INFORMATION
Code of Conduct Policy
The Code of Conduct at River Pointe Church Camp sets the foundation for how all campers, staff, and volunteers are expected to behave. Our mission is to create a safe, respectful, and Christ-centered environment where everyone feels valued and supported. This policy outlines the values, behavior expectations, and consequences for inappropriate behavior.
Purpose
To ensure a positive camp experience for all, this policy promotes respect, kindness, and responsibility in line with our Christian values. It also provides a framework for maintaining order and safety at camp.
General Expectations
- Respect for Others: Campers, staff, and volunteers must treat each other with respect at all times. This includes using kind words, listening to others, and valuing each person’s feelings and contributions.
- Christ-Centered Behavior: All interactions should reflect Christian values such as love, compassion, forgiveness, and integrity. Bullying, teasing, or harassment will not be tolerated.
- Respect for Property: Campers and staff are responsible for keeping camp facilities and personal belongings in good condition. Any damage to camp property must be reported immediately.
- We are committed to ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, is included and made to feel welcome. Discrimination of any kind—based on race, gender, ability, or socioeconomic status—is not tolerated.
Specific Conduct Guidelines
1. Language and Communication:
- Use positive, encouraging, and respectful language.
- Swearing, name-calling, or inappropriate jokes are not acceptable.
- Verbal abuse, threats, or derogatory comments based on race, gender, or background will result in disciplinary action.
2. Physical Contact:
- Physical contact should be appropriate and respectful. Campers and staff should refrain from roughhousing, inappropriate touching, or any form of physical violence.
- Displays of affection should align with Christian values and camper comfort levels (side hugs are encouraged over face-to-face hugs).
- Sexual harassment or any form of inappropriate sexual behavior will result in immediate dismissal.
3. Participation:
- Campers are expected to participate in all scheduled activities unless excused for health reasons.
- Counselors and staff should engage fully in activities and model enthusiasm and teamwork for campers.
- All campers should be encouraged, but never forced, to engage in activities.
4. Obedience to Camp Rules:
- Follow all camp rules and guidelines set forth by camp leadership. These include safety regulations, curfew, and participation expectations.
- Campers must obey instructions given by counselors and camp staff in a respectful manner.
- Staff and volunteers are expected to be role models by adhering to these rules themselves.
5. Respect for Authority:
- Campers must listen to and respect counselors, leaders, and camp staff.
- Counselors are to address behavior issues with patience, calmness, and understanding, reflecting Christian leadership.
Prohibited Behavior
- Bullying, Harassment, or Discrimination: Any form of bullying, whether verbal, physical, or cyberbullying, is strictly prohibited. Harassment based on race, gender, religion, or ability will not be tolerated.
- Substance Use: The possession, use, or distribution of alcohol, drugs, or tobacco is strictly prohibited for campers, staff, and volunteers.
- Weapons and Dangerous Items: No camper or staff member is allowed to bring weapons, firearms, or dangerous items to camp.
- Sexual Behavior: Any inappropriate sexual behavior, including verbal comments or physical advances, is strictly prohibited and will result in immediate dismissal.
Consequences for Violations
- Verbal Warning: Minor infractions (disruptive behavior, minor disrespect) will result in a verbal warning and a reminder of the expected behavior.
- Loss of Privileges: Continued misbehavior may lead to the loss of privileges (such as missing an activity or free time).
- Parent/Guardian Notification: For more serious infractions, parents/guardians will be notified, and the camper may be put on probation.
- Dismissal from Camp: Serious violations (such as bullying, violence, or substance use) will result in immediate dismissal from camp. Parents/guardians will be contacted to arrange transportation home.
Staff and Volunteer Conduct
- Leadership by Example: All staff and volunteers are expected to model appropriate behavior and Christian values at all times. This includes interacting positively with campers, respecting other staff, and upholding camp rules.
- Professional Boundaries: Counselors and staff must maintain clear boundaries with campers. This includes avoiding inappropriate physical contact, not discussing personal or romantic relationships with campers, and maintaining professionalism in all interactions.
- Reporting Misconduct: Staff are required to report any instances of misconduct, abuse, or inappropriate behavior to camp leadership immediately.
Reporting and Resolving Issues
- Open Communication: Campers and staff are encouraged to speak up if they feel uncomfortable or witness any violations of the Code of Conduct. Concerns can be reported to counselors, head counselors, or camp leadership.
- Conflict Resolution: Counselors should seek to resolve minor conflicts through respectful communication and mediation, promoting understanding and reconciliation. For more serious issues, the camp director will become involved.
Commitment to Christian Values
River Pointe Church Camp is committed to ensuring that every camper, staff member, and volunteer feels safe, respected, and valued in a Christ-centered environment. The Code of Conduct policy is designed to reinforce these values and to create a camp community based on love, respect, and cooperation.
By adhering to this policy, we can ensure that River Pointe Camp is a place where campers grow spiritually, socially, and emotionally while having fun and creating lasting memories.
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This policy helps maintain a high standard of behavior and ensures a positive camp experience for everyone, rooted in Christian principles.