1
PARENT
HANDBOOK
A MESSAGE FROM DENISE,
Thank you for choosing Camp Hazen YMCA for your child’s summer
camp experience. We are all looking forward to being outside and
rebuilding connections with past friends and welcoming new ones.
As Executive Director of Camp Hazen YMCA, I know firsthand how truly
transformational summer camp can be in a child’s life. We believe that
outdoor experiences provide a critical opportunity for kids to be
themselves, learn more about the world around them, and grow in
confidence and independence. We know that campers leave Hazen
with memories that will last a lifetime.
This handbook is our traditional ‘how to’ guide and contains practical
information to help prepare both you and your child for your session(s)
at camp. While no two summers are exactly the same, we’re hoping
that this will help familiarize you with some of the procedures,
schedules and traditions that we have at Camp. If you have any
questions, please contact the camp office at (860) 526-9529.
Additional information can also be found on our website at
camphazenymca.org. There is a lot of detailed, helpful information
online, especially for new families.
To keep up to date with what’s going on with us throughout the year
you are welcome to find us on Facebook, by ‘liking’ Camp Hazen YMCA
and sending a friend request to Edward Hazen.
Best Regards,
Denise Learned
Executive Director/CEO
CAMP HAZEN YMCA DAY CAMP—SUMMER 2024
CAMP HAZEN YMCA
204 West Main St.
Chester, CT 06412
camphazenymca.org
WHAT’S NEXT?
JANUARY 1ST
Deposits are now non-refundable
MARCH 1ST
50% of remaining balance will be due
MAY 1ST
Full balance due
Forms Due
Health History
Physical Exam
Authorized to pick up
Camper Information
Individual Care Plan
Cabin Request
Check Grade
Set up Store Account
FOR CHECK IN
Packing List
Medication Authorizations signed
by prescriber
Medications in original containers
DURING CAMP
 Our Day Camp Leadership Staff
are available at check in and
check out each day.
 Call the office anytime if you
have any questions.
AFTER CAMP
Don’t forget to save your spot for
next summer. We’ll hold it until
September 1st.
PRO TIP
As camp gets closer it’s a great
idea to talk about the upcoming
experience as a family. Lots of
bite sized conversations are
better than one big sit down.
Check out the section on ‘Tips &
Tricks’.
2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Our Past, Your Future ......................................... 3
Staff ................................................................. 4
THE PARENT EXPERIENCE: BEFORE CAMP
Safety & Child Protection ........................................... 5
Balance & Refund Policy ............................................. 6
Forms ...................................................................... 6
Packing List .............................................................. 7
Missing Home, Tips & Tricks ....................................... 8
Conversation Starters ................................................ 8
THE PARENT EXPERIENCE: CHECK IN DAY
Directions ................................................................ 9
Check In Day Procedures ........................................... 9
Medications .............................................................. 9
THE CAMPER EXPERIENCE: CHECK IN DAY
What to expect on the first day .................................. 10
THE CAMPER EXPERIENCE: CAMP LIFE
Daily Schedule ......................................................... 11
Age Groups ............................................................. 11
Group Assignments .................................................. 11
Meals ..................................................................... 11
Activities, Beach Party, Fun Friday .............................. 12
Camp Culture .......................................................... 13
Behavior Agreement ................................................. 13
Birthdays ................................................................ 13
Spiritual Emphasis .................................................... 13
THE PARENT EXPERIENCE: DURING CAMP
Camper Care, Health & Wellness ................................ 14
Health Lodge ........................................................... 15
Insurance ............................................................... 15
THE PARENT EXPERIENCE: CHECK OUT DAY
Grievance Procedure ................................................. 16
Target 289 & Tipping ................................................ 16
Contact Info & Keeping in touch ................................. 16
THE PARENT EXPERIENCE: ADDITIONAL
Information for Parents on Protecting their Children ...... 17
Staff & Volunteer Code of Conduct .............................. 19
Staff Electronic Communication & Social Media C of C .... 21
Child Abuse Reporting & Response Procedures ............. 23
3
OUR PAST…
YOUR FUTURE
History
Since 1910, there had been talk of
establishing a summer camp for boys from all across the state. The Senator Edward
Hazen, a native of Haddam who had made his fortune in publishing, was the driving
force behind the plan for such a camp. Unfortunately, the First World War interrupted
these plans as the Y focused it’s efforts on supporting the troops in Europe. But with
Armistice in November, 1918 attention could once again focus on the home front.
This was one of those times when the will and the resources for such a project had
come together at just the right time. The only difficulty, it seemed, was finding the
right piece of land. A seven man committee met throughout 1919 trying to find the
perfect spot—something on the edge of a forest, by a lake and easily accessible from
all across the State. When the Committee next met on the evening of April 7th, Mr
F.A. Stanley, the State YMCA Boys Work Secretary, was appointed Director of Camp
Hazen. The price was set at $7.50 per week and the summer set up in four, two-week
sessions. In the very first advertising brochure, the new director, ‘Pop’ Stanley,
explained his plan to perspective parents — ”When the books are laid aside and the
long summer vacation begins for that boy of yours, what then? Here he lives in “the
great out doors”, rubs shoulders with the other fellow, learns the secret of the woods,
imbibes the spirit of the campfire, learns the lessons of nature...experiences which
send him back home thrilled for higher attainments in his own life and conduct.”
In the early years, traditions were formed that continue to this day. Campers still
enjoy campfires, cabin chats, singing, camping out in the woods, and the revered
Candlelight Ceremony.
It’s hard to believe that over 100,000 campers and staff have spent their summers on
the shores of Cedar Lake. So much has changed since our first summer of 1920, and
yet—so much remains the same. Our facilities have grown and expanded; our
activities and programs have changed and developed over time. Our campers and
staff, once from just Connecticut, now come from throughout New England, the
United States and from around the world. What remains the same is the nervous
anticipation of going to camp—whether it be your first time or your 10th; that
excitement you feel when you first pull in the entrance; the smile on your face when
you see your friends, the sense of confidence you feel when you push beyond your
comfort zone and try something you’ve never done before; that feeling of acceptance
when you realize that this is a place where you can be yourself; that calm,
peacefulness that you feel when looking out over Cedar Lake at yet another perfect
sunset.
Hazen has a long history of strong leadership. Since 1999, Denise Learned has been
Executive Director, following in the footsteps of Tim Milbern, Sue Edmonds, Russ
Gormley, Howard Bunting, Archie Knowles, and Pop Stanley. Under their careful
watch, the tradition and history of Camp Hazen has been passed from one generation
to the next.
Today, we continue to build strong kids. With an exceptional summer camp program
and a school group program that is unlike any other, Hazen remains committed to the
growth and development of kids.
THIS IS WHY:
OUR PROMISE:
Your child is our #1 priority.
Everything we do, every decision we
make, has your child’s safety and
well-being in mind.
OUR VALUES:
Our community is based on the
YMCA pillars of Caring, Honesty,
Respect, and Responsibility. We use
these values in our cabin groups, at
meals, and throughout the day.
OUR MISSION:
Camp Hazen YMCA is committed to
helping youth develop valuable life
skills through camping experiences
that build healthy bodies, open
minds, and awakened spirits.
OUR VISION:
To be a time and place in people’s
lives that they look back on and
smile. We hope we are a place
where people are always happy to
arrive, and hesitant to leave.
OUR CAUSE:
We believe that children should have
a Hazen experience, regardless of
their family’s ability to pay. Camp
Hazen YMCA has instituted a
voluntary 4-tier pricing program for
our Summer programs.
OUR BELIEF:
Camp Hazen YMCA is an inclusive
organization. Our doors are open to
everyone, from across all
dimensions of diversity, creating the
opportunity to learn from each
other. It is our belief that, in a
diverse world, we are stronger when
we are inclusive. We have a culture
of acceptance, and we know that it
is our differences that bring us
closer together.
OUR COMMITMENT:
We will continue to work for equity
for all, by questioning our personal
bias’ & privilege and the part we
play in systemic racism in our world,
in order to make camp a safe space
for all our campers and staff.
Philosophy
Camp Hazen YMCA has had over 100 years of creating experiences for
campers to enjoy activities, appreciate the outdoors, learn about
themselves and others, and grow as people. Our impact is measured by
the thousands who have attended Hazen throughout the years, who
know camp is so much more than the activities done and skills learned.
We believe that the community formed during a camp session allows
your child to gain experiences that peers at home may not, and these
positive experiences give your child the confidence to excel in so many
other aspects of their lives. A camp experience will bolster children’s
socialization skills, provide opportunities for leadership development,
and help them achieve their full potential.
4
YEAR ROUND
LEADERSHIP
TEAM
Denise Learned, Executive
Director/CEO
Denise has dedicated her career to
mission driven work. She started
her career at Hazen as the Summer
Camp Director. During the 90’s she
left camp to work as the Executive
Director of the Shoreline Soup
Kitchens, then returned to her
current role as Executive Director/
CEO of Camp Hazen YMCA in 1999.
Denise is an active member of
many professional networks and
committees including the YMCA
Independent Camp Group and the
CT Alliance of YMCA. She is also a Y
Guardian of Child protection
through the YMCA of USA.
Kath Davies, Camp Director
Kath joined the Professional Team
right out of University. She is well
known in the Camping Community
serving on the Board of Directors of
the CT Camping Associations, a
member of the Youth Camp Safety
Advisory Committee for the CT
Office of Early Childhood and on a
committee for the YMCA Camp
Cabinet for YMCA of the USA.
Kath will hold a New Parent
Orientation in advance of our first
session this summer. This call is
designed for parents that are new
to our Overnight Camp Program. It
will cover commonly asked
questions by new parents, as well
as give detailed information about
our program for this summer. If you
have specific topics that you’d like
to be covered, please feel free to
email in advance.
