Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I have to work for the entire summer?
A: Yes. Exceptions are based on special circumstances and must be approved by the STC Coordinator & camp director before acceptance into the program. 

Q: How old do I have to be to work in the SMP?
A: You need to be at least 14 years old and must have a valid work permit. Many job assignments have age restrictions so Word of Life will work with you to assure proper placement. 

Q: May I take part in the activities at camp?
A: Activity involvement is arranged by the STC Coordinators. STC has a very exciting and fun-filled program designed just for you! 

Q: How will I be challenged throughout the summer in my walk with the Lord?
A: Every staff member will be expected to do a daily quiet time, attend weekly chapels/Bible Club meetings, and interact in one-on-one discipleship. Word of Life is committed to the spiritual growth of each staff member and is very intent and direct in the discipleship process. 

Q: May I leave Word of Life property?
A: Yes, but please refer to the Summer Staff Manual for guidelines.

Q: Do I get a day off during the week?
A: Yes, every staff member is entitled to one day off a week. 

Q: What ministry opportunities are available during the summer?
A: Every staff member will have opportunities to participate in open-air evangelism, discipleship, and serving others. Each camp creates a program enabling you to use your gifts and abilities to minister to others. 

Q: If I am taking part in a Missions Trip, may I still work at Word of Life for the summer?
A: Yes, if your position allows and you have prior approval from the STC Coordinator and Camp Director you will be allowed to participate in a Word of Life sponsored mission's trip.

Q: Am I allowed to take time off during the summer?
A:  Special Permission / Leave of Absence - Only Camp Directors or STC Coordinators may grant special permission for a leave of absence for special circumstances (i.e. wedding, graduation, etc.) when the ministry role of the staff member permits. The normal length of time granted for the absence should not exceed three (3) days. Planned special permissions must be requested through the appropriate Staff Coordinators or Camp Directors prior to the summer camping season. Unplanned circumstances are addressed on a case-by-case basis.

Q: If I am involved with Teens Involved, may I attend camp with my church group?
A: No, but you will be able to attend Teens Involved events. All arrangements must be made in advance with the STC Coordinator for your facility. 

Q: Does Word of Life provide transportation assistance to your property if I must fly or ride a bus/train to your area?
A: Yes, after acceptance you will need to log back into the system to complete the contract and other appropriate forms. One of the forms is an SMP Transportation Assistance Form. Please complete the form and our Transportation Coordinator will arrange details. 

Q: If I am missing some of my paperwork items before I arrive, may I still come to work?
A: If you are unable to provide proper paperwork before or at the time of registration, you will not be able to work.

Q: May I still work, if I do not have medical insurance?
A: Yes, but you must sign a waiver stating you will be responsible for all non-work medical claims. For those in the Summer Missionary Program, employment coverage (Workmen's Comp) is provided. Those volunteering must supply their own insurance. Word of Life only provides secondary coverage. 

Q: I am unable to view the Staff  Manual and can't submit my application without agreeing to it. What should I do?
A: Please contact the STC Coordinator for further assistance at 518-494-6215. 

Q: I cannot remember my username and/or password. What should I do?
A: Email, stc@wol.org. Please be ready to provide your full name, email address, and home phone number for confirmation. The Summer Staff office personnel will email you your missing information. 

Q: What kind of housing is available for the summer?
A: Housing is provided for all staff at each camp location. While each cabin has bunk beds you are responsible for providing your own bedding. All guys and girls cabins are separated. 

Q:  With the new program, am I still able to receive the Word of Life Bible Institute Scholarship? 
A: Yes, with the new program nothing has changed with the scholarship. Here are some details:

• How much is the scholarship?
  Students recieve a $1000.00 scholarship for the summer following their junior year and a $2000.00 scholarship for the summer following their senior year.
• Do I receive the scholarship for working at any Word of Life Camp?
  You may qualify for the scholarship if you work at any of the six camps in the continental United States.
• How long do I have to work each summer?
  The scholarship is awarded based on completion of eight weeks of STC for the junior and senior summers.
• What do I have to do to get the scholarship when I come to the Bible Institute?
  Complete the Word of Life Bible Institute Scholarship Application for the year you plan to attend the Bible Institute.  Complete the STC section of the Scholarship Application.  The Financial Aid Office will then verify that you were successful in completing your summer of STC.

Q: If I decide to raise support, how will I do this and how do I know how much I have?
A: Word of Life has a program designed to help you raise support, understand giving policies and even track your support. You will receive a username and password to our Summer Training Corp Program. From this site you will be able to view your account balance, donor's, donor's contributions and donor's contact information.  This will assist you in keeping current with your newsletter and than you cards.

Q: How much may I raise this summer for my salary?
A: Our staff will work with you to determine the total amounts, but you can raise amounts that will give you a weekly salary of up to $150.00.