMENTS
questions.
Our general guidelines at camp are as follows;
Ashley “Chipper” Arnold - Camp Director
1. Be safe
563-823-9940 ext. 308
2. Be Respectful
AshleyA@GirlScoutsToday.org
3. Have fun
3
Additionally, campers will develop Group TRADING POST
Agreements with their counselors and other
campers which will determine the guideline they The Camp Liberty Trading Post is your source for
want to live by during their stay at camp. camp souvenirs, gifts, patches, T-shirts and many
other fun camp accessories! Each camper will have
In fitting with the guidelines above, Campers are
not permitted to use, or have in their possession, an opportunity to visit the Trading Post at least
tobacco, alcohol, or drugs in any form. No illegal once during her stay. She can use cash, check
and/or Program Credits to set up a Trading Post
substances will be permitted by anyone camp.
Anyone in violation of this policy or anyone account. The money will be collected at check-in
behaving in a manner that is dangerous to and logged to her account. Any funds remaining in
her account at the end of the week will be donated
themselves or others be sent home at the
to the Girl Scout Grants for Campers fund. This
guardian’s expense. If you or your camper has
specific concerns, please contact the Camp Director program helps to ensure every girl has the
prior to checking into camp opportunity to experience camp. If you prefer not
to make a donation, please let camp staff know that
NO BULLY ZONE you would like any leftover funds refunded at the
end of her session when you set up her account.
There is a zero tolerance policy for bullying at Camp Purchases at the Trading Post are strictly optional.
Liberty. Our staff is trained to watch for and detect The Trading Post will be open during camp check-
signs of bullying behavior. We encourage any girl to out on Friday for families who want an additional
share any concern she may have with the way she opportunity to purchase Camp Liberty merchandise.
or any other girl is treated while at camp. If a
camper has been bullying others while at camp they Girl Scouts of Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois is
will get sent home and their camp session will not not responsible for any items purchased at the
get refunded. Trading Post that are lost or stolen during your
camper’s stay.
INCLUSION
TREAT TOKENS
Every girl should have the chance to go to camp. If
your camper requires special accommodations The Trading Post will carry frozen treats that can be
(dietary, physical, behavioral, etc.), please contact purchased by campers during their visit. Every
us immediately so that any necessary camper will receive a token at check-in that can be
accommodations may be made prior to your redeemed at the trading post for a free frozen treat.
camper’s arrival. To discuss your camper’s special
CAMPER SURVEYS
needs, please contact Camp Director, Ashley Arnold
at AshleyA@GirlScoutsToday.org All campers will be asked to complete an evaluation
during their camp session. Parents of campers will
CAMP MERCHANDISE
also have the opportunity to complete an online
The exclusive Camp Liberty T-Shirt and Camper Care survey asking for feedback on their campers’
Packages can be ordered prior to your camper’s experience in the weeks following her session. Your
stay by updating your online camp registration prior input on the camp experience is important. This
to May 18, 2018. A wide variety of other camp information is used to make improvements. We
merchandise will be available at the Camp Liberty thank you in advance for completing this survey.
Trading Post.
4
• Homesickness is normal. Discuss what it may
PREPARING FOR CAMP feel like and suggest ways to help your camper
overcome it if she experiences it.
PREPARING YOUR CAMPER • Talk to other parents and friends who have
attended camp so you know what to expect.
One of the primary goals of resident camp is to • Write notes/letters for your camper and bring
offer progressive experiences that allow girls to them to camp to be delivered to her during the
develop new skills and confidence. Coming to camp week.
and being away from home and family for an
extended time provides a great opportunity to PREPARING YOURSELF
grow.
Check out the information available in the Camp
It is important that each camper be able to care for Guide and the family handbook. It’s totally normal
her own general well-being. While counselors are for parents and guardians to have mixed feelings
always there to support them, campers are when their camper goes away – whether it’s their
expected to eat meals, get enough sleep, shower, first time away or not. Remember, you have chosen
groom, dress themselves, and communicate with a fun and safe camp that is ACA accredited and your
camp staff. camper will be well cared for. The staff is trained to
deal with any problem from homesickness to First
Help your camper get ready for camp by being
Aid. Try not to let your camper know how much you
excited! Let her know that you want her to have fun
are going to miss her. Be strong! You don’t want her
and learn new things. Emphasize that your camper
to worry about you while she’s at camp.
is “going” to camp, instead of saying you are
“sending” her. If your camper has any anxiety about
the dark, bugs, night noises, or being away from NOTES:
home, please start preparing her for these things
now.
PREPARING FOR CAMP
• Have overnights at friends’ or relatives’ homes.
