Bullying Policy

At YMCA Camp St. Croix, bullying is inexcusable, and we have a firm policy against all types of bullying. Each camper is expected to treat all other campers with respect, and to help each other achieve the best possible experience. If a camper has difficulty meeting this expectation, parents may be called upon to assist

Our leadership addresses all incidents of bullying seriously and trains staff to promote communication with their staff and their campers. . We work together as a team to ensure that campers gain self-confidence, make new friends, and go home with their camp experience.

Behavior Guidelines

Please read our behavior policy with your camper before camp.

We expect campers to act respectfully at all times when they are on our property or participating in our programs. Campers are to behave in a mature, responsible way and respect the rights and dignity of others.

Actions will reflect the YMCA Four Core Values:

  • Campers take Responsibility for their actions.
  • Campers Respect themselves, each other, camp equipment and the environment.
  • Honesty will be the basis for all relationships and interactions.
  • Campers will be Caring in their relationships with others.

Campers should talk to a counselor or any camp staff member if they are uncomfortable with any experiences or need assistance while at camp.

Discipline Procedures

When a camper does not follow the behavior guidelines, we will take the following action steps as behavior problems progress.

  1. Staff will redirect the camper to more appropriate behavior.
  2. If inappropriate behavior continues, the camper will be reminded of behavior guidelines and camp rules, and the camper will be asked to decide on action steps to correct his/her behavior.
  3. If a child’s behavior still does not meet expectations and is affecting the experience of other campers, he/she will be referred to one of the Youth Advocates.
  4. If inappropriate behavior continues, as a final action step the camper may be dismissed from camp.
  5. The Youth Advocates may also be called upon to work with entire cabin groups who need additional support and behavior guidance.

Examples of unacceptable behavior:

  • Refusing to follow behavior guidelines or camp rules
  • Using profanity, vulgarity or obscenity
  • Stealing or damaging property (personal or camp property)
  • Refusal to participate in activities or cooperate with staff
  • Disrupting a program
  • Leaving a program without permission
  • Endangering the health and safety of children and/or staff
  • Use of illicit drugs, alcohol or tobacco or sexual conduct of any kind
  • Teasing, making fun or bullying of other campers or staff
  • Fighting of any kind

Camper fees are non-refundable if a camper is sent home for disciplinary reasons. Physical violence or bullying toward another camper or staff member will result in immediate dismissal from the camp program.