Camp New Hope seeks summer help, paid and volunteer

(MATTOON) — Camp New Hope in Mattoon, a summer camp for special needs individuals, is seeking individuals to work at the camp in June and July. These are paid and volunteer positions.

The camp is located on the shore of Lake Mattoon and was established in 1974, said Eric Jostes, co-chairman of the Christian County Kids to CNH Benefit Committee. It is an outstanding

facility that offers recreational programs for special needs individuals of all ages with various disabilities. Their “Summer Camp” program offers week- long day and overnight camping experiences during the months of June and July each year, that are filled with arts and crafts, music and recreational activities, all adapted to the individual campers needs.

Evenings conclude with group activities such as games, sing-alongs, and stories, and camp weeks conclude with an awards ceremony for campers, parents, and families.

Respite weekend programs are offered all months of the year except June and July during summer camp.

Camp New Hope is finding it increasingly difficult to find staffing for their programs. We are asking for your help in filling these needs by possibly giving of your time or by helping to find others who may be able to fill some of these paid or volunteer positions.

CNH has current plans for 3 weeks of overnight camp and 4 weeks of day camp between June 5 and the end of July of this year.

“They are looking for anyone at least 16 years old who could help with any position, even if it is just a day or two here and there,” Jostes said. Positions are in arts and crafts, boat drivers, cooks, counselors, floaters, kitchen help, lifeguards, music, nurses, subs, or unit leaders. This would be an excellent opportunity for civic organizations or senior high youth groups looking for summer mission work, especially if they can carpool.”

For more information on submitting an application for employment at Camp New Hope, at programdirector@ campnewhopeillinois.org or call 217-895-2341 or Jostes at 217-414-8298 for more information.