• Plan some outdoor activities as a family to get
your camper used to hot and humid weather.
• Encourage your camper to pick out her own
clothes and help with packing.
• Pick out a security item like a teddy bear or
blanket to bring.
• Help her learn how to make her bed and set
and wipe the table.
• Make sure she is comfortable doing personal
care routines like showering, brushing
teeth/hair, and dressing on her own.
5
PACKING FOR CAMP Fab Five Items
1. Water bottle
2. Sun screen
The Girl Scout Motto is “Be Prepared.” By following 3. Insect repellent
these easy tips, your camper will be prepared for 4. Rain jacket or poncho
anything during her camp adventure. 5. Flashlight
Check-In Items to keep in back pack with Fab Five.
• Pack your camper’s possessions in a duffel Do not pack away in luggage.
bag or plastic tub with a secure lid. • Medication*
• Encourage your camper to pack everything • Trading Post money (optional)
into one suitable sized container for their • Waivers if participating in equestrian or
session. This helps ensure things do not get high ropes programs.
lost.
• Mark all clothing and equipment with the ITEMS TO LEAVE AT HOME
camper’s name, including luggage or tubs.
• Food! No gum, candy, pop or snacks.
• Pack comfortable, lightweight clothing that
• Electricity is limited so do not bring
is easy to clean. Clothes WILL get dirty at
hairdryers, curling irons or other items
camp.
requiring electricity.
• Have your camper wear well fitting, sturdy
• Halter tops, tube tops, any clothing or
shoes. Campers wear socks with sturdy
equipment advertising inappropriate
shoes every day due to the poison ivy,
material.
gravel, tree roots and other natural hazards
• No pocket knives or other weapons.
at camp. Sandals/flip flops may only be
• Any item that would cause distress if it was
worn in the shower.
lost or damaged.
• Remember to pack extra clothing/shoes in
case of rainy weather.
If these, or any other items found to be disrupting
• Zip Lock bags are great for keeping items
to the camp program, they will be collected by a
dry and keeping wet items from leaking on
staff member and returned to the camper upon
clothes.
check-out.
• Have your camper’s backpack packed with
her Fab Five and check-in materials when LOST AND FOUND
you leave home.
Lost items are displayed for girls to claim every day
THE FAB FIVE at each meal. Unclaimed items will be held at Camp
Liberty until the last day of summer camp. After
Campers and staff are required to carry the Fab Five
camp, items will be sent to the Quad City
with them at all times in their backpack. When
Leadership Center, 940 Golden Valley Drive,
preparing for camp, choose a study backpack that
Bettendorf, Iowa. Any items left unclaimed by the
your camper will be comfortable carrying all day
third week of August will be donated to Goodwill
with the fab five items and other gear. Please avoid
Industries. We will not mail any items but you can
drawstring backpacks. as they break easily and are
request to have them delivered to your nearest Girl
not comfortable to carry all day.
Scout Leadership Center.
6
Flashlight and extra batteries (Fab 5 item)
THE PACKING LIST Hat with brim
Laundry Bag
CLOTHING Insect repellent (Fab 5 item)
Water bottle with camper’s name (Fab 5
Shorts for each day and extras (No short item)
shorts) Sunscreen (Fab 5 item)
Shirts for each day and extras (No spaghetti Backpack or daypack (Fab 5 item)
straps) Bandana
Long pants or jeans for hiking, horseback
riding, ropes course OPTIONAL ITEMS
Underwear for each day and extras Inexpensive camera with batteries or
Socks for each day and extras charger*
Pajamas Stationary or postcards, addresses, pens or
Lightweight sweater, jacket or sweatshirt pencils, stamps*
Bathing suit and towel Sunglasses*
Two pairs of good fitting shoes that can get Books, e-readers, magazines, or journal for
wet and dirty – No crocks, jelly shoes, or quiet time*
clogs Watch*
Boots or rain boots iPod or mp3 player*
Camp Liberty Necker (returning campers) Mobile phone*
PERSONAL ITEMS EQUESTRIAN ITEMS
Soap Cowboy boots, riding boots, or shoes with a
Shampoo and conditioner heel are required to ride
Hair brush and/or comb Jeans or sturdy pants will be worn each day
Hair bands or other hair accessories
Toothbrush and toothpaste WATER SESSION ITEMS
Sandals or flip-flops for shower
Towels and washcloths Extra swimsuit and towel
Deodorant Old tennis shoes and aqua socks
Safety strap for glasses/sunglasses*
Feminine hygiene supplies*
Eye care needs* CIT/WIT ITEMS
Dental care needs*
Other toiletries as needed* Notebook with pen/pencil
Craft and game ideas/books
*if applicable Watch
EQUIPMENT White Polo Shirt
Khaki Shorts
Sleeping bag with a sheet or sheets and
blankets OUTDOOR TRIP ITEMS
Pillow Nylon stuff sack
Raincoat or poncho (Fab 5 item) Extra Water bottle
7
In our continuous efforts to provide the best
Health and Safety possible care to our campers and staff, we are
partnering with CampDoc.com. Their system will
Girl Scouts of Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois and give our doctors and nurses instant access to
Camp Liberty are proud to be an American Camp camper health information, a key component in
Association (ACA) accredited program. This providing quality patient care.
