Benton Day Camp

Being a Program Aide is an amazing camp experience where older Girl Scouts have an excellent opportunity to gain and apply leadership skills, plus build relationships with other PAs and younger campers in an outdoor setting.

We offer 3 different PA programs based on age, eligibility and readiness.  Girls must serve as a PAIT or equivalent before applying for a PA1 position.  Girls must serve as a PA1 or equivalent before applying for a PA2 position. Girls who have completed Grade 10 and have been a PA2 may apply to be a PA3.  All 3 PA programs require submission of an application and behavior contract.  PA1s and PAs new to Benton Day Camp must submit a Reference Form or letter of recommendation. All Program Aides must attend their PA1, PA2 or PA3 training before Day Camp begins. Note:  PAs are not required to move to the next PA level--e.g., PA1s do not need to move to PA2, and PA2s need not be a PA3 the next year.

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Girls in the PA1 program will assist unit and program staff and receive outdoor skills and leadership training. PA2 participants will be responsible for developing, teaching and leading outdoor skills and other activities in their units.  Those in the PA3 program will manage a unit of campers, under adequate adult supervision.

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Placement depends on a girl's level of training, camping skills, knowledge, leadership skills, self confidence, self control, courage, attitude, willingness to help, and how she interact with campers, fellow PAs, and leaders. It is very important that each girl is placed in a level where we feel she will be challenged, but still shine as bright as she possibly can.

 

5 Characteristics of a PA

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In order to be a Program Aide Level 1 (PA1), the applicant must demonstrate the following 5 characteristics in the 2023-2024 School Year:

• Positive Attitude

• TEAM Player (Together Everyone Achieves More)

• Manages emotions appropriately

• Respect Authority

• Appropriate Language

 

A detailed explanation of these 5 characteristics are found here:  Characteristics of a PA

NOTE:  These characteristics are expected of all PA levels, staff and volunteers.

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All campers, PAITs and PAs must sign a Behavior Agreement (found within Registration or downloadable here).