Volunteer Program
Frequently Asked Questions

Who does the Double H serve?
Our Summer Residential Camp and Adaptive Winter Sports Program accepts children, ages 6-16, who have been diagnosed with
chronic and/or life threatening illnesses such as cancer, blood diseases, HIV/AIDS and neuromuscular disorders.  We also host a variety of weekend, Family-Based and Theme-Based Programs that allow children, siblings, parents and adults alike to alleviate some of the emotional burdens surrounding their situations. 

All Programs are free of charge to participants!

How can I help?
The Double H welcomes your energy in all areas of operation!  From support staff (maintenance, housekeeping, kitchen) to Cabin Counselor to Event Hosting, our organization thrives on the participation of volunteers like you!  For a detailed listing of our volunteer program, please see our Volunteer Opportunities sheet.   

Is there a cost to Volunteering?
There are no charges to be a Volunteer.  We will be not be responsible for your transportation to and from the Ranch, though we do offer pickups from local airports, bus and train stations.  You will need to make lodging arrangements if you come as a General Volunteer.  Room and board is provided for Session Volunteers only.  (Lodging may be provided to Volunteers helping out with Theme- and Family-Based Programs.)

 What are the living arrangements for Volunteers?
Volunteers who make a week-long pledge will have onsite accommodations provided.  During the day you are assigned to a camper cabin or program area, and in the evening you will sleep in volunteer housing.  There will be one room for every 2-3 volunteers with its own bathroom.  Meals are taken with your cabin; a vegetarian meal is optionally available.
 

Are there any restrictions and/or requirements of which I should be aware?
There are some, but all are necessary, given the special needs of our campers and the emphasis of camp. 
 

Session Volunteers must be 19yrs of age or have one year of college.

Barn volunteers are accepted from the age of 12yrs (limited shifts available) and Arts and Crafts volunteers are accepted from the age of 17 yrs upwards on a non residential basis 

Camp Policies Include:

  • Smoking is not permitted anywhere on the camp property.

  • Drinking and drug use are prohibited.

  • Vehicles brought to camp must be registered upon your arrival. And are not permitted 'on site' during session.

 Do you accept disabled volunteers?
We do not exclude disabled staff or volunteers.  However, we do point out that work as a counselor is sometimes strenuous, and ultimately the safety or our campers must be an important consideration in our selection process.  If you are disabled, we expect that you will help us to make a reasonable assessment of your ability to supervise and assist both able and disabled children.  Our site is accessible to the disabled.  

What are the specifics of being a “Volunteer Cabin Counselor”?
Volunteer Cabin Counselors are an integral part of our Summer Program.  These men and women come a day early for Orientation and then serve for a full camp session (6 days) as Cabin Counselors and are assigned to one of our cabins, together with full-time Counselors and campers.  Volunteer Cabin Counselors must be 19 years of age or older and are expected to be “on duty” 24 hours a day.  We need to be able to count on you to help as the need arises, so we ask that you not leave the camp except during your scheduled time off duty (arranged once you get to camp).  Generally there are 2-3 Volunteer Cabin Counselors per cabin per session. 

How do I sign up?  Is there a deadline?
Contact our Volunteer Coordinator for an Application!  You can do so by phone, email or fax.  You can also download one from this website.  Our Application allows you to request placement in any of our programs throughout the calendar year.  You will need to provide us with (2) references, and a physical form with immunization history and proof of a negative TB test, as well as give us permission to perform a background check, in order to ensure the safety of our campers.  There is no official deadline for volunteer applications, as we accept people on a first-come, first-serve basis with preference given to repeat volunteers.  Upon receipt and review of your application, we will contact you regarding interview arrangements.  Send us your Application - We can’t wait to hear from you!
 

Who should I contact if I have any further questions?
Evan Priestley – Volunteer Coordinator 
 

97 Hidden Valley Road, Lake Luzerne, NY 12846
Administrative Office: (518) 696-5676, Fax (518) 696-4528
Development Office: (518) 696-5921 Fax (518) 696-7186

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