accreditation shows that we have undergone a The security, confidentiality, and privacy of your
thorough (up to 300 standards) review of our camper’s health information will always be
operation — from staff qualifications and training to protected. Only our Health Team will have access to
emergency management. The ACA accreditation camper health information and the CampDoc.com
combined with safety guidelines from Girl Scouts of site is secure, encrypted, and password protected.
the U.S.A. ensure that your camper will be safe
during her camp adventure. At the end of May (or after you register) you will
receive a “Welcome Email” from CampDoc.com
with information on how to complete your
camper’s health information online.
Returning campers will be able to log into their
CampDoc account and make any necessary updates.
First-time CampDoc users can follow the
instructions below.
HEALTH TEAM
• Click the link in this email to set a new
A nurse, health supervisor, or First Aider is on duty password for your CampDoc.com account.
at camp at all times. In emergencies and in cases of • Follow the instructions, and complete the
non-routine illnesses and injuries, health history for your camper. Alerts will
parents/guardians will be notified immediately. In appear for missing required information.
cases of minor injuries or illnesses (ex: bug bites, • We are asking you to upload a photo of
scrapes, headache, minor sunburn, etc.), treatment your camper.
will be provided. If health service staff has questions • You may return to your CampDoc.com at
or concerns regarding these minor cases, any time to make changes/updates to your
parents/guardians will be contacted. camper’s health information before camp
begins.
HEALTH INFORMATION
Please set, register@campdoc.com as a ‘safe
Health information is required for all participants sender,’ to avoid accidental delivery to junk and
(girl and adult), regardless of session and program. spam folders.
Health information must be completed online two
weeks prior to your camper’s session. All campers PHYSICAL EXAM
must complete the record of immunization section.
The Physical Examination, including physician’s
A current tetanus booster (administered within the
signature, is now optional for most camp sessions.
last 10 years) is required for all campers.
For participants attending a session lasting two
nights or more, we encourage families to have their
8
camper examined by a physician within 12 months OVER-THE-COUNTER MEDICATIONS
of their camp session. It is not required however,
unless the camper is attending one of the sessions The Health Center has a supply of common over-
listed below. the-counter medications. Unless your camper takes
an over-the-counter drug as a part of her regular
• Cave Explorer medication regiment, we recommend you leave
• CIT/WIT I over-the-counter drugs at home and use the camp’s
• CIT/WIT II supply if needed. Please be sure to mark over the
• Dr. Zoolittle counter medications you approve for your camper
• Extreme Challenge when completing her health information online.
• Liberty Riders
The following medications are available at the
• Take the Reins
Health Center and are recommended by our camp
• Trotters physicians through our standing orders. They will be
• Voyager administered under the health supervisor’s or
• Voyager: Night Edition designee’s supervision; dosed as appropriate for
• Wilderness Voyager weight and/or age.
Equestrian program campers wearing a brace, • Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
splint, sling, cast, ace wrap, or neck or back support • Ibuprofen (Motrin)
may NOT participate in riding. This is a council • Decongestant (Sudafed)
standard, not the decision of your doctor. • Antihistamine (Claritin)
• Antacid (Tums)
MEDICATIONS
• Antidiarrheal (Pepto-Bismol)
All over-the-counter and prescription medications • Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
must be in original containers with the correct, • Naphazoline/Pheniramine (Visine)
current label, including the camper’s name. All • Expectorant (cough suppressant, cough
medication should be checked in on opening day drops)
with the Health Team, who will oversee proper • Topical Corticosteroid (Hydrocortisone
administration of all medications. Medications may Cream)
NOT be kept by campers (girls or adults).
INSURANCE
Camp is a different environment from home and
Coverage for medical expenses incurred by an
school, with new procedures and rules. We want
illness or injury to a camper while she is
your camper to have a positive experience. If your
participating in camp activities is included in the
camper takes prescription medication for any
camp fee. It does not cover pre-existing conditions
health related condition, we strongly advise that
and is secondary to whatever health insurance
they continue these medications under the
coverage families may have.
supervision of our Health Team. This will ensure the
transition to camp life is smooth and successful.