PROGRAM DEPARTMENT:
Alex Learned, Assistant Camp Director
Nicky Fauteux, Program Director
Konrad Matthaei, Program Director
SUPPORT:
Laurie Bouchard, Office Manager
Sarah Menzel, Business Manager
Carolyn Learned, Development
Alex Welch, Food Service Director
Mike Learned, Maintenance Director
Dan Feltus, Asst. Maintenance Director
Mark Lowrey, Construction Manager
SUMMER STAFF
Each session, we host 248 overnight campers entering grades three
through ten. Our 4:1 camper to staff ratio provides individual attention
and quality instruction and supervision in all aspects of camp life. Our
Staff is comprised of young adults from throughout the world.
All staff are chosen based on their desire and ability to act as positive
role models, their maturity, their commitment to children’s growth, and a
love of the camp community. All our cabin counselors are high school
graduates. Most have completed at least one year of college or have
been an Assistant Counselor with us last summer. All our Assistant
Counselors are long-time Hazen campers and have completed our
LEAdership Program the previous summer. In addition, Hazen works with
industry leading international staffing agencies to hire counselors and
support staff from around the world to expose campers to other cultures
and provide them with an international point of view.
A thorough background check is conducted on each staff member. This
includes a search of the Judicial Department for convictions matching the
prospective employees name and date of birth, the state child abuse
registry and the National Sex Offender Registry.
There are at least two staff living in each cabin with eight campers. Our
oldest campers live with one staff member and four/five other campers in
platform tents. Each of our five villages is led by a Village Director.
Village Directors are the primary contact for parents while children are ag
camp. Our Village Director team have several years of camp experience
and have demonstrated a superior level of maturity and skill working with
children.
STAFF TRAINING
Through mandatory pre-camp training, staff are trained to provide a safe
and encouraging environment. By
the time your camper arrives, our
staff are well prepared to help
them have a safe, fun, and
memorable summer.
Soft Skills
 During our intensive week of
Orientation before the campers
arrive, we make certain that our
staff are being taught the best
ways to ensure that they are
ready to advocate for each
individual camper.
 Staff learn to identify the social
and emotional needs of campers,
as well as the physical.
 Our orientation covers Camp
Philosophy, Camper
Management, Behavior Management, Child Protection, Village Life, and Lesson
Plans, and more.
Hard Skills
 Our staff are also fully trained in our Policies & Procedures on Camper Safety,
Water Safety, and Emergency Protocols.
 Our Waterfront and Adventure staff come for an extra week of certifications
and skills training, including American Red Cross Lifeguarding and American
Red Cross CPR.
5
SAFETY
Safety is always a top priority at Camp Hazen YMCA. In fact, our first
two rules at Hazen are 1. Have fun and 2. Be safe! We are focused on
children's safety, both physically and emotionally, while they are with
us at camp. It’s important for your child to know who the trusted
adults at camp are if they feel unsafe or uncomfortable. We
encourage you to talk to your child and explain that they should feel
comfortable coming to their counselors with anything that is bothering
them, just like they would to you at home. The Day Camp Leadership
team is also a group of people that they can come to with questions
while they are at camp.
In addition to being a licensed youth camp through the State of
Connecticut, Camp Hazen YMCA is considered a Pioneer in Camping
with the American Camp Association for its long history of dedication
to youth development. The American Camp Association (ACA) is the
leading authority for summer camps and youth development. They
work to preserve, promote, and improve the camp experience. Camp
Hazen YMCA is an accredited member of the ACA, and as part of our
membership, Hazen must adhere to strict guidelines which includes
the successful completion of both on-site visits and paperwork
reviews.
While our staff will make every reasonable effort to minimize known
risks associated with each activity, all hazards cannot be foreseen. By
participating in our programs, campers and their parents knowingly
and willingly assume all risks associated with participation in a
summer camp program. Campers and their parents should fully
understand that even after reasonable precautions have been taken,
occasional accidents do happen.
CHILD
PROTECTION
Camp Hazen YMCA was recently
selected for a pilot program to
participate in an accreditation process
with Praesidium, a leader in the field
of child protection, that uses decades
of data and methodology practices to
determine root-cause contributors in
cases of organizational abuse. This
accreditation process helps
organizations sustain the highest
standards in child abuse prevention.
This will publicly demonstrate our
commitment to safety and adherence
to the highest standards in abuse
prevention.
At the end of this guide you’ll find a
section that contains useful and vital
information you can use to keep your
child safe.
 Teach Your Children About Their
Bodies
 Physical Boundary Violations
 Emotional Boundary Violations
 Behavioral Boundary Violations
 How to Recognize Warning Signs
in Your Child
 Responding to Inappropriate
Behavior or Touch Your Child
Reports or sexual abuse
 How to support a loved one who
has experienced abuse or
exploitation.
In keeping with the regulations for
youth camps in the State of
Connecticut, here is a link to the
Department of Children and Families
Safe Sports Policy—Child Abuse
Prevention:
Checkout info from the DCF on
Child Abuse Prevention
BEFORE CAMP
THE PARENT EXPERIENCE
6
FORMS - NEED TO BE SUBMITTED ONLINE BY MAY 1
ST
.
To begin, log in to your CampInTouch account, then click on Forms & Documents
FORMS & DOCUMENTS FOR EACH CAMPER
1. Health History
 This form must be completed annually, by a parent or legal guardian.
 The last page is an Authorization, Release, and Indemnity Waiver.
2. Physical Exam & Immunization Record
 The physical examination form must be current within 36 months of your campers
last day in camp.
 Please upload a copy of your child's most recent physical exam and immunization
record. You may use the form we provide online, a copy of your school physical, or
your states health exam form.
 In the event your child has not received immunizations, as per the State of
Connecticut Office of Early Childhood, you must provide us with an Immunization
Waiver. There are two acceptable forms of documentation for this waiver, please
contact the office for details.
3. Individual Care Plan
 The State of Connecticut states an individual plan of care is necessary when a child
has a special health care need or disability and it is necessary that special care be
taken or provided while the child is at the youth camp.
4. Camper Information for the Counselor
 This is for BOTH you and your camper to complete. This information is essential to
help your child meet any specific goals you or they may have and to ensure a
positive experience for all campers. This includes your Type of Cabin preference.
5. Medication Authorization Form Bring to Check In with Medication
 This form must be completed for a camper to receive any medications (prescription
or over-the counter) brought from home.
 This form must be signed by both a parent/guardian AND a prescribing health care
professional, even for over-the-counter medications like vitamins.
 You must complete one form for each medication brought to camp and the
information on this form must match the label on the medication.
 Please review this form carefully before coming to camp. We are unable to dispense
medications to campers without this properly completed form.
 The medications must be in the original containers and properly labelled. This
includes epi-pens and inhalers -- often the label is on the box and parents don’t
realize they MUST bring that box with the label, as mandated by both the State of
Connecticut and the American Camp Association.
6. Additional Medical Paperwork
 Use this space to upload any additional medical documents, for example, a letter
from a therapist, a management plan for diabetes or asthma, or other medical/
emotional conditions or concerns.
7. Camper Photo
 Use this link to upload or update your camper’s photo!
8. Financial Assistance
 We believe that every child deserves a camp experience, regardless of their family's
ability to pay. Please complete this form if you would like to apply for our Financial
Assistance Program. Call us anytime on (860) 526-9529.
FORMS & DOCUMENTS FOR YOUR FAMILY
1. Authorized to pick up
 Please list all adults, including parents, that are authorized to pick up your
child from camp.
BEFORE CAMP
THE PARENT EXPERIENCE
BALANCE &
REFUND
POLICY
50% of your balance of camp
fees is due by March 1st. The
remaining balance is due by
May 1st. These will be
automatically charged to your
default credit card on file.
To set up an automatic
payment plan, please call the
Camp Office.
If final payment is not
received by the due date, your
registration may be cancelled,
and your deposit forfeited.
VISA, MasterCard, American
Express, Discover or e-check
may be used to charge your
balance.
Camp Hazen YMCA will refund
program fees for cancellations
made 30 days prior to the
start of the session (less
deposit). No refund is made
for late arrivals or early
departures or in cases of
homesickness, withdrawal,
dismissal, or sickness.
7
WHAT TO BRING?
We recommend each child to have their own backpack so they can keep all their belongings
together for the day.
PLEASE CAREFULLY
LABEL ALL ITEMS.
Pack together with your
camper. This allows your
camper to know where
everything is and to develop a
sense of responsibility. This is
also a good time to talk about
the experiences ahead and
build the excitement. It’s
also a good time to talk about
personal responsibility, being
in a community setting and
your expectations about their
interactions with others.
There is a lost and found at
the Waterfront and the Day
Camp Pavilion, encourage
your child to check it out if
they have lost something.
Camp Hazen YMCA is NOT
responsible for any items that
are lost or stolen.
IN YOUR BACKPACK
Face Masks (optional)
Bathing Suit
Towel
Hat
Sweatshirt
Raincoat
Sneakers
Water bottle
Insect repellant
Sunscreen
Please carefully label ALL of your
camper's items.
Campers may wish to bring small
non-electronic games or cards to
play with ONLY during Before or
After Care time. They may do so,
but it is the responsibility of your
camper to keep their possessions
safe. Camp Hazen will NOT be
held responsible for any lost or
stolen items.
WHAT NOT TO
BRING
We are completely unplugged,
which means…No Electronics.
Period.
Campers should NOT bring any of
the following items:
 Cash
 Any electronic device (iPods, electronic
games, e-readers, electric fans,
computers, cell phones)
 Food
 Pets
 Fireworks
 Water guns
 Vehicles
 Tobacco products
 Drugs OR drug paraphernalia
 Alcohol
 Weapons of any type
If a camper brings any of these
items to camp, the item will be
confiscated and either sent home
or held until the end of the
session. Campers found in
possession of weapons, drugs,
alcohol or drug paraphernalia will
immediately be dismissed from
camp.
