Give Camp to Youth in Foster Care in Central Texas

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Texas Network of Youth Services (TNOYS) is a statewide organization that serves vulnerable children and young adults throughout Texas. TNOYS’ PEAKS Camp for youth in foster care is coming up March 10 - 16 in Woodcreek (one hour south of Austin), and we are seeking volunteers to lead activities at the camp for youth who will join us alongside their adult sponsors. Sign up here: https://www.tfaforms.com/5064147

Volunteers assist with traditional camp activities such as arts and crafts, sports, etc. They will also lead group discussions, monitor meals, participate in event/activity prep, and generally work alongside TNOYS staff, Peer Leaders, and adult sponsors from the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS). Volunteers will support two separate camp cohorts, each with 50 youth and 25 adult sponsors from DFPS. Lodging and meals are provided on-site for volunteers. Below are a few options to get involved:

• Volunteer from March 10 - 13 to support our first camp cohort.
• Volunteer from March 13 - 16 to support our second camp cohort.
• Volunteer from March 10 - 16. Support both cohorts to be a true PEAKS champion!

Interested, but not able to volunteer for a full cohort? Please reach out to peaks@tnoys.org and we’ll find an option that works for your schedule.

PEAKS, founded in 1984, serves children and youth who are preparing to transition out of foster care and into adulthood. For decades, PEAKS Camp has been the only chance for many Texas foster kids to enjoy a camp experience and the great outdoors. Given that nearly 50% of former foster kids fall into homelessness as adults, PEAKS is a true lifeline for children. Kids leave camp with lasting memories, a support system, and newfound life skills that will set them up to succeed. The unique, proven curriculum empowers campers through traditional camp activities and specialized skill-building in leadership, communication, self-esteem, and more so they are ready to age out of care successfully and thrive as adults.

Volunteers must be at least 21 years of age, pass a background check (Criminal and Child Abuse/Neglect), participate in a virtual webinar training on February 20, and be available to volunteer on-site at camp during the dates they have specified. Volunteers ideally have the following personal qualities, which are critical for facilitating a strong PEAKS camp program: playful and enthusiastic, committed to and respectful of youth, responsible and professional, perceptive, supportive and encouraging, and possessing a positive attitude.