Please let us know if your child’s doctor has advised
that your camper not take their medications during
camp.
9INCLUSION There are no exceptions to this policy and no
refunds for the camp session.
Every girl should have the chance to go to camp. If
your camper requires special accommodations
(dietary, physical, behavioral, etc.), please contact
us immediately so that any necessary
accommodations may be made prior to your
camper’s arrival. To discuss your camper’s special
needs, please contact Camp Director, Ashley Arnold
AshleyA@GirlScoutsToday.org.
HEAD LICE
Lice Clinics of America Quad Cities – Lice Facts
Camp Liberty has a no lice, no nit policy. We partner CDC – Head Lice Information
with Lice Clinics of America Quad Cities, a How to perform a lice check video
professional lice screening and treatment service, to
screen all campers before they enter camp and to HOMESICKNESS
treat any campers who arrive with lice or nits. The
Though not very often, common, or long-lasting,
presence of nits, live lice or dead eggs will require
homesickness can occur at camp. We have an
the camper and their belongings to have treatment
experienced staff that is trained to work with
before admittance to camp. If a positive case of lice
homesick campers. If it occurs, homesickness
is found, Lice Clinics of America Quad Cities will
usually happens in the beginning of the week and
provide the camper with a full service treatment
quickly dissipates as the camper gets settled in to
using heat treatment and their own non-toxic
camp life. The first few hours and days are a normal
products on-site. There is a $149 fee for this service
transition phase for everyone and it is typical for
if it is provided. Treatment will begin immediately
girls to all adjust at different paces.
so that campers can be admitted to camp as quickly
as possible and stay in their unit on the first night of
There are a few things a parent can do ahead of
camp. The camper’s laundry will also be treated to
time to help prevent long-lasting homesickness:
ensure it is lice free. Laundry facilities will be
available for parents to do laundry on site to ensure
• Explain what homesickness is and let her
their campers items are lice free.
know that it is normal, what it might feel
like and that it will go away.
Parents can choose to take their camper home for
• Give her some ideas of things she can do to
treatment. No camper will be admitted back to
help alleviate homesick feelings.
camp until all lice and eggs (nits) have been
• Think about the fun things you will
removed after the application of a lice killing
be doing later
product. A Do-It-Yourself Treatment Kit from Lice
• Take a special stuffed animal or
Clinics of America Quad Cities will be available for
book that makes her feel secure
purchase. All belongings, including clothes, pillows
• Talk to your counselor or a friend
and sleeping bag must be laundered in hot water
• Show confidence in your daughter that she
and dried in a hot dryer. The camper will need to be
will do great and will not experience too
completely nit free to return to camp.
much homesickness.
10• Let her know that you want her to have a • You are always welcome to call or email to
good time and make new friends. check in on your camper.
• Avoid bargaining. Saying something like, “if
you’re really homesick, I promise I’ll come If you believe your camper is prone to
pick you up right away,” sends the message homesickness, please share this information when
to your daughter that you are not confident filling out her online health information. You can
in her ability to succeed. also discuss it with a staff member at check-in
• Provide her with stationary and self- without involving your camper.
addressed and stamped envelopes to write
you notes. SAFETY AND SECURITY
• Consider preparing letters and bringing
Access to camp property is limited, controlled, and
them to check in to be delivered to your girl
only authorized visitors are allowed on site. To
throughout the week.
ensure the safety and security of camp, limit
• Do not suggest that she call you if she is
interruptions in the camp program, and prevent
feeling homesick. Often, calling home
homesickness among campers, unauthorized
makes homesickness worse and campers do
visitors are not allowed on site.
not have access to the camp phone.
• Lastly, should your daughter ask “what if I SEVERE WEATHER
get homesick?” remind her of the many
people at camp who are there to help. Living in the Midwest we have learned to expect the
weather to change. At camp we have a
Here are a few things to remember once you have communication system to alert all staff and
checked your camper in at Camp Liberty: campers of any weather watches and warnings. Our
staff are trained and drilled in emergency
• Once you get your camper moved in, try to procedures and our campers participate in drills to
leave as soon as possible so your camper make sure they are prepared in case of a weather
can start making new friends and get related emergency.
involved with activities. In case of a weather related emergency, updates
• Keep upbeat when you say goodbye. Save can be found on the Camp Liberty Facebook Page.
your tears until you get to the car where
you camper won’t see you.
• Be aware that your camper’s counselors will
engage the girls in singing songs and playing
games as soon as you leave.
