INFORMATION

No Drugs, Alcohol, or Smoking Policy

At River Pointe Church Camp, we are committed to providing a safe, healthy, and Christ-centered environment where campers, staff, and volunteers can thrive. To maintain the highest standards of safety and well-being, we enforce a "No Drugs, Alcohol, or Smoking Policy". This policy strictly prohibits the possession, use, or distribution of illegal drugs, alcohol, tobacco, vaping products, or any other controlled substances on campgrounds or during camp-related activities. 

 

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to promote a safe and healthy environment for all campers, staff, and volunteers by ensuring that camp is free of drugs, alcohol, smoking, and vaping. This policy aligns with our mission to foster a positive and wholesome environment for personal, spiritual, and community growth.

 

Prohibited Substances and Activities

1. Drugs and Controlled Substances:

   - The possession, use, or distribution of illegal drugs, prescription drugs without authorization, or any controlled substances is strictly prohibited on campgrounds or at any camp-related events. This includes, but is not limited to:

     - Illegal narcotics (e.g., marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine)

     - Unauthorized prescription medications

     - Recreational drugs (e.g., ecstasy, hallucinogens)

   - Any staff member, camper, or volunteer found in possession of or using illegal drugs or controlled substances will face immediate disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal from camp and notification of law enforcement.

 

2.  Alcohol:

   - The possession, consumption, or distribution of alcohol is prohibited for all individuals on camp property or at camp-sponsored activities, regardless of age.

   - Any staff member, camper, or volunteer found in possession of or under the influence of alcohol will face immediate disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal from camp. For staff or volunteers, this may also include termination from their position.

 

3. Smoking, Vaping, and Tobacco Use:

   - Smoking, vaping, and the use of tobacco products (including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, chewing tobacco, and e-cigarettes) are prohibited at all times on campgrounds and during camp activities. This applies to campers, staff, volunteers, and visitors, regardless of age.

   - Campers and staff are expected to respect camp rules and refrain from using any form of smoking or tobacco products on or off-site while participating in camp activities.

 

Exceptions

1. Prescription Medications:

   - Campers and staff who require prescription medication must turn it in to the camp nurse or designated medical personnel upon arrival. All prescription drugs must be administered by the camp nurse and stored in the Nurses Station.

   - Campers or staff who self-administer certain medications, such as inhalers or EpiPens, must have prior approval from camp leadership and follow all relevant policies outlined in the **Medication and Medical Emergency Policy**.

 

2. Nicotine Replacement Therapy:

   - If a staff member is participating in a nicotine replacement therapy program (e.g., nicotine patches, gum), this must be disclosed to camp leadership. Staff should follow all guidelines and may only use these products discreetly in designated staff areas.

 

Consequences for Violations

1. Campers:

   - Campers found in possession of drugs, alcohol, or tobacco products, or caught using them, will face immediate disciplinary action. This may include:

     - Confiscation of prohibited items

     - A meeting with the camper, camp leadership, and parents/guardians

     - Suspension from camp activities

     - Dismissal from camp and being sent home at the expense of the parents/guardians

     - Notification of law enforcement in the case of illegal drug use or possession

   - River Pointe Church Camp reserves the right to remove any camper whose behavior or actions violate this policy and threaten the safety and well-being of others.

 

2. Staff and Volunteers:

   - Staff members or volunteers found in possession of or using drugs, alcohol, or tobacco products will face disciplinary action. This may include:

     - Immediate suspension from duties

     - Confiscation of prohibited items

     - Termination from their role at camp

     - Notification of law enforcement if illegal activity is involved

   - Staff members are expected to set a positive example for campers and to uphold the standards of this policy at all times, both on and off campgrounds while engaged in camp activities.

 

3. Visitors:

   - Visitors found in violation of the No Drugs, Alcohol, or Smoking Policy will be asked to leave campgrounds immediately. Future visitation privileges may be revoked.

 

Reporting and Confidentiality

1. Reporting Violations:

   - Any camper, staff member, or volunteer who witnesses or suspects a violation of this policy is required to report the incident immediately to camp leadership (e.g., camp director, head counselor).

   - Reports will be handled with discretion and confidentiality to protect the privacy of those involved while ensuring a thorough investigation of the incident.

 

2. Investigation and Response:

   - Camp leadership will investigate all reported violations of this policy promptly and fairly. If a violation is confirmed, appropriate disciplinary action will be taken, as outlined in this policy.

   - Parents or guardians of campers involved in violations will be notified and involved in any necessary follow-up actions.

 

Prevention and Education

1. Education on Substance Abuse:

   - As part of our commitment to creating a safe and healthy environment, campers and staff will receive education on the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse during camp orientation. This education will emphasize the importance of making healthy choices and the impact of substance abuse on personal health and community safety.

   - Campers and staff will be encouraged to live in a way that honors their health, well-being, and Christian values, avoiding the use of harmful substances.

 

2. Support for Staff and Campers:

   - Campers or staff members who are struggling with substance abuse issues are encouraged to seek support from camp leadership or pastoral staff. While possession or use of prohibited substances is not tolerated, the camp is committed to offering guidance and support to those seeking help.

   - Counseling and pastoral care resources will be made available to any individual seeking assistance in overcoming substance use challenges.

 

Conclusion

The "No Drugs, Alcohol, or Smoking Policy" at River Pointe Church Camp is in place to protect the safety, health, and spiritual well-being of our campers, staff, and volunteers. We are committed to maintaining a drug-free, alcohol-free, and smoke-free environment where all individuals can grow, learn, and thrive in a supportive and wholesome atmosphere. By adhering to this policy, we ensure that River Pointe Church Camp remains a place of positive growth and safe, healthy experiences for all. All staff, campers, and volunteers are responsible for upholding this policy and reporting any violations.