FAQs - Volunteering as a Nurse

Who are the campers at The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp?

The Camp accepts children ages 7-15 years of age, who have been diagnosed with cancer, hemophilia, sickle cell anemia, as well as other genetic blood diseases, and HIV/AIDS. Many children are still receiving active treatment while at Camp, while others may be in remission.

What do volunteer nurses do at Camp?

Volunteer nurses are essential to our Camp program. Each session, there are 5 or 6 volunteer nurses on Camp. The volunteer nurses work side-by-side with our five staff nurses to provide primary care to a group of campers. Volunteer nurses also spend a portion of the session triaging and treating the unexpected illnesses and injuries that come up during a session. Volunteers bring their nursing skills, spirit, fresh ideas, and energy to our program.

Who are the volunteer nurses at The Hole in the Wall?

We have nurses of all ages, from just down the road and across the country. Many of them are pediatric and/or Heme-Onc specialists, but that is not mandatory. 

Do nurses get to spend much time with the campers?

As a volunteer nurse, you will be assigned to a group of campers and will get to know them fairly well. About 50% of your time at Camp will be scheduled as infirmary time. At all other times you are encouraged to be out and about with your campers. 

What is the time commitment for a volunteer nurse? Are partial sessions available?

An 8-day commitment is required of all volunteer nurses. For continuity of care, partial sessions are not available. 

Can I bring my spouse and children?

No. Unfortunately, our program does not provide for this opportunity. 

Do I need to have a CT nursing license to volunteer?

Yes. Licensure in the state of CT is required. You can find information about this process by calling the State Board at 860.509.7570 or visiting their web site at www.dph.state.ct.us/. (The cost of obtaining your CT license can be reimbursed.)

Are there other certifications that are required?

All nurses must have current CPR certification (American Heart or Red Cross for the professional rescuer). In addition, all volunteers must submit a basic health history and physical exam and provide proof of professional liability coverage. 

What are the living arrangements for volunteer nurses?

Volunteer nurses do not live with the campers. Separate housing is provided for nursing volunteers. You can expect to share a room with two or three other volunteer nurses. All housing options are air-conditioned and have indoor bathrooms and showers. Meals are provided in our dining hall and are taken with the campers and other staff. A vegetarian option is always made available. 

Is there any training for nursing volunteers?

Every volunteer nurse, new and returning, is expected to arrive at Camp the day before his/her session starts for Orientation. Camp provides this opportunity for volunteers to learn our policies on medical care, and behavior modification techniques…as well as the fun stuff like songs and cheers.

Can I get transportation from an airport or bus/train station?

Transportation from Bradley International Airport or the Hartford bus/train station is available the day before each session (orientation day) and closing day only and is arranged through our main Camp office.

Will I have access to a phone?

There are pay phones available for both staff and volunteers. Please remember that personal time at Camp is very limited. If someone needs to reach you at Camp, they can call the main number, 860.429.3444 and ask for the infirmary. Messages will be posted in a designated area.

Volunteers and staff are expected to be available to the program at all times while on Camp. Therefore, we ask that you do not carry a cell phone with you while you are on Camp. If you need to take time to make or receive personal calls, arrangements can be made with the infirmary staff. 

Are there any restrictions I should be aware of?

Smoking is not permitted anywhere on Camp grounds. Drinking and drug use are also strictly prohibited. Except for scheduled time off, all nurses (volunteer and staff) are expected to be "on duty" 24 hours a day. We must be able to count on you to help us as the need arises, so we ask that you not leave Camp except during your scheduled time off. Everyone at Camp, adults and campers alike, are required to deposit all medications with the Camp infirmary. Medications will be dispensed by the infirmary staff only.

Whom may I contact if I have any further questions?

Sharon Space, M.D.
Medical Director
The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp
565 Ashford Center Road
Ashford, CT 06278
Phone: 860.429.3444 
E-Mail: sls@holeinthewallgang.org