• You can stay connected to your camper by
sending her mail and email while she is at
camp.
• You will have access to our Shutterfly
website, CampLiberty2018.Shutterfly.com.
Password information will be shared at
check-in. Daily posts and photos from all
the sessions will be updated in the evening.
11The $1.00 per page fee will be deducted from your
CAMPER COMMUNICATION campers’ trading post fund. The profits from this
email program go to support the Grants for
Campers fund.
Campers love to hear from home while they are
away at camp. We offer a number of options for
WHAT’S HAPPENING AT CAMP
you to communicate with your camper.
Check out the Shutterfly website to see what is
SNAIL MAIL
happening at Camp Liberty. View photos and
receive the latest updates at
Campers love cheerful letters from home. You can
CampLiberty2018.Shutterfly.com. Password
mail a letter before your camper leaves for camp or
information will be available at check-in.
after you drop her off. Please address mail as
follows.
CELL PHONES – NEW UPDATES
Camper Name, Session Name
With feedback from campers, parents, and staff, we
Camp Liberty
are continue to revise and monitor our cell phone
4415 295th Street
policy.
New Liberty IA, 52765
While we believe that camp is an opportunity for
Send your camper with stationary, pre-addressed
girls to take a much needed break from the world of
envelopes and stamps, and we will help them get
electronics, we also understand the changing world
the letter in the mail.
we live in. With this in mind, we will continue our
pilot cell phone policy. Campers will see more
CAMP MAIL BOX
programming utilizing portable technology.
Save a stamp and bring your mail to camp with you
on check-in day. You can drop your mail in our
Girls in grades 2-5 attending week-long sessions can
special camp mail box in the lobby of the Lodge.
bring a cell phone to camp and make one call during
You can leave a letter for each day, just mark the
the week. Due to their age, the phones will be
day you would like to have it delivered.
collected and registered during camper check-in.
Phones will be stored in the camp office in the off
EMAIL – NEW EMAIL SYSTEM – UPDATES
position until phone day. Girls will have the
While campers love to receive letters from home,
opportunity to make one call home on Wednesday
email is a nice option as well. We will print and
after breakfast just before they head out to
deliver email messages to your camper for $1.00
morning activities. Girls who do not bring a phone,
per page. Messages must be plain text only (no
will not be able to use another girls phone to make
pictures) and must be in the body of the email
a call home.
(images and attachments will not be opened or
printed). Emails received after 10:00 a.m. will be
Campers entering grades 6-12 will be able to keep
delivered the next day. To ensure timely delivery
their cell phones with them at camp. Girls will be
type your camper’s first and last name and session
instructed on the appropriate times to use their
name in the subject line. (Subject: Juliette Low,
phones and when the phones should be put away.
Adventurer). Send these emails to:
The phone technology will be put to use as part of
CamperEmail@GirlScoutsToday.org.
the camp program. Some examples of how we will
12use the phone include, photo “hunts”, logging data • That you hope she’s writing down songs,
collected for citizen science projects and exploring names of new friends, and taking lots of
social media to promote the outdoors. Campers pictures.
who do not have phones will have access to other • Use positive words like love and proud.
technology. Girls will not have access to phones
after our evening activities. Because there is limited DON’T tell her:
access to electricity at some units, we recommend • Trips or fun things she’s missing out on.
bringing portable chargers. • That her sibling cried all night because she
isn’t there.
eQUESTrian Campers – Due to the age range of girls • How much you miss her.
in the eQUESTrian program, they will not have • That she can call you anytime and you will
access to their phones throughout the week. pick her up if she is homesick.
Phones will be collected and registered during • About an ill relative or hurt animal.
camper check-in. They will be able to make a phone
call home on Wednesday after breakfast. ELECTRONIC DEVICES
Your camper is able to bring select electronic
If you choose to send a phone with your camper devices to camp. Campers can bring CD players,
please be aware of the following information; iPods or other MP3 players, digital cameras and
electronic readers as long as the device does not
• Girl Scouts of Eastern Iowa and Western have mobile data with access to the internet. We do
Illinois is not responsible for any loss or limit and monitor the use of these devices in order
damage to phones. to allow girls to fully embrace the connections they
• Due to the rural location of camp, phone make with other campers and to ensure that our
service for various providers cannot be campers are not exposed to material that is
guaranteed. inappropriate.