Unplugged experience — No Wi-Fi = better
connection
To help children develop independence, and to maintain a safe
environment,
Camp Hazen maintain a ‘No Cell Phone’ policy. Not only
are cell phones disruptive to a child’s camp experience, but they are
also expensive and can easily get lost or stolen. We want our campers
to have an experience in a natural environment and reconnect with
friends and nature. We also believe that not having instant access to a
cellphone promotes independence and personal problem solving, as
campers are compelled to find solutions on their own or ask one of our
fully trained staff for help. We request that you communicate this policy
to your child before their arrival at camp and encourage letter writing as
their means of contact so that there are no surprises upon arrival. Talk
about the experiences ahead and about your expectations, including
setting realistic goals about how often they can expect to hear from you
and you from them.
BEFORE CAMP
THE PARENT EXPERIENCE
8
MISSING HOME
Missing home is a natural feeling, even in Day Camp,
and the counselors are there to help. There are many
things you can do to help your child be successful at
camp. Express confidence in your child’s ability to
succeed. Be assured that our staff is well trained to
identify and help campers who are missing home.
THE PARENT EXPERIENCE
BEFORE CAMP
CONVERSATIONS
STARTERS...
The following are some sample topics for discussion that will help prepare your child emotionally for their big
adventure at camp:
Friends: “Camp is about making new friends. If you are shy about meeting new kids, then learn to get to know
others by being a good listener. Ask questions. Share what you have. Join in. Remember that not everyone in your
group has to be your best friend. As long as you treat others with respect and they do the same with you, then
you will have a few good friends at camp and that is fine. Of course, if you have more, that’s great!”
Activities: “There are many exciting things to do at camp, many of which you may never have tried before. You
may not like all the activities or you may be better at some than others. That’s normal. I do, however, expect you
to try. The more you put into camp, the more you will get out of it.”
Respect: “No matter how you feel about anyone else, I expect you to treat people with respect. It is OK to
sometimes have angry feelings.....it is not OK to do angry things. If you are having trouble with another camper,
you can always talk to your counselor, Jake, or Nicky - the Program Directors, Alex, the Senior Program Director,
or Kath - the Camp Director.”
Getting help: “Everyone has good days and bad days. If you are having a problem, your counselor is there to
help you! You don’t have to wait to tell us if you are upset about something. After all, if your counselor doesn’t
know what might be troubling you, they can’t help you. Be honest and ask for what you need. If your counselor
doesn’t seem to be concerned or doesn’t help you, then you can go to your Village Director, or Kath, Alex, Jake, or
Nicky.”
Self-image: A great thing to remind your first-time camper about is what their strong points are. I would focus
not just on what they do well, but their positive qualities as well, such as what makes them a good friend or the
type of person other kids would want to know. Helping children to identify their strengths can help them when
they are having a set back - one of the inevitable growing pains all children have from time to time.
Talking with your child about these kinds of issues is a great way to support them as they get ready to take this
important step on the road to independence.
TIPS & TRICKS
Sending your child to camp for the first
time is a major milestone for most fami-
lies, one that is often marked with excite-
ment, anticipation and perhaps even some
anxiety. Though camp is certainly about
making friends and having fun, it is also
about being on your own and being part of
a community. One of the most important
things you, as a parent, can do to help
prepare your child for both of these as-
pects of camp is to talk with your child
about it before they go. In fact, it may be
better to have several brief talks rather
than one long conversation, as children
often absorb more when there is less to
think about at one time. Children usually
do better with this sort of conversation if it
is part of a more general discussion, either
at the dinner table or while riding in the
car doing errands.
9
THE PARENT EXPERIENCE
205 West Main Street
Chester, CT 06412
From th e North: Take Route 9 South to
Exit 8. Turn right at the bottom of
the ramp onto Route 148W. Parking
for Camp Hazen is 1.5 miles on the
left. Please follow the guidance of
our signs and parking attendants.
From th e South: Take I-95 to Route 9
North (Exit 69). Follow Route 9 to
Exit 8. Turn left at the end of the
ramp onto Route 148W. Parking for
Camp Hazen is 1.5 miles on the left.
Please follow the guidance of our
signs and parking attendants.
DIRECTIONS TO
CAMP HAZEN
CHECK IN DAY
Check-in for each session is at 8:45am on the Monday the
session starts. Regular camp hours are 9am-4pm.
If your camper is registered for Before Care, you may arrive any
time after 7:30am (if your child arrives any time before 8am,
breakfast is included. If your child arrives after 8am, please
make certain your child has eaten breakfast).
We love pets as much as you and your family, however, please
leave your pets at home.
If your child will not be attending camp on any given day, please
call the office to let us know. One of the Day Camp Program
Directors will call any absentee camper families before 10am if
we haven't heard from you already.
CHECK-IN DAY PROCEDURES:
1. Upon arrival at camp, pull into the north side of camp, to our
Gateway Pavilion. You will be directed by signs and Hazen staff
members.
2. You’ll stay in your car and sign in your camper find out what group
your camper is in.
3. If you have any outstanding paperwork, you’ll be directed to our
Farmhouse Office across the street.
4. If you need to speak to the nurse you can park and walk to the
courtyard next to the pavilion.
5. Say good-bye. Experience has shown us the transition from home to
camp is eased by short good-byes that allow your child to jump right
into camp life. If you want to stay and get more information, please
feel free to do so, but allow your camper to join their group while
you speak with the staff.
MEDICATIONS
All medications must be
checked in with the camp
nurse. No medications can
be kept in the cabins,
including over-the-counter
medication and vitamins.
Have your Medication
Authorization Form
prepared.
If you are bringing any
medications from home
(prescription or over the
counter, including vitamins
& topical ointments), you
must have a completed
medication authorization
form for EACH medication.
This form MUST be signed
by BOTH a parent/guardian
AND the authorized
prescriber.
ALL MEDICATION MUST BE
IN THEIR ORIGINAL
CONTAINER, WITH A LABEL THAT
MATCHES THE MEDICATION
6
Old Exit 8
Old Exit 6
10
THE CAMPER EXPERIENCE
Check In -
Meet your group
Our counselors will be ready to
meet you at your groups table and
welcome you. There will be small
table games to play as we wait for
all the campers in your group to
arrive
Program Time - Time to start the fun! Could be anything from
sports, crafts, fun in the woods, climbing, archery, boating...
All Camp Assembly - The kick off to
each day. Announcements, songs,
awards—a great way to create community
as we start the day.
Camp tour - Once all the
campers in your group
have arrived, your
counselors will take you on
a tour of camp to show you
the important places you’ll
need to know for the
session! You’ll find out
about the different
activities and learn about
important emergency
procedures during the tour
as well.
Health Lodge Visit - On your tour
you’ll also stop by the Health Lodge to
say hello to the nurses.
Swim Evaluation— After the tour, you head to the lake for a
quick swim evaluation. Our goal is to make the swim evaluation
as fun and comfortable as possible, while determining an
accurate level of swimming ability. We believe that swim safety
and skills are important, swim lessons are part of the program for
all campers
Lunch - We eat outside for lunch. The first day is usually
mac & cheese with chicken tenders, a big hit! If you have
special dietary, just be sure to write those on the health
history form.
Snack - Time to come back to the Pavilion and be
ready for check out. Sit with your group, reflect on the
day, make sure you have all your belongings!
Before & After Care - Each morning
and late afternoon will have some low key
activities going on to keep everyone
entertained, but also give folks time to
relax before or after a long day of camp.
Pick Up - It’s drop off, but in reverse. Parents will pull in, give their
campers name (bonus points for giving the group name!) and we’ll
announce it over the loud speaker. Parents will pull forward, show their ID
while staff walk campers to their car
CHECK IN DAY
7:30-8:50am Before Care
8:50-9:10am Check In
9:15am All Camp
Assembly
9:30am Camp Tour
10:30am Swim Evaluation
11:30am Lunch
12:30pm Activity Period
1:30pm Activity Period
2:30pm Activity Period
3:30pm Snack Time
4:00pm Pick up
4:00-6:00pm After Care
Photo - Everyone will get their headshot,
so we have an updated photo on file.
11
SCHEDULE OF THE DAY
7:30 am Before Care
8:00 am Breakfast
9:00 am Drop off
9:15 am All Camp Assembly
9:30 am Activity 1
10:30 am Activity 2
11:30 am Lunch
12:30 pm Activity 3
1:30 pm Activity 4
2:30 pm Activity 5
3:30 pm Snack Time
4:00 pm Pick up
4:15 pm– 6:00pm After Care
CAMP LIFE
You’ll be in a group with 8-12 other campers.
Each group has a staff member that is their group
leader for the session. This is your home base for
the session and where best friends are made.
You’ll do activities with friends in your group and
join up with other groups for larger activities.
Each group is a member of a color team that has
a community feel to it and gives you a sense of
belonging to a larger family within the camp.
THE CAMPER EXPERIENCE
LIFE AT CAMP
AGE GROUPS
Our camp is divided into 3 age groups or that help to make every camper’s experience age appropriate:
Yellow - younger campers (grades 1-2)
Red - middle campers (grades 3-4)
Blue - oldest campers (grades 5-7)
GROUP ASSIGNMENTS
We believe that camp is a great place for children to meet new people. We understand that many campers come
to camp with a friend, however we are concerned with the comfort and happiness of all of our campers and must
consider the dynamics of the entire group. For this to happen, we have limited friend requests to one per
camper. Requests must be for campers of the same grade and must be mutual
Complete the bunk requests form under the Forms and Documents tab on your CampInTouch account to request
a friend to be in the same group.
