About our Florida Diabetes Camp Volunteers
Empowering Young Lives
Each year, hundreds of young individuals come together at our Florida Diabetes Camp programs. Here, they find a unique space to learn, grow, and manage their diabetes. Our mission is to empower these youngsters, allowing them to share experiences with peers who face similar challenges and receive guidance from caring professionals.
Our Dedicated Team
Our camp is staffed by a diverse and dedicated team of volunteer physicians, nurses, nutritionists, educators, and administrators. They are supported by counselors from various backgrounds, including health science students, healthcare professionals, and those from other sectors. This blend of expertise and experience creates a supportive and educational atmosphere for all campers.
Professional Development and Recognition
We take pride in the professional development of our volunteers. Our camp medical director offers personalized letters of recommendation, reflecting your dedicated service in a demanding yet rewarding setting. These letters carry significant weight with academic admissions committees and potential employers. A University of Florida Dean highlighted, “The educational opportunities and experiences at the camp contribute significantly to professional growth and broaden the understanding of childhood diseases.”
Become a Counselor at The Florida Diabetes Camp
At Florida Diabetes Camp, our counselors play a vital role in empowering young individuals to confidently manage their type one diabetes. Their involvement makes a lasting impact on the lives of these young individuals and contributes to the professional and personal development of the counselors themselves. Join us in making a difference. Apply today and be part of an unforgettable week that transforms lives, including your own.
Camp Counselor
At Florida Diabetes Camp, our counselors are at the forefront of providing a transformative experience for children living with type 1 diabetes. This role combines medical management, leadership, emotional support, and teamwork to ensure that all campers are safe, supported, and engaged in an unforgettable camp experience.
Qualifications:
- At least 19 years old and at least one year of college or work experience
- Desire and ability to work with children outdoors in a camp setting
- Commitment to creating a positive, inclusive, and safe camp environment.
- Strong interest or personal connection to diabetes care and management.
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team and adapt to dynamic situations.
- Commitment to attend the entire week of camp, and endurance to maintain consistent supervision of campers for a week-long camping experience
Reporting to: On-site Camp Director and On-site Medical Director
Key Responsibilities:
Before Camp:
- Complete all necessary paperwork and background checks.
- Acquire a basic understanding of type 1 diabetes and complete mandatory training.
- Attend a pre-camp orientation to prepare for the upcoming session.
During Camp:
- Work closely with co-counselors to create a safe, supportive, and enjoyable experience for campers with type 1 diabetes.
- Attend to the daily medical needs of campers, including monitoring blood glucose and administering insulin, and consult regularly with medical staff to ensure comprehensive diabetes care.
- Utilize specialized knowledge in diabetes management, diabetes technology, carbohydrate counting, emergency preparedness, and actively managing glucose level changes.
- Provide education to campers on diabetes management and create a safe environment for them to express their feelings and concerns, whether related to diabetes or not.
- Lead campers in various activities such as arts and crafts, waterfront sports, and evening events, fostering positive interactions among campers and with staff.
- Keep the cabin organized to maintain a conducive living and learning environment.
- Maintain accurate records of campers’ medical information and communicate effectively with medical staff to ensure the well-being of campers.
After Camp:
- Lead discussions with parents about their child’s camp experience and medical care.
- Participate in debrief sessions, sharing insights and experiences to improve future camps.
| Fun Sports Camp | Dogwood Acres Camp | Adventure Camp | Pee-Wee Camp | Camp Winona Session 1 | Camp Winona Session 2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ages 15 to 18 | Ages 7 to 12 | Ages 15 to 18 | Ages 5 to 9 | Ages 12 to 14 | Ages 9 to 12 |
| June 9 - 14, 2024 | June 11 - 15, 2024 | June 24 - 29, 2024 | July 14 - 19, 2024 | July 21 - 26, 2024 | August 4 - 9, 2024 |
| Training: June 9-10 | Training: June 7-8 | Training: June 23 | Training: July 13-14 | Training: July 18-20 | Training: August 1-3 |
| Brandon, FL | Chipley, FL (Panhandle) | North Central Florida | Brandon, FL | De Leon Springs, FL | De Leon Springs, FL |
