SWiMs | Camp Fowler

What is a SWiM?

All NEW Student Working in Ministry PROGRAM.

Each summer, Camp Fowler invites about twenty high school students to participate in its "Students Working in Ministry" Program (SWiM). SWiMs have a unique two week opportunity that includes one week of leadership training and one week of direct student ministry work. This unique tri-fold experience allows the SWim to be "camper", "trainee" and "student/junior staff". A SWim experiences the ministry of Camp Fowler in a more interactive, dynamic and intensive way than as a registered camper. With provided leadership Training during the LEAD camper week a SWim is encouraged to learn and model christian leadership skills which are then practiced with younger campers during the second half of the SWim program. SWiMs participate in all aspects of camp during the the second week phase of the program and are given more responsibility as a young adult.

A Student Working in Ministry has a unique perspective. They are neither camper nor staff nor cabin counselor, but a bridge to all three. A SWiM can experience camp through kitchen or maintenance work, or through any one of the program areas at Camp Fowler (recreation, waterfront, arts, or nature). SWiMs volunteer to have the opportunity of working with 3^rd through 9^th graders.

The Students Working in Ministry program advocates living simply, working in a faith community, and learning leadership skills for the future. SWiMs receive 40 hours of community service, and engage in a variety of tasks necessary for the functioning of a summer camp. SWiMs stay in a cabin and help to shepherd and encourage both the campers in that specific cabin as well as the entire group of campers at Fowler during both weeks. SWiMs have the opportunity to help lead camp programs and sessions when working side by side with the summer staff.

All of our SWiMs are trained as campers in our leadership week entitled: L.E.A.D., and are supervised by a staff SWiM Coordinator the week they are working at camp. SWiMs also work with the volunteer cabin counselor that is assigned to the same cabin. SWiMs meet as a group on a daily basis to go over questions and concerns, and are evaluated after their week to help identify strengths and areas of growth.

"Camp Fowler encourages people to live their life for and with Jesus daily. I want to continue to learn how to do so. I want to learn how to influence and encourage people in their spiritual growth. Camp Fowler was invaluable to my spiritual development and I would be honored to help someone on their path."

-Betty Anderson

"I hope to learn new games and learn about what happens at Camp Fowler behind the scenes. An naturally, since it is Camp Fowler, to have a fun time filled with unforgettable experiences."

-Arielle Weinstein

Apply

to be a SWiM
You must be registered as a camper in LEAD Week in order to apply. Registrations open December 15