If you have a special situation or concern, PLEASE call us ahead of time.
MEALS
Campers eat meals family-style with their group outside our
Dining Hall. Each camper takes a turn to be the representative
for the table. Our two-week cycle menu is nutritionally balanced
and designed to appeal to most appetites. Fresh fruit and salad
are always available, in addition to a daily vegetarian selection
for those that require it. We are very used to having campers
that are ‘picky eaters’, we will work with them to try a ‘no-thank
-you-helping’ but we will also make sure everyone gets
something to eat! Our Food Service Staff are able to
accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, and dairy free
substitution in our meals. We do not prepare any meals with
peanuts or tree-nuts. If your child has specific needs, please
contact us ahead of time.
12
CAMP
ACTIVITIES
While your child is at camp
they will participate in a
wide range activities. Here
at Camp Hazen, all
activities are designed to
be both age and
developmentally
appropriate. The Day Camp
program is also designed
around the concept of
progressive programing.
This means, that as your
camper returns year after
year, they will have new
activities to look forward
to. This progression then
continues onto our
overnight camp program
where campers then have
even more new activities to
participate in. The schedule
in Day Camp is preset prior
to the session starting.
Most of the activities are
scheduled once in either
week. Changes and
adaptations are made if
need be due to weather,
etc. Below is a chart of the
activities each color group
participates in session.
THE CAMPER EXPERIENCE
LIFE AT CAMP
BEACH PARTY
Each day all groups have a period of Beach Party. This is more
unstructured time of the day where campers can either choose to go
swimming, or play the sport which is offered that day. Each day after
lunch there is also a period of Siesta. This is a time that each group
goes to a shady spot to take a bit of a rest and play quiet games.
Yellow Groups
(1
st
& 2
nd
Grade)
Red Groups
(3
rd
& 4
th
Grade)
Blue Groups
(5
th
—7
th
Grade)
Arts & Crafts
Candle Making
Canoe Rides
Climbing Wall
Fishing
Five Pillars
Fort Building
Gaga
Games In The Woods
Kickball
Nerf Archery
Outdoor Cooking
Relays
Sandcastles
Scavenger Hunt
Sport
Swim Lessons
Water Mat
Water Slide
Archery
Arts & Crafts
Candle Making
Canoeing
Climbing Wall
Fishing
Five Pillars
Gaga
Games In The Woods
Giant Swing
Kayaking
Outdoor Cooking
Sport
Swim Lessons
Treasure Hunting
Ultimate Frisbee
Water Trampoline
Alpine Tower
Archery
Arts & Crafts
Candle Making
Climbing Wall
Fishing
Five Pillars
Gaga
Giant Swing
Kayaking
Outdoor Cooking
Paddleboarding
Skate Park
Sport
Swim Lessons
Tie Dye
Ultimate Frisbee
Zipline
FUN FRIDAY
The last day in each session is called Fun Friday. The morning is
dedicated to an all camp activity. Each session the all camp activity is
different, themes we typically run during the summer are a Carnival
and Day Camp Olympics. After lunch campers have an extended beach
party and then their choice activity. A few days prior to Fun Friday,
campers will get a chance to choose what Fun Friday Choice Activity
they want to do. With the help of their counselor, they choose their top
three choices from a list of about eight activities. The final part of Fun
Friday is our closing ceremony where we hand out awards for the
session including swim certificates for anyone who moved up a swim
level.
13
CAMP CULTURE
As a close-knit community, Camp Hazen YMCA expects each camper to
respect themselves and others at camp, as well as the facilities and natural
surroundings. Staff will work with campers to help them assimilate to the
camp community. Our Leadership Staff will contact you if we need any advice
on handling a particular situation with your child. If it comes to the point
where a camper is placed on a written “behavior contract” to help address
recurring inappropriate behaviors, you would certainly be notified. The terms
of the “contract” will be made very clear to both the camper and parent.
All members of the Camp Hazen community, including campers and staff, are
expected to behave responsibly and appropriately at all times. Coming to
camp means coming to a place or support, inclusion, and safety. Here, we
teach to respect those around us and build others up in a place of diversity.
BIRTHDAYS
We love celebrating birthdays at
Hazen! Each camper who has a
birthday during the camp
session will celebrate with our
special Hazen birthday song and
a cake for their cabin at lunch
that day.
SPIRITUAL EMPHASIS
Camp Hazen is an independent
YMCA. We focus on honesty,
caring, respect and
responsibility through sensitive
and mature leadership. We live
in a community that holds a
system of values and a positive
atmosphere, rather than an
emphasis on a particular
religious faith.
THE CAMPER EXPERIENCE
LIFE AT CAMP
BEHAVIOR AGREEMENT
If a camper is unable to live in unity with their group mates, after some conversations, they may be dismissed
for the remainder of the day, their session or the rest of the summer for a serious infraction, at the discretion of
the Camp Director. Behaviors which may result in having a conversation with parents and/or being dismissed
from camp include but are not limited to the following: use of bad language, threats, fighting or bullying, any
form of abuse towards another camper, and possession or use of tobacco, drugs or alcohol.
We ask all our campers to agree to the following:
I agree that while participating in programs at Camp Hazen YMCA:

I will listen and follow all safety instructions given to me by Hazen Staff
 I will be respectful of those around me
 I will be responsible for my belongings and my actions
 I will care for the Camp environment and the equipment I use
 I will be honest when I do not understand and ask questions
I understand that disrespectful behavior is not tolerated in the Hazen Community. If I am having a
hard time, the following steps will be taken:

Conversation with Counselor
 Conversation with Leadership Staff
 Conversation with a Director
 Placed on a Behavior Contract, parents will be informed
 Dismissal from Camp Hazen YMCA
14
Ticks & Lyme Disease
Campers spend most of
their time outside at
camp. Many of our
program areas are
wooded and we expect
that children will come in
contact with ticks. Each
child showers daily, which
should wash off any tick
that has not yet
imbedded. It is also an
opportunity for them to
check themselves for
ticks. Staff are well-
trained to encourage
campers to check
themselves for ticks. For
privacy reasons,
counselors do not check
campers for ticks. You will
be notified of any
reported tick bite or rash
that appears during your
child’s stay at camp if the
nurse is concerned. You
should check your
camper regularly for
ticks during their stay at
camp and after any
outdoor activity and
encourage them to see
the nurse if they ever
have any medical
concern.
CAMPER CARE
Our counselors are completely focused on ensuring the social and emotional well-being of all of their campers. Our
number one goal at Hazen is to make sure that every camper is having the best experience they can have. We
understand that some campers need a little extra support during their time with us, our staff is well trained in
many common camper scenarios and know how to make sure each child is participating in camp in a way that is
right for them. We believe that summer camp is a unique experience for children to improve their mental and
physical health, as well as develop in ways that are not frequently emphasized in a school environment. We
request that parents and guardians give us as much information as possible on their camper’s health forms so that
we can best serve your child’s needs while they are at camp.
THE PARENT EXPERIENCE
DURING CAMP
HEALTH & WELLNESS
We are very lucky to have such a robust and qualified team of health care
professionals on camp, we also ensure that our counselors are trained to
monitor the personal hygiene and cleanliness of our campers each day.
Cabins have scheduled time every morning to clean their space and
organize their belongings, as well as a dedicated shower time each day.
Staff also often remind campers to wash their hands, and we have hand
sanitizer at specific entrances to buildings.
As campers spend the majority of their time outside at camp, campers are
responsible to bring their own protective clothing, sunscreen & water
bottle. Hazen Staff will remind campers to apply sunscreen & carry their
water bottle regularly throughout the day.
Prior to arrival we strongly recommend you check your child for head lice
and treat as needed.
15
CONCUSSION
Campers will participate in
a variety of activities while
at camp. As with all
physical activities there is
a chance that a child may
receive a concussion. In
the event that a child
shows signs of a
concussion they will be
evaluated by a member of
our healthcare staff and
will be removed from
activities until assessed by
our camp doctor or
medical facility, if it is
deemed necessary. We
are required by the State
of Connecticut to provide
you with the information
on Concussions, please
turn to the end of this
booklet for details.
HEALTH LODGE
The health and safety of our campers is our number
one priority. To be a licensed youth camp in the state of
Connecticut we are required to have a registered nurse
(RN) on site. We have two or three RNs on camp per
session.
In case of illness or accident, our RN's work under
Standing Orders from Dr Nicholas Condulis, MD, from
Wildwood Pediatrics in Essex.
Our Health Lodge is stocked with a number of over-the
-counter medications which the nurses can administer
also. These medications are listed on our Health History
Form.
Any other medications a camper needs while at Hazen
must be brought to camp in the original container and
be accompanied by a Medication Authorization Form
that is signed by both a parent/guardian and the
prescriber. All medications, other than emergency
medication such as Epi-Pens and asthma inhalers, must
be kept in the Health Lodge.
For Day Campers, our Nurses will work directly with
the group leader to ensure your child gets their
medication at the correct time of day.
In case of emergency, campers are taken to the camp
physician at Wildwood Pediatrics, or the local
emergency treatment facility, Shoreline Medical Center
– Middlesex Hospital.
Parents will be contacted should there be an urgent
medical concern, or in the following instances:
 Camper stays in the Health Lodge for a significant
part of the day
 Camper visits the nurse multiple times with the
same complaint
 Campers require a medical visit to an outside
provider.
If your camper requires a visit to an outside medical
provider, the nurses will make every effort to contact
you prior to leaving camp. In the event we are unable
to contact you, the nurses will make the determination
whether an outside medical visit is necessary.
