NEWBERRY — The Newberry Soil and Water Conservation District is looking for a few good volunteers this summer to assist with the annual Camp Conservation. The week long camp will be July 17-21, from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m.
The camp is currently full, with 60 youths, but volunteers are still needed. Danielle Himsey, district coordinator with NSWCD, says she would like 15 volunteers each day. However, volunteers can work in shifts, as long as there are 15 volunteers at a time.
“They will have to pass a background check, I would prefer experience with children, personal or professional. They will have to attend a pre-meeting with me on Monday, July 10 at 11 a.m. at the USDA building (719 Kendall Road, Newberry),” Himsey said. “They will need to be in touch with me before that meeting to tell me they want to volunteer.”
The meeting will go over what volunteers are going to do, and what is expected from them.
The camp will take place at Wilson Farm in Silverstreet, and volunteers will need to be there 30 minutes before the camp starts and 30 minutes after, so 8:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. Himsey said their meals are going to be free everyday, but they will need to provide their own transportation.
“When volunteers arrive they will help check kids in or watch kids while others are checked in, kinda entertaining them for that first half hour. Then at 9 a.m. we will split into groups, some volunteers will be group leaders, some will set up and transitioning and break down,” she said.
In the past, Himsey has had teachers and other school professionals volunteer, as well as those interested in natural resources or conservation.
“I have had parents offer to volunteer because their kids are there,” she said. “Any college students who want to volunteer, this could count as service hours, I will sign off on that. If they do well I am more than happy to be a reference for them. This will also help them gain experience if they are interested in conservation or natural resources.”
Himsey’s only stipulation is that volunteers must be at least 18 years old. She also said that the background checks will thoroughly vet volunteer candidates for the safety of the youths.
If you are interested in volunteering you can contact Himsey by either calling or texting her. The number to talk to her by phone is 803-597-3160, the number to speak to her via text is 803-940-6001. Once you have expressed an interest in volunteering, she will send you an application with a self addressed stamped envelope. The application will also allow you to specify how you would like to volunteer.