• Electricity for phone chargers is not
available in all areas of camp. Electronic devices (other than cameras) may be
used only during quiet time or before bed and will
Based on our experience, many campers who are not leave the cabin/tent. If you choose to send an
having a great time at camp become homesick electronic device with your camper, please discuss
while speaking to their family at home. During calls the proper handling and storage of the device in a
please encourage your daughter to focus on the camp setting; for example, do not leave it on the
positive experience at camp and the things she is tent floor. Electricity for charging devices is not
looking forward to. available at all locations in camp. Girl Scouts of
Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois is not responsible
TIPS FOR CAMPER COMMUNICATION for lost or damaged items.
DO tell her:
• You know she’s having a good time.
• You can’t wait to hear all about her new
friends, the fun activities she’s doing, to see
her art projects or to learn all of the new
songs she’s singing.
13ask any last minute questions. Please try to keep
CAMP ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE this process quick as we do not have much space for
parking and other families will be waiting to move
Everyone is excited for the first day of camp. Every in. Additionally prolonging good-byes can promote
effort is taken to make the check-in process as homesickness in your camper.
efficient as possible. However, several steps must
be taken to ensure that your camper has a healthy HEALTH CHECK
and fun camp experience. Please be prepared to
spend some time to get through the check-in All campers (girls and adults) will have a general
process. Come dressed for the weather and be health screening before they are checked into
camp. This will include taking the camper’s
prepared to walk and stand.
temperature, checking their feet, and inspection for
ARRIVAL head lice. Braids and ponytails will need to be taken
out so you may want to wait until after the health
check to braid hair.
As you arrive at camp, there will be staff on hand to
help direct you where to go. Ask any staff member Arrival and Departure Times
if you need help. The check-in will take place at the
Camp Liberty Lodge. When you arrive at the Lodge, WEEK DAY CAMPS
you and your camper will visit a few stations to turn Check-In on Arrival Day
in paperwork, open your trading post account and (Wednesday or Sunday) – 1:00-2:00 p.m.
complete a health check.
Check-Out on Departure Day
You can expedite the check in process by making 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday and Friday
sure your camper has her backpack with her Closing ceremony begins at 3:30 with camper
Fab Five and the items listed below. sign-out immediately after.
• Trading Post money – this is optional but
you will need money in the trading post TROOP CAMP
account to send emails as money will get AND
deducted out per email (see page 12) YOU AND Me CAMP
• All medication – All inhalers, medicated Check-In on Arrival Day
creams, and prescription and non- (Friday) 6:00 p.m.
prescription drugs need to be checked in
with the health service staff upon arrival. Check-Out on Departure Day
They must be in original containers with (Saturday) 3:30 p.m.
labels and doctor’s release.
• Program waivers for equestrian and CLOSING DAY ACTIVITIES
challenge programs.
All girls will participate in closing day activities.
Parents and family are encouraged to join us at
Once check-in is complete, families will get a map
camp for these special events before picking up
and be directed to their camper’s unit. Please obey
their campers. Be sure to bring your camera to
all speed limits and signs and do not drive on the
capture your camper’s special moment. Families of
grass. Families are invited to help their camper
campers in the progressive horse program will meet
move into the unit, meet the unit counselors, and
at the Equestrian Center at 3:30 p.m. All other
14programs will meet at the Lodge Pergola at 3:30 so we can let your camper know you are on your
p.m. Girls will be able to check out immediately way and keep her busy until you arrive.
following the shows.
When you arrive for the Closing Ceremony please
Gates will open to enter camp no earlier than 3:15 drive toward the Lodge. Staff will be there to help
p.m. To avoid traffic backups and to keep our camp direct parking. Please note that prior to the Closing
neighbors happy, please do not arrive early to Ceremony campers are busy finishing activities so
camp. Limited parking is available in the lower lot we ask that you not pick up your camper prior to
while waiting for the gates to open. the end of the closing ceremony at 4:00 – 4:15p.m.
HORSE SHOW If someone other than a parent is picking up your
camper notify camp staff during check-in. The
A horse show will take place at the Equestrian person picking up each camper will be required to
Center each Friday at 3:30 pm. The show lasts 45 show a photo ID. No campers will be released to
minutes to an hour. All girls participating in the unauthorized persons or persons without a photo
progressive equestrian program (see list below) will ID.
participate in the horse show. When at camp for
the horse show, take the first left up the hill to get At checkout you will be advised as to where you can
to the Equestrian Center. pick up your campers’s belongings.
• eQUESTrians Please drive cautiously and follow traffic guidelines
• Giddy-Up Girls while exiting camp.
• Trail Mates
SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS
• Trotters
• Take the Reins Your camper’s program activities begin immediately
• Liberty Riders and we don’t want her missing out on this valuable
time to get to know her fellow campers and settle
CLOSING CEREMONY
into camp life. Campers who must arrive late,
A special camp presentation will take place on the depart early or leave during a session are asked to
backside of the Lodge in the Pergola grass each make this request to the camp director prior to the
Friday at 3:30 p.m. The show lasts 30 to 45 minutes. camp session.