THE PARENT EXPERIENCE
DURING CAMP
INSURANCE
You, as the parent or
guardian, are responsible for
all medical costs incurred due
to injury or illness while your
child is at camp. In an effort
to keep camp costs within
reason, Camp Hazen YMCA
does not provide health/
accident insurance.
If there is a fee for any
medical services, including
prescriptions, and we have
not received payment by the
end of your child's Camp
Session, we will charge the
last credit card we have on
file.
If you have any questions
with regards to health care at
camp, please feel free to call
Kath Davies, our Camp
Director.
WATER TESTING
Cedar Lake is a spring-fed 68-acre lake. The many underground springs
flowing into the lake contribute to low levels of bacteria and help to keep it
cleaner than many other lakes in Connecticut. Both the Town of Chester and
Camp Hazen YMCA conduct independent water tests to ensure that the lake
is safe for recreational swimming.
16
TARGET 289
Through Target 289, Camp
Hazen YMCA’s Annual Giving
Campaign, our goal is to provide
financial assistance to 289
children who could not afford to
attend Hazen otherwise. As a non
-for-profit youth servicing
organization, we believe in
teaching philanthropy. Your child
will learn about Target 289 while
at camp and have the
opportunity to support it by
donating $0.50, $1.00 or $2.89
from their store account. If you
choose to donate the remainder
of your child's store account,
rather than requesting a refund,
it also goes to Target 289. If you
want to recognize a specific staff
member, you can donate to
Target 289 in their name.
TIPPING
If you would like to recognize a
staff member for the job they
have done, a contribution in their
name may be made to Target 289.
Our Staff know that it is against
camp policy and the standards of
the American Camp Association for
staff members to accept tips.
EVALUATIONS & SURVEYS & GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE
Each session, campers are asked to complete surveys on their last
day. In addition, we will e-mail you with the link to an on-line
evaluation. We appreciate you taking the time to complete our
evaluation as it helps us to determine what is working and what may
need to be changed. Your positive comments as well as your
constructive criticism are needed for the continued growth of our
facilities and programs and in order for us to best meet the needs of
all future Hazen families!
You are always welcome to reach out to Kath Davies, Camp Director or
Denise Learned, Executive Director/CEO with specific concerns. We
are available throughout the year. You can call us at (860) 526-9529,
email us at [email protected] or
[email protected] respectively or write to us at 204 West
Main Street, Chester, CT 06412. We will respond to all
communications in a timely manner and do our utmost to resolve any
situation that may have arisen.
THE PARENT EXPERIENCE
CHECK OUT DAY
Don’t
forget to
save
your spot
for next
summer!
CONTACT INFORMATION
Address: 204 West Main St. Chester, CT 06412
Website: www.camphazenymca.org
Phone Number: 860-526-9529
KEEPING IN TOUCH
Our camp office is open throughout the year. Please feel free to contact us
at any time at (860) 526-9529 or [email protected]
In order to protect your family’s privacy, we do not distribute personal
mailing addresses, phone numbers, or email addresses for campers or
staff. Campers may obtain this information from other campers
themselves if they wish to stay in touch.
We strive to help Hazen campers develop healthy, positive relationships at
camp and hope that this will carry over to any communications outside of
camp, including through the internet. However, as youth development
professionals, we are very aware that many young people do engage in
inappropriate communication online. For help in ensuring that your child is
safe on-line, a great resource is www.wiredsafety.org.
We also ask our staff not to have contact with your children after camp.
We utilize our Facebook page, as well as our Edward Hazen profile so
friends of Hazen can interact in a public forum.
Camp staff are hired for the summer and we are not able to monitor their
actions off-season. We recommend that you supervise your child’s online
activities just as you do other aspects of their life in your home. We need
you to take full responsibility for any off-season contact your child has
with friends and staff from Camp Hazen. Please do not hesitate to contact
the camp office if you have any concerns.
17
INFORMATION FOR PARENTS ON PROTECTING CHILDREN
Even very young children can learn skills to help keep themselves safe from sexual abuse, but it is often up to
parents/guardians to help them learn what they need to know. Here are some important things you can teach your
child to stay safe. (Note: many of these tips may be applicable to parents/guardians of individuals with disabilities.)
TEACH YOUR CHILDREN ABOUT THEIR BODIES
Names of all Parts of Their Bodies. Talk to your child about the proper names for body parts, and use the proper name
for private parts in that discussion This will give your child the correct words to use when he/she needs to tell you anything about
his/her body, like an injury or rash or other problem in that area.
Rules About Appropriate Physical Touch. Children understand the idea of rules. They know there are rules about
hitting and biting, rules about playing nicely with others, and rules about being safe, like wearing seat belts. So, as you teach these
rules, just add rules about appropriate physical touch. Say things like, “Never let other people touch your private parts,” or “Never
let anyone make you touch their private parts either.”
What to do if Someone Tries to Break the Rules. Your children need to know what to do when someone breaks the
rules about touching them. They need to know:
What to say to someone who breaks the rules about touching,
To move away from someone who is breaking the rules about touching, and
To tell you or another adult if someone breaks the rules about touching.
Teach your child to say, “No!” Or “No! Don’t touch my private parts.” Or “My body is private.
You can’t touch me there.” Or “Leave me alone.” Or simply “Don’t do that.” Teach your child to say this to other children as well
as to adults. Practice saying phrases like these with your child.
Teach your child to move away from anyone who is breaking the rules about touching. Tell your child that it’s ok to
get out of someone’s lap or pull away from a hug, even if an adult tells or asks you to sit on their lap or hug them.
Teach your child to tell you or another trusted adult, like a teacher or caregiver, if someone breaks the rules about
touching them. Keep telling someone until they respond and does
something about it.
TIPS FOR PROTECTING
HOW OFFENDERS OPERATE (APC) ACCESS, PRIVACY, CONTROL
HOW TO RECOGNIZE BOUNDARY VIOLATIONS:
PHYSICAL
BOUNDARY
VIOLATIONS
 Tickling,
 Horseplay,
 Hugging,
 Massaging,
 Wrestling, and
 Going overboard
with affection.
EMOTIONAL BOUNDARY VIOLATIONS
 Making them feel overly important, cared about,
understood,
 Spending too much time with them,
 Choosing favorites,
 Giving gifts, and
 Acting possessive.
 Sending excessive or inappropriate text messages,
 Pretending to be the consumer’s friend on social
networking sites like Facebook,
 Sharing personal information to make the consumer
feel like they have a special
 relationship
 Promising extra coaching time, a college scholarship,
a place on a national team, or
 even a spot on the Olympic Team!
BEHAVIORAL BOUNDARY
VIOLATIONS
Offenders manipulate kids into doing
things they would not otherwise do, such
as:
 Sneaking around by saying they will
be in one place when they are in
another,
 Keeping secrets with the offender,
 Looking at pornography, and
 Using drugs or alcohol.
18
HOW TO RESPOND TO WARNING SIGNS
Follow these five steps:
1. Keep your eyes and ears open.
2. Talk with your child or loved one.
3. Then, ask them about your concerns.
4. If what you learn from your them or if what you’ve observed or overheard sounds like abuse, call Child Protective Services or local
law enforcement.
5. If what you learn from them, or if what you’ve observed or overheard, sounds like a boundary violation, suspicious or inappropriate
behavior, or a policy violation, then:
Share your concerns with the employee and/or with his supervisor and/or with the person in charge of your organization.
If you are unable to do this, you can share your concerns with a Director,
HOW TO RECOGNIZE WARNING SIGNS IN YOUR CHILD
Now let’s talk about what you can do if someone is breaking rules about touching your child. No one knows your
child better than you. So, as parents/guardians, watch for warning signs, listen for warning signs, and follow up
when you see or hear warning signs. If something is wrong, you may see a sudden change in your child’s behavior,
or you may hear unusual comments. If you see or hear these things, follow up. Find a relaxed time to talk one-on-
one with your child.
RESPONDING TO INAPPROPRIATE BEHAVIOR OR TOUCH YOUR CHILD REPORTS
If your child tells you about inappropriate behavior or you witness it, such as someone who
is too physical with him/her or who makes him/her uncomfortable, ask him/her to give you an example. If the
interaction was inappropriate, but not actual abuse - talk with his/her teacher or caregiver. Specify your concern and
check back with your child and with the teacher. Abuse can be very private and embarrassing, so keep in mind that
your child may not say anything at all.
HOW TO RESPOND IF YOUR CHILD TELLS YOU ABOUT SEXUAL ABUSE
Your response plays a big role in how your child understands the abuse and how he/she
recovers. You may find yourself in a situation where a person confides in you that he or she has been
sexually abused by a teacher, family member, another consumer, a coach, or other trusted
adult. If this happens, follow these four steps:
STEP 1: LISTEN.
• Do your best to stay calm and let the person talk. Don’t pry but you can ask a few questions that will help you
understand what happened.
STEP 2. REASSURE.
• The person may be scared, angry, confused and crying. You can reassure them with a few simple comments like:
“I know how hard this is to talk about.” “You are very brave for bringing this out.”
“Don’t worry, you are doing the right thing by letting someone know.” “This isn’t your fault. You’ve done nothing
wrong.”
“I’m very sorry this has happened to you.”
STEP 3. PROTECT.
Make sure the person is safe. Do not let the accused person have any further contact with
him or her and tell the victim-survivor you will do everything you can to keep him or her safe and/or supported. Let
them know you must share what he or she has told you with others who can help.
STEP 4. REPORT.
Write down as quickly as you can everything the person shared with you in as much detail as possible, using the
person’s actual words, not your own interpretation. To report concerns or suspected abuse, call your local police
department.
It’s up to us as adults to do all we can to prevent child sexual abuse. It’s up to all of us, especially parents/
guardians, to create safe environments for children. Teaching them about their bodies, recognizing warning signs,
and responding to yours and your child concerns are important first steps.
