BY SHELBY JONES
PALS Program Coordinator
As an organization that highlights volunteer-led programs, our volunteer leaders are the backbone of our organization. They are the creatives, the supporters, the advocates, and the builders that help actualize our mission in the most tangible and meaningful ways.
We are so excited to launch our Leadership Applications on Monday, December 13th.
PALS offers a variety of leadership roles that each cater to different interests, skill sets, and time commitments. Click here to watch a video to learn more about each role.
Leadership Spotlight: Program Leads
Program Leads create the landscape for an experience that puts our mission into action!
Creative individuals will thrive in this role working to: design a fun, inclusive program schedule and set the space for PALS magic to happen. Program Leads design off-campus trips, on-campus activities, meals, and downtime all of which invite opportunities for meaningful connection and the space for friendships to be built.
Program Leads are not only the creatives behind the schedules, but they are also the builders. They work with university liaisons to secure spaces for on-campus activities; they build relationships with local businesses to book incredible off-campus trips; they work within a provided budget; and they collaborate with every leader attending the program to make it all come to life.
Who would thrive in this role?
“I feel like I’ve gained so much confidence in what I am able to do and what I have the potential to do.”
People that are excited about putting together a schedule, from start to finish, would thrive in this role. From the creative stages of thinking about fun programming, to partnering with local businesses that can make the programming happen, to executing the schedule, this role is for those that have a knack for bringing a vision to life. PALS is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community. We recognize that this takes consistent work and are committed to continual improvement. We believe that diverse ideas, cultures, and traditions reflect the broad diversity of the U.S. and are essential to building our vision of a community of belonging. All individuals from historically marginalized communities including BIPOC (Black people, Indigenous peoples, and People of Color) individuals and folks who identify as LGBTQIA+ are encouraged to join us. This role requires previous PALS experience or other previous camp experience.
What is the application process?
Program Lead applicants will submit a Staff application, via CampDoc, during the application window (Monday, December 13th - Friday, December 31st). Applicants will enroll in a week-long Discovery Period, from January 3 - January 7, that will include virtual presentations, discussions, and reflections. The Discovery Period is an opportunity for applicants to learn more about the role, PALS as an organization, and allow PALS Staff to learn more about the applicants. Following the Discovery Period, applicants will have a 30 minute interview with PALS staff. PALS Staff will use all of the learnings and information gathered during the application process to make the Program Lead selections.
“I’ve been able to experience so many new things and do so many new things with this air of confidence that I don’t think I’ve ever had before.”
What is the time commitment?
Program Leads arrive at the program site on the Friday morning before arrival and are required to be on-site for the entirety of the week through the following Saturday afternoon. Additionally, this role requires a time commitment of 10-15 hours a week from February through the start of camp.
What is the training Program Leads will receive?
Program Leads will receive on-site staff training, in accordance with the American Camp Association, during the preceding Friday & Saturday of the program. Program Leads are required to attend two Leadership Summits, one in-person and one virtual. Additionally, will receive training and support from PALS Staff in the months leading up to the program.
How do I apply?
Prepare an updated resume & 2 professional reference contacts
Submit an application (here) via CampDoc (use this walkthrough video to help!). Applications will be open from Monday, December 13th - Friday, December 31st for the Program Lead role.
Attend the Discovery Period
Have an interview with PALS Staff
If you know someone that would be interested in the Program Lead role or you would like to recommend someone for this role, share this blog post with them! As always, contact support@palsprogams.org if you have any questions.
We can’t wait to see your application come through on Monday, December 13th!