Campers and staff will share the highlights from
PETS
their week at camp. When the gates open, please
drive directly up the hill toward the lodge. Staff will Pets are not allowed on camp property. Please
be on hand to help with parking. Families should leave pets or other animals at home when dropping
feel free to bring blankets or folding chairs. off or picking up your camper from camp.
CHECK OUT Registered service animals are the exception. To
maintain the Health and Safety of all campers and
Please verify your check-out day and time and plan
their adults, we ask that you contact the Camp
to pick up your camper at the appropriate time. On
Director to make accommodations before arriving
time pick-up eases your camper’s nerves during the
to Camp with a service animal.
anticipation of going home. If something happens
and you are running late, please call the camp office
15TRANSPORTATION BUS CHECK IN
Please arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the
departure time of your bus. All camp check-in
Free transportation to camp will be offered on procedures will take place prior to campers
select weeks throughout the summer. The Camp boarding the bus. This includes checking in all
pick-up and drop-off locations will be in Decorah, money and medications as well as the health check.
Waterloo and West Burlington. If you are interested Please see page 12 for details on the check in
in this pilot program and have not already process.
registered, you can access your registration and add
transportation prior to May 18, 2018. A minimum SAFETY
of five campers is required to provide
transportation, so invite friends to ride the bus out Boarding the bus/van is the start of camp fun for
to camp. your camper. Each bus/van is staffed with a trained
driver and a camp staff who will ensure the safety
Checking Into Camp of your girl. While on the bus campers will get to
Pick-Up Date Pick-Up Location Pick-Up Time know each other, sing songs and play games. They
June 17 Decorah 9:00 a.m. will also have some safety guidelines to follow. Prior
June 17 Waterloo 11:00 a.m. to departure all campers will be provided with an
June 24 West Burlington 12:00 p.m. orientation to safety regulations and procedures
July 8 Decorah 9:00 a.m. during the trip.
July 8 Waterloo 11:00 a.m.
Campers will:
July 15 West Burlington 12:00 p.m.
July 22 Decorah 9:00 a.m. • Wear seatbelts at all times.
July 22 Waterloo 11:00 a.m.
July 29 West Burlington 12:00 p.m. • Remain seated until an adult opens the
doors.
• Keep hands, head, or any items out the
Checking Out of Camp
windows.
Drop-Off Drop-Off Drop-Off Time
Date Location • Keep voices low. No loud shouts or screams.
June 22 Decorah 8:45 p.m.
June 22 Waterloo 7:00 p.m. No one under the age of 12 will ride in the front
June 29 West Burlington 6:45 p.m. passenger seat.
July 13 Decorah 8:45 p.m.
BUS DROP OFF
July 13 Waterloo 7:00 p.m.
July 20 West Burlington 6:45 p.m. Please review the schedule for bus drop off. On-
July 27 Decorah 8:45 p.m. time pick-up eases your camper’s nerves during the
July 27 Waterloo 7:00 p.m. anticipation of going home. If something happens
August 3 West Burlington 6:45 p.m. and you are running late, please call the camp
office. They will contact the bus and let your
camper know you are on your way and keep her
busy until you arrive.
16TRANSPORTATION CHANGES OR EMERGENCIES
DIRECTIONS TO CAMP LIBERTY
In case of a schedule change or emergency that
could delay pick up or drop off of your camper or Camp Liberty
require a change in the location, you will be 4415 295th Street
contacted by phone from our camp office. Please New Liberty, Iowa 52765
contact our office if you have a change in your
camper’s need for transportation or if you have a Location: Camp Liberty is located two miles
change in your contact information. southwest of Dixon, Iowa on county road F-31.
There are road signs to help navigate your way to
camp, so be on the lookout.
• From U.S. 30, turn south on county Y-4E at
Wheatland.
• From Highway 130, turn east on county F-
31at New Liberty.
• From I-80, turn north on county Y-40 at Exit
#284 (Walcott) to F-31.