19
TIPS FOR PARENTS/GUARDIANS WHEN TALKING WITH CHILDREN
This information is designed to help you talk to your child in situations where there is a possibility that he or she
might reveal information about inappropriate boundaries they have experienced with an adult or another consumer.
It may be difficult to do but it’s important to try to stay calm when you speak with your child. Your demeanor will
communicate more than your words. Children can be traumatized by emotional, angry or accusatory reactions.
THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE TALKING WITH YOUR CHILD ABOUT SENSITIVE SUBJECTS:
 Timing and atmosphere are very important. Choose a calm, unhurried, private time to talk with your child.
 Before beginning this type of conversation, be sure you’re ready. Be calm, emotionally controlled and confident.
You want to communicate to your child that you are open to discussing this topic and that you can handle
whatever they need to tell you.
 If this is difficult for you to talk about, practice first with a friend, your spouse or in a mirror.
 Use simple, conversational language, gauged to your child’s level of understanding.
 Do not make the talk scary or gloomy. Self-protection is an issue to discuss with children on a regular basis.
Conversations such as this should be a positive learning experience for children so that they feel comfortable
talking about their bodies. This also increases the chances that your child will seek your advice in the future.
Remember, “If you can’t talk about it, you can’t protect it.”
 If your child shares difficult information, stay calm. Do not say, “Why didn’t you tell me?” Do let the child
continue to talk. Say that you are proud that he or she found a way to get help. If you are at all agitated, it may
be best to wait until you have a chance to contact a local resource to continue the discussion. Tell your child,
“I’m really proud that you’ve shared this with me, and I think we should continue this discussion when we can
get some extra help from a counselor who has helped other children with these things. How does that sound?”
HOW TO BEGIN:
START THE CONVERSATION CASUALLY.
 “How was your day? Or “What did you do at school today?” or “It’s nice to have a chance to sit and talk for a
minute, isn’t it?”
IDENTIFY THE CIRCUMSTANCES IN QUESTION.
 “How is everything going at camp?” “What is your favorite thing to do there?”; “What is your least favorite thing
to do?”; “Has anyone made you feel uncomfortable?”
 “Remember that if anyone makes you feel uncomfortable you should tell mommy, daddy, a teacher or another
grown up you trust.”
 “You know it’s very important that if anything like that happened to you that you tell me right away, right? That
way I can make sure you are safe.”
QUESTIONS IF YOU AND YOUR CHILD WANT TO CONTINUE TO TALK.
 “Tell me more, I’m listening.”
 Your child may be uncomfortable so you will want to do what you can to put him or her at ease. Sitting close,
using a calm voice tone, giving a hug or keeping your arm around him or her will help.
 You can also say something like, “Honey, you know I love you very much and I’m concerned that you might be
upset about something. Can you tell me what you’re thinking?”
 If your child stops talking or gets upset, continue comforting him or her.
IF YOUR CHILD DOES DISCLOSE THAT SOMETHING HAPPENED:
 “I’m really glad you told me about this. You did the right thing by telling me. I know you are upset but you know
I am here for you. are here for you.”
AFTER THE CONVERSATION:
 Write down notes about the conversation while it is fresh in your mind.
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HOW TO SUPPORT A LOVED ONE WHO HAS EXPERIENCED ABUSE OR EXPLOITATION
It can be hard to know what to do to help a friend, family member, or student who is a survivor of
abuse or exploitation. Victims of abuse and/or exploitation may experience a range of emotional
responses after an incident. Please read below for some helpful hints for parents/guardians or
partners/friends of those who have experienced abuse and/or exploitation. Here’s how you can
help:
WHAT TO SAY TO A SURVIVOR:
I’m sorry this happened to you
It wasn’t your fault
Thank you for telling me
I’m always here if you want to talk
Can I do anything for you?
WHAT PARENTS/GUARDIANS CAN DO:
The process of recovering from abuse and/or exploitation takes time. As a parent/guardian, your help during this process is essential.
Survivors need a great deal of support and caring as they begin to address and survive a very frightening and sometimes violent
experience.
Parents/guardians can help by:
 Listen and be available
 Believe and do not judge
 Recognize that recovery takes a long time
 Respect the decisions that the survivor makes
 Be gentle, sensitive, and respectful of the survivor’s wishes for closeness and affection
 Find your own support
WHAT NEVER TO SAY TO A SURVIVOR:
 It was your fault.
 You could have avoided it had you
 It’s been so long! Get over it!
 You wanted it / You were asking for it.
 It’s not that big of deal; it happens to lots of people.
 I don’t believe you.
WHAT FRIENDS AND PARTNERS CAN DO:
Friends and partners play a key role in both preventing abuse and exploitation from occurring as well as lending support to a survivor.
They are often the first people in whom a survivor might confide. Here are a few things to keep in mind to support your friend.
 Believe your friend / partner. People rarely lie about sexual assault, intimate partner violence, stalking, or harassment.
 Listen to your friend/partner and concentrate on understanding their feelings.
 Ask how you can help… and do it.
 Offer to accompany your friend/partner in seeking medical attention, counseling, or reporting to law enforcement.
 Help the friend/partner regain a sense of control by supporting her or him in making decisions about whom to tell and how to
proceed.
 Remind your friend/ partner that sexual violence is NOT their fault!
 Offer shelter or companionship so that she/he doesn’t have to be alone.
 Be available and supportive
There’s no “right way” to heal from trauma. Be there to listen, to care, and to help!
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CODE OF CONDUCT FOR YMCA STAFF AND VOLUNTEERS
Staff and volunteers will always consider safety of campers and safety of themselves as a priority in all situations.
Staff and volunteers will respond to children with respect and consideration and treat all children and co-workers equally
regardless of sex, race, religion, culture, economic level of the family, or disability.
Staff and volunteers will act in a caring, honest, respectful, and responsible manner consistent with the mission of the YMCA.
Staff and volunteers will exhibit the highest ethical best practices and personal integrity.
Staff and volunteers will provide a professional work environment that is free from physical, psychological, written, or verbal
intimidation or harassment.
Staff and volunteers will not physically, sexually, or emotionally abuse or neglect a Children or adult.
Staff and volunteers will share concerns about suspicious or inappropriate behavior with their supervisor or administra-
tor.
Staff and volunteers will report any suspected abuse or neglect of a Children to the state authorities.
Staff and volunteers will accept their personal responsibility to protect Children and adults from all forms of abuse.
WORKING WITH CHILDREN
SUPERVISION OF CAMPERS (M16)
 To protect YMCA staff, volunteers, and program members, at no time during a YMCA program may a staff person be alone
with a single child where he or she cannot be observed by others. As staff supervise children, they should space themselves
in such a way that other staff can see them.
 Staff shall never leave a child unsupervised. At least one staff member must be in each cabin after Cabin Chat
 Rest-room supervision: Staff will make sure the rest room is not occupied by suspicious or unknown individuals before
allowing children to use the facilities. Staff will stand in the doorway of the rest room while children are using the rest
room. This policy allows privacy for the children and protection for the staff (not being alone with a child). If staff are
assisting younger children, doors to the facility must remain open. No child, regardless of age, should ever enter a bath-
room alone on a field trip or at other off-site location. Always send children in threes (known as the rule of three) and,
whenever possible, with staff.
 Staff should conduct or supervise private activities in pairs— changing, putting on bathing suits, taking showers, and so
on. When this is not feasible, staff should be positioned so that they are visible to others.
 Under no circumstances should staff release children to anyone other than the authorized parent, guardian, or other
adult authorized by the parent or guardian (written parent authorization on file with the YMCA).
 Employees, volunteers, and children should not sit or lie on anyone’s bed or be in anyone else’s sleeping bag
 Employees and volunteers will not leave children alone during siesta/bedtime
BEHAVIOR MANAGEMENT
 Staff must use positive techniques of guidance, including redirection, positive reinforcement, and encouragement rather
than competition, comparison, and criticism. Staff will have age- appropriate expectations and set up guidelines and envi-
ronments that minimize the need for discipline. Physical restraint is used only in predetermined situations (when neces-
sary to protect the child or other children from harm), administered only in a prescribed manner, and must be document-
ed in writing.
 Camp Hazen YMCA will not tolerate the mistreatment or abuse of one child by another child. In addition, our organization
will not tolerate any behavior that is classified under the definition of bullying, and to the extent that such actions are dis-
ruptive, we will take steps needed to eliminate such behavior. Anyone who sees an act of bullying, and who then encour-
ages it, is engaging in bullying. This policy applies to all children, employees, and volunteers.
 Bullying is aggressive behavior that is intentional, is repeated over time, and involves an imbalance of power or strength.
Bullying can take on various forms, including:
 Physical bullying: when one person engages in physical force against another person, such as by hitting, punching, push-
ing, kicking, pinching, or restraining another.
 Verbal bullying: when someone uses their words to hurt another, such as by belittling or calling another hurtful names.
 Nonverbal or relational bullying: when one person manipulates a relationship or desired relationship to harm another
person. This includes social exclusion, friendship manipulation, or gossip. This type of bullying also includes intimidating
another person by using gestures.
 Cyberbullying: the intentional and overt act of aggression toward another person by way of any technological tool, such
as email, instant messages, text messages, digital pictures or images, or website postings (including blogs). Cyberbullying
can involve:
 Sending mean, vulgar, or threatening messages or images;
 Posting sensitive, private information about another person;
 Pretending to be someone else in order to make that person look bad;
 Intentionally excluding someone from an online group.
 Hazing: an activity expected of someone joining or participating in a group that humiliates, degrades, abuses, or en-
dangers that person regardless of that person’s willingness to participate.
