Title

Motivations for Camp Staff to Work at Camp

Author(s) Information

Jessica M. Cresci, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis ObispoFollow

College - Author 1

College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences

Department - Author 1

Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Administration Department

Degree Name - Author 1

BS in Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Administration

Date

3-2010

Primary Advisor

Jeff Jacobs

Abstract/Summary

Camp staff are the heart of summer camps and can affect how the summer runs. The purpose of this study was to identify the motivations for staff to work at residential summer camps with special regard to any differences in motivations between staff who attended camp as a camper and staff who never attended camp as well as between international and national staff. This study used cluster sampling measuring 21 possible motivations. A link to an online survey was sent to eight camps as identified on the American Camp Association website. The top six motivations for staff to work at camp are helping others and giving back, having fun, interesting work, respect and like the camp director and other staff, the opportunity for personal growth, and the opportunity to work with youth. There are statistically significant differences for four of the 21 motivations among staff who attended camp as a camper versus staff who never attended camp. There are also statistically significant differences for four of the 21 motivations among international and national staff. Camp directors and administrators can use these conclusions to better market jobs to potential camp staff.

URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/rptasp/8