17e
anc
t r Creek
p En
m
Ca
31 Maintenance Building
d F-
oa
tyR
u n
Co
Prairie’s Edge
Campfire Circle
Welcome
Center
Sundial Garden Outpost
Bea Conrad
Pavillion
Archery
Indian Ridge
Zipline
Equestrian Center
Lodge
Low Ropes
Lodge
Shelter Tomahawk Pass
Clover
Violet Woodland Stage
Sunflower Activity
Director’s Cabin Shelter
Hy-Vee
Healthy You
Sports and
Hy-Vee
Activities Field
Healthy You
Hy-Vee Aquatics Center
Healthy You
Trail’s End Activity Center
Zipline
High Ropes
Roads
Trails Boat House
and Water Front
Water
Camp Buildings North Star
Valley
Modern Cabins
Normal Cabins Flint Lake
Tent Units 18Camp Liberty Equestrian Center
Horse Program Waiver
A number of inherent risks are associated with a domesticated animal activity. A domesticated animal may
behave in a manner that could result in damages to property or injury or death to a person. Risks associated
with the activity may include injuries caused by bucking, biting, stumbling, rearing, trampling, scratching,
pecking, falling or butting. The domesticated animal may react unpredictably to conditions, including, but not
limited to, a sudden movement, loud noise, an unfamiliar environment, or the introduction of unfamiliar
persons, animals, or objects.
The domesticated animal may also react in a dangerous manner when a condition or treatment is considered
hazardous to the welfare of the animal; a collision occurs with an object or animal; or a participant fails to
exercise reasonable care, take adequate precautions, or use adequate control when engaged in a domesticated
animal activity, including failing to maintain reasonable control of the animal or failing to act in a manner
consistent with the person’s abilities.
As the parent/guardian or adult participant, I have read and understand the potential risks of domesticated
animal activity.
Signed:______________________________________________________ Date:__________________
Printed Name:________________________________________________________________________
Participant
Name:_____________________________________
________________________________
Office Use Only
Program: ____________________ Date: ______________ Charge Person: __________________
19Challenge Course Participant Agreement, Medical Release and Release of Liability
Participant Name (please print): ________________________________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Name (if minor): ______________________________________________________________________
Initial below to indicate that you have read, understand and agree to the section following your initials. Parents/guardians should initial on
behalf of the minor participant after discussing each point with them to ensure that both the participant and the parent/guardian
understand.
_____ I state that I am not now and/or will not be under the influence of any controlled substance when present at any activity sites or
while participating in or using any challenge course structures. I realize that participating in/using the Challenge Course under the influence
of a controlled substance would endanger me and others.
_____I give consent to Girl Scouts of Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois (GSEIWI), their employees and emergency medical personnel to
treat me if they deem it to be medically necessary.
_____I agree to accept financial responsibility for any medical expenses and/or loss of income not covered by my Insurance Policy that
result from my participation in or use of any challenge course structures.
_____I understand that Challenge Course structures are by their nature, physically and emotionally demanding and that participating in
these activities may involve risks such as walking, bending, twisting, pulling, running, jumping, climbing, swinging, increased heart or breath
rates and/or physical contact with others.
_____I understand that although GSEIWI staff will make every effort to minimize exposure to known risks, not all dangers and hazards can
be prevented (i.e. cuts, bruises, scrapes, fractures, dislocations, fatalities, etc.)
_____I understand that my participation is voluntary and that I have the right and responsibility to limit my participation in any activity that
I believe will compromise my safety, and agree to notify GSEIWI staff if I have safety concerns. I understand that GSEIWI practices “Choose
Your Challenge” philosophy. This means, if I choose to physically participate in any of the activities, I voluntarily assume all risks associated
with such participation.
_____I understand that GSEIWI staff has the right to deny my participation and that it is my responsibility as a participant to follow
instructions, guidelines and procedures established by the facilitators/trainers. If at any time, I do not understand or have not heard
specific instructions, I realize that it is my responsibility to ask for clarification and/or assistance before any participation.
_____I understand and assume all dangers and risks (Both known and unknown) associated with my presence at any activity sites or
participation in or use of the Challenge Course structures and waive, release and discharge GSEIWI and their agents, officers and employees
from any and all claims or causes of action arising from such presence or participation. I do hereby release GSEIWI, its agents, officers and
employees from any and all liability, even if arising from the negligence of the releases. I do hereby agree to indemnify and hold harmless
GSEIWI its agents, officers and employees for any accidents, injury, loss or damage of property, and from any legal fees that I may ever have
as a direct or indirect result of said presence or participation. This release, indemnification, and waiver shall be construed broadly to the
maximum extent under applicable law.
_____My signature on this document is also intended to bind my representatives, administrators, successors, heirs, next of kin and assigns
on my behalf.
By signing below I am agreeing that I have carefully read and agree to all of the sections initialed above. I am also verifying that the
information listed on the health form is complete and accurate to the best of my knowledge.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Participant Signature (Minors must sign) Date
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Participant/Guardian/Legal Representative Signature Relationship Date
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