 Sexualized bullying: when bullying involves behaviors that are sexual in nature. Examples of sexualized bullying behav-
iors include sexting, bullying that involves exposures of private body parts, and verbal bullying involving sexualized
language or innuendos.
22
CHILD ABUSE
 staff shall not abuse children in any way, including
 physical abuse—striking, spanking, shaking, slapping; hazing and so on;
 verbal abuse—humiliating, degrading, threatening; and so on;
 sexual abuse—touching or speaking inappropriately or showing inappropriate materials;
 mental abuse—shaming, withholding kindness, being cruel, and so on; or
 Neglect—withholding food, water, or basic care.
 No type of abuse will be tolerated and may be cause for immediate dismissal or arrest.
 Staff will respect children’s rights to not be touched or looked at in ways that make them feel uncomfortable, and their
right to say no. Children are not to be touched on areas of their bodies that would be covered by a bathing suit.
 Children are never to be touched against their will (unless in the case of clear and present danger) or against their discom-
fort expressed verbally or non-verbally.
 Staff must read Staff Manual and follow all precautions outlined in section on Child Abuse. Any allegation must be reported to
a supervisor, director, or other authority.
INTERACTIONS WITH CAMPERS
 Staff and volunteers will adhere to uniform best practices of displaying affection as outlined by Camp Hazen YMCA.
 Staff and volunteers will adhere to uniform best practices of appropriate and inappropriate verbal interactions as outlined
by our organization.
 Staff and volunteers will not stare at or comment on children’ bodies.
 Staff and volunteers will not date or become romantically involved with children.
 Staff and volunteers will not have secrets with children and will only give gifts in accordance with organizational policies.
 Staff and volunteers will comply with our organization’s policies regarding interactions with children outside of our programs.
 Staff and volunteers will adhere to organizational policies regarding electronic communication and social media with children.
 At no time, and not for any reason, is there to be physical punishment of Campers. Any incidence of physical punishment of
a Camper may result in dismissal. Physical punishment is not the same as physical restraint used to prevent a Camper from
an action that may be harmful to him or herself or others.
 While the YMCA does not discriminate against an individual’s lifestyle, it does require that in the performance of their job
they will abide by professional standard and conduct set forth by the YMCA. Discussion with campers regarding private staff/
adult relationships, sexual education or imposing their own political views is prohibited. Parents will decide how children
learn the ‘facts of life’, they do not expect camp staff to do this. Staff are expected to seek out the Camp Director, Leader-
ship Staff or Camp Nurse if you have a sensitive situation with your camper(s).
 Staff members may be in a situation where they are informed of a camper’s disability or illness, and must respect camper
confidentiality regarding any medical information and refrain from discussing medical situations with anyone other than
Health Staff and necessary Camp Directors.
PROFESSIONAL IMAGE
PERSONAL APPEARANCE & BEHAVIOR
 Staff must appear clean, neat and appropriately attired. When building trust, it is the first impression is the one that counts
and staff need to remember to be positive role models. The Executive Director will have the final say in any attire, tattoos,
body piercing etc that he/she finds to be inappropriate
 Staff must wear performance style bathing suits and clothing that covers the body appropriately. Inappropriate attire
while at camp includes excessively short shorts, revealing bathing suits, see-through clothing and t-shirts with inappropri-
ate language or designs.
 Smoking/vaping and use of tobacco related products are prohibited at Camp.
 There will be no alcoholic beverages anywhere in summer camp buildings or on camp property. Possession of, use of, or
being with persons possessing or using alcohol will mean automatic dismissal from camp. Staff members in camp will be
expected to observe the Connecticut State laws regarding legal age for use of alcohol when they are out of camp on time
off. No staff member will be allowed to come on to YMCA property from time off having had too much to drink. You are
considered on duty anytime you are on camp property. Breaking the alcohol rules will lead to disciplinary action up to and
including dismissal from Camp Hazen YMCA.
 Use of any drugs not prescribed for medical reasons will not be permitted. Possession of, use of, or being with persons
possessing or using marijuana for recreational use or other illicit drugs will lead to disciplinary action up to and including
dismissal from camp.
 All prescribed medication and over the counter medication, other than life saving emergency medication, for staff will be kept
in the Health Lodge, not in cabins. - No weapons of any kind will be brought to camp.
 Staff and volunteers will not have sexually oriented materials, including printed or online pornography, on our organiza-
tion's property.
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PERSONAL INTERACTIONS
 Staff will refrain from intimate displays of affection toward others in the presence of children, parents and staff.
 Profanity, inappropriate jokes, sharing intimate details of one’s personal life, and any kind of harassment in the presence
of children, parents, volunteers, or other staff is prohibited.
 Staff may not be alone with children they meet in YMCA programs outside the YMCA. This includes babysitting, sleepo-
vers, driving or riding in cars, and inviting children to their homes. Any exceptions require a written explanation before
the fact and are subject to prior administrator approval.
 Staff will portray a positive role model for youth by maintaining an attitude of loyalty, patience, courtesy, tact, and maturity.
 Staff should not give excessive gifts (e.g., TV, video games, jewelry) to youth.
 Staff are to understand there is a clear power difference between themselves and campers and are not to take advantage
of this difference. Staff may not have any physically intimate or emotionally inappropriate relationship with program partic-
ipants, including LEA’s.
 Staff are not to transport children in their own vehicles or allow youth participants old enough to drive to transport younger
children in the program.
ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION AND SOCIAL MEDIA CODE OF CONDUCT
While these tools provide many benefits, they also present the potential for inappropriate behavior, increased access to vulner-
able children, and privacy violations. Employees, volunteers, and children participating in Camp Hazen YMCA’s programs,
events, and activities shall adhere to the following Social Media Code of Conduct:
ONLINE PRESENCE:
 You are expected to represent yourself and the YMCA positively and responsibly year-round. Inappropriate photos, com-
ments, stories and questionable interactions that are viewable to campers, parents, alumni and administrators puts Camp’s
reputation at risk and your employment at risk (including future references for other jobs). We expect you to continue pro-
fessional boundaries with campers year-round.
 Be a positive role model by exhibiting professionalism in all interactions; portray an attitude of respect, loyalty, patience,
courtesy, tact, and maturity. Do not engage in behavior or comments that are, or could be construed by any observer to
be, harsh, abusive, coercive, threatening, intimidating, shaming, derogatory, demeaning, or humiliating. Do not engage in
personal attacks, sexually oriented conversations, or discussions about sexual activity.
 Employees and volunteers may not create web pages on behalf of Camp Hazen YMCA unless they have prior approval
to do so and may not misrepresent their work with Camp Hazen YMCA or Camp Hazen YMCA itself.
 Rather than personally defend Camp Hazen YMCA’s reputation, employees and volunteers should notify their supervisor
or an administrator of a negative comment or online representation or if any member of the media contacts them about
any matter related to Camp Hazen YMCA.
ONLINE INTERACTIONS:
 Staff and volunteers are prohibited from communicating with children using personal social networks, including direct mes-
saging through social media or gaming platforms, or sending text messages to children and/or replying to text messages from
a child. If a child attempts to communicate with a staff member or volunteer via these methods, a Senior Leadership must be
notified immediately.
 Personal social networking profiles and/or blogs of employees and volunteers shall be private and not shared with children.
Employees and volunteers with profiles on social networking sites shall not request to be “friends” with or follow children or
approve friend or follow requests from children, unless there is a prior connection outside of the camp.
 Employees and volunteers are prohibited from sending private messages to children and/or replying to private messages
from a child. If a child attempts to privately communicate with an employee or volunteer electronically, the Camp Director or
designee must be notified immediately.
 Employees and volunteers may not engage in electronic communication or social media contact with family members or
friends of children.
SHARING OF CAMPER INFORMATION ONLINE
 Never reveal sensitive or confidential information, including identifiable details or photos of a child without written consent
from their parent or legal guardian.
 Employees and volunteers may not post or share inappropriate photos or comments on photos of children.
 Employees and volunteers may not post or share on their personal social media accounts any photographs or videos of chil-
dren participating in Camp Hazen YMCA’s programs.
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USE OF TECHNOLOGY:
 Refrain from using personal or organization owned devices in restrooms, showerhouse, or other areas where there is a
reasonable expectation of privacy.
 Refrain from using cell phone cameras and/or any recording functions, on the cell phone or within apps, during program-
ming unless permission is granted. If permission is granted, the camera or recording feature is only to be used as di-
rected by the employee or volunteer only for that particular purpose
 Do not make pornography, in any form available to children participating in Camp Hazen YMCA’s programs, events, and ac-
tivities or assist children in any way in gaining access to pornography.
 While on Camp Hazen’s YMCA network and or property staff and volunteers may not:
 Access, send, receive, download, produce, or distribute any offensive, profane, threatening, pornographic, or sexually
explicit material at any time, for any reason.
 Access websites, newsgroups, or chat areas that contain material that is counter to Camp Hazen YMCA’s mission or that
promote illegal acts.
Employees and volunteers must adhere to uniform standards of electronic communication and social media use as outlined in any
applicable organizational policies and procedures.
EMPLOYEE GRIEVANCE POLICY
Camp Hazen YMCA believes employees have valuable thoughts and insights to share regarding the workplace and our oper-
ations. Accordingly, Camp Hazen YMCA encourages employees to share opinions, suggestions, concerns, questions
or grievances about our policies, personnel issues, and/or other workplace matters and Camp Hazen YMCA. In general,
the best person initially to bring opinions, suggestions, concerns, and/or questions to is the employee’s direct supervi-
sor. However, to the extent the concerns relate to their direct supervisor, or to the extent an employee believes their
direct supervisor did not fully address a matter, employees may direct their opinions, suggestions, concerns, and/or
questions to the next level of management or directly to the Camp Director of the Executive Director/CEO. To share a
grievance anonymously, you can do so by adding *67 prior to (860) 526 9529 or by dropping a note in the mail box by
the office.
This Code of Conduct and associated policies and procedures shall be provided to parents/guardians of children. It shall also be
available on Camp Hazen YMCA’s website for public view.
Staff are to report to a supervisor any other staff or volunteer who violates any of the policies listed in this Code of Conduct.
Staff are required to read and sign all policies related to identifying, documenting, and reporting child abuse and attend trainings on
the subject, as instructed by a supervisor.
In signing this document, I agree to the following:
To watch for signs of stress in myself and others as a way of maintaining a safe environment for everyone at Camp Hazen YMCA
To ask for help if I do not understand a policy or feel I am in a situation that is uncomfortable or has the potential to become harm-
ful.
Staff and volunteers will report concerns or complaints about other employees and volunteers, other adults, or Children to the
Camp Director or designee.
Staff and volunteers will report allegations or incidents of abuse to the proper state authority. Please refer to the specific guide-
lines of your state regarding mandated reporting.
Staff and volunteers may not have engaged in or been accused or convicted of Children abuse, indecency with a child, or injury
to a child.
To adhere to this Code of Conduct and understand that any violation of this Code puts campers, staff and myself at risk and
may result in termination.
Please refer to Camp Hazen YMCA’s full Employee Handbook for full details of our policies.
25
CHILD ABUSE REPORTING & RESPONSE PROCEDURES
All employees and volunteers must follow state specific mandatory reporting requirements. Our organization has zero toler-
ance for abuse. It is imperative that every employee or volunteer actively participates in the protection of children.
Employees and volunteers must be trained to be aware of and understand their legal and ethical obligation to recognize and report
suspicions of mistreatment and abuse. Employees and volunteers will:
 be familiar with the symptoms of abuse and neglect, including physical, sexual, verbal, and emotional abuse;
 be familiar with red-flat or inappropriate behaviors and/or policy violations;
 know and follow organization policies and procedures that protect against abuse;
 report suspected abuse or neglect to the appropriate authorities as required by state mandated reporter laws; and
 follow up to ensure that appropriate action has been taken.
In the event that employees or volunteers observe red-flag or inappropriate behaviors and/or policy violations by other
employees or volunteers, it is their professional and personal responsibility to immediately report their observations in
accordance with Camp Hazen YMCA’s reporting procedures.
The following are examples of red-flag or inappropriate behaviors that all employees and volunteers are required to report:
 Any violation of Camp Hazen YMCA’s abuse prevention policies
 Seeking unauthorized private time or one-on-one time with children
 Seeing or visiting with a child outside of scheduled programing
 Buying gifts for individual children
 Sending unauthorized electronic communications through text messaging, social media, online gaming, etc. in violation of Camp Hazen YMCA’s electronic com-
munication policy
 Making suggestive comments to children
 Showing favoritism towards a child or type of child
 Children disclosing that an employee or volunteer makes them feel uncomfortable
If employees or volunteers witness suspicious or inappropriate behaviors or policy violations from another employee or
volunteer, the individual is instructed to do the following:
 Interrupt the behavior.
 Report the behavior to a supervisor, director, or other authority.
 If you are not comfortable making the report directly, make it anonymously
 If the report is about a supervisor or administrator, contact the next levelof management.
 Complete an internal report but do not conduct an investigation.
 Keep reporting until the appropriate action is taken.
In the event that a supervisor or an administrator receives a report of suspicious or inappropriate behaviors or policy viola-
tions from an employee, volunteer, child, or parent/guardian, the supervisor is instructed to do the following:
 Report to the next level supervisor or administrator.
 Speak with the employee or volunteer who has been reported.
 Review the file of the employee or volunteer to determine if similar complaints were reported.
 Determine the appropriate response based on the report.
 Take into consideration factors such as:
 Context of red-flag or inappropriate behavior or policy violation;
 Severity of red-flag or inappropriate behavior or policy violation
 History of red-flag or inappropriate behaviors or policy violations; and
 Trainability of employee or volunteer.
 Document the report on the appropriate form.
 If at any point in gathering information about a report of red-flag or inappropriate behavior, a concern arises about possible abuse, contact the state authorities and file
a report.
 If appropriate, notify parents/guardians.
 Advise the person who reported the behavior that the report is being taken seriously.
Based on the information gathered, the following may be required:
 Increase monitoring or supervision of the employee, volunteer, and/or program.
 If policy violations with child(s) are confirmed, the employee or volunteer must be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination and prosecution.
Disciplinary action will follow the Progressive Disciplinary Process outlined by Camp Hazen YMCA.
 If more information is needed, interview and/or survey other employees and volunteers or children.
In the State of Connecticut Youth Camp Directors are Mandated Reporters. As such are required by mandated reporting
laws and must report any suspected abuse or neglect of a child—whether on or off organization property or whether
perpetrated by employees, volunteers, or others—to state authorities. Reports may be made confidentially or anony-
mously. A person who mistakenly reports suspected abuse is immune from civil or criminal liability as long as the re-
port was made in good faith and without malice.
To report to state authorities, employees and volunteers are required to report any suspected or known abuse of child per-
petrated by employees or volunteers directly to leadership so that immediate and proper steps may be taken to ensure
26
the safety of alleged victims and others who may be at risk. Reports of suspected or known abuse may be made confi-
dentially to the following:
 Immediate supervisor
 Directors
 Administrators
Additional guidelines for employee and volunteer response to incidents or allegations of abuse:
 If you witness abuse, safely interrupt the behavior immediately.
 If abuse is disclosed to you, assure the individual disclosing that he or she was correct to tell you.
 Protect the alleged victim from intimidation, retribution, or further abuse to the extent possible.
 Immediately report the allegation or incident to the proper organization authorities (based on mandatory reporting requirements) and the designated
authority.
 Be sure to document the incident, disclosure, or any circumstances causingyour suspicion of abuse according to incident reporting and documentation require-
ments. State only the facts.
 It is not your job to investigate the incident, but it is your job to report the incident to your supervisor in a timely manner.
 Check back to make sure appropriate steps were taken. If not, report againto your supervisor or the designated organization authority.
In the event of an accusation of child abuse, the Camp Hazen YMCA will take prompt and immediate action as follows:
1. At the first report or allegation that child abuse has occurred, the staff person it has been reported to will notify a Village Director and
the Camp Director, who will review the incident with Executive Director.
2. The Camp Director or Executive Director will see to the immediate safety and medical care of all persons at issue.
3. The Camp Director or Executive Director will gather information about the allegation. For example, who made the report, who was allegedly
abused, who was the alleged abuser, what was the nature of the alleged abuse, where and when did the alleged abuse occur, etc. It is not our
job to investigate the incident, but to collect the facts that can be reported.
4. Camp Hazen YMCA will make a report in accordance with relevant state or local child abuse reporting requirements and will cooperate to the
extent of the law with any legal authority involved.
5. If the Executive Director is not immediately available, this review by the supervisor, cannot in any way deter the reporting of child
abuse by mandated reporters.
6. Youth Camp Directors or Assistant Youth Camp Directors are mandated by law to report reasonable suspicion of abuse.
7. It is not our job, to prove that a child has been abused, only to report reasonable suspicion.
8. Failure to report by a mandated reporter makes that person subject to arrest and prosecution.
9. CT State Law states "All persons, institutions, or agencies reporting in good faith is immune from any liability, civil or criminal.”
10. An oral report must be made to immediately (within 12 hours) to the Commissioner of DCF or his representative or the local police or state
police.
11. A written report must follow within 48 hours to both DCF and the State Health Department.
12. The Department of Children and Families Hotline telephone number is 1-800-842-2288.
13. In the event the reported incident involves a volunteer or staff member, the Executive Director will immediately, without exception, suspend
the volunteer or staff person from duties until an investigation is complete.
14. The Camp Director or Executive Director will see to it that any camper who is accused of child abuse is removed from the presence of the other
campers to an isolated location and supervised by at least two staff at all times.
15. The parents or legal guardian of the child or children involved in the alleged incident will be promptly notified in accordance with the direc-
tions of the relevant state or local agency. If more than one set of parents is involved (e.g., child-on-child abuse), the YMCA’s responsibil-
ity is to keep the names and contact information of those involved confidential.
16. The Executive Director will be the spokesperson for the camp and will follow the Camp Hazen YMCA crisis management procedure.
17. Whether the incident or alleged offense takes place on or off YMCA premises, it will be considered job related (because of the youth- involved
nature of the YMCA).
18. Reinstatement of the program volunteer, employed staff person, or YMCA member will occur only after all allegations have been cleared to
the satisfaction of the Executive Director.
19. All YMCA staff and volunteers must be sensitive to the need for confidentiality in the handling of this information and therefore should dis-
cuss the incident only with the executive director or his or her designate.
Camp Hazen YMCA takes every allegation of abuse or misconduct seriously and will fully cooperate with the authorities to
investigate all cases of alleged abuse or misconduct. (P12) Em ployees and volunteers shall cooperate with any external investigation
by outside authorities or internal investigation conducted by Camp Hazen YMCA or persons given investigative authority by
Camp Hazen YMCA.
Cooperation with investigations includes, but is not limited to:
 Promptly acknowledging and responding to requests for information;
 Making oneself available for meetings with investigating officials;
 Providing full, accurate, and truthful information;
 Keeping confidential information learned or transmitted during the investigation, unless directed by legal authorities, and
 Preserving relevant information and documents.
An employee or volunteer’s failure to cooperate with an investigation will result in disciplinary action up to and including termina-
tion of employment or dismissal from Camp Hazen YMCA.
All full-time and part-time employees and program volunteers must read and sign this policy.
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