WHAT KIND OF PERSON IS LANDMARK LOOKING FOR?
Landmark wants volunteers who are eager to work hard, will do well in a group situation, and will take direction well. Volunteers must be positive thinkers, willing to apply themselves to the fullest of their ability. Landmark promises the host site a team of volunteers who will complete a particular work task.
IS THE TEAM WELL SUPERVISED?
Yes. There is an adult Team Leader who is responsible for leadership and supervision at all times throughout the program. There is also a member of the local community representing Landmark Volunteers as its Community Coordinator, serving as a community resource to the program and its leader. Most Team Leaders are teachers, many with graduate degrees, who have site-specific skills such as wilderness training, experience in science, arts or social service programs and coaching or residential experience.
WHAT IS THE BOY / GIRL RATIO?
A typical team has 7 girls and 6 boys because programs like Landmark Volunteers have more female applicants. We do occasionally have single gender teams.
MY CHILD IS A RETURNING VOLUNTEER - MUST HE/SHE REAPPLY?
Yes, but the application process is simpler. Returning volunteers simply answer two essay questions and waive the teacher recommendation/evaluation. The Team Leader's letter from the previous year is used as a reference.
MY CHILD IS A VEGETARIAN - WILL THERE BE ENOUGH FOOD FOR HIM/HER?
At the sites where the volunteers do their own cooking, each member has a say in what he/she would like to eat and is encouraged to bring favorite recipes. If the site provides meals, there is usually enough choice to satisfy a vegetarian. Many of our volunteers are vegetarians.
WHAT ARRANGEMENTS HAVE BEEN MADE FOR VOLUNTEERS WITH RELIGIOUS DIETARY RESTRICTIONS?
We certainly understand the need to have food available for those of all faiths, and whenever possible we try to honor the dietary requirements of our participants. However, food preparation varies from site to site and may include campfire cooking, cafeteria food or meals cooked by the volunteers. The kitchen areas where meals are prepared are quite limited in space so it would be difficult to bring large electrical appliances to the site. If all of your meals must be prepared in order to satisfy kosher, hillal, or other religious dietary requirements, we suggest that you bring your own non-perishable food and one pot only. We will be happy to assist you in finding a site that will best meet your specific needs.
DOES MY CHILD NEED ANOTHER PHYSICAL IF HIS/HER LAST ONE WAS DATED LESS THAN 1 YEAR AGO AND IS IN EXCELLENT HEALTH?
Landmark Volunteers only requires a physical exam within one year of program start date. You must complete the Medical Form, and return it to the Landmark office. Updates and changes can be forwarded to Landmark at a later date.
WHY DO I HAVE TO PAY TO BE A VOLUNTEER?
There is a cost in developing, providing and supervising a program specifically for high school volunteers. Landmark asks that each volunteer share in the cost. Volunteer payments cover only eighty percent of the cost of arranging and presenting these opportunities and of providing responsible leadership and supervision. The balance has been provided through the generosity of former volunteers, foundations, and other benefactors. A small amount of scholarship aid is available to those with demonstrated needs.
WHAT KIND OF PAYMENT DO YOU ACCEPT?
We accept major credit cards for those volunteers who created an on-line account. Otherwise you may mail a personal check to Landmark Volunteers, PO Box 455, Sheffield, MA 001257.
IS THERE FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE?
Landmark does offer a limited amount of scholarship aid to those with demonstrated needs. Please apply as instructed and include a letter from a leader within your place of worship or from a school administrator verifying that your family situation would make you eligible for financial assistance. Students who receive Landmark scholarship money are to use the least expensive mode of transportation to and from the program.
CAN I MAKE A DONATION TO LANDMARK?
Yes! Giving to Landmark is easy. As a 501c3 corporation, your contribution is deductible as allowed by law. You may make a donation on line or if you prefer please send a check made out to Landmark Volunteers, PO Box 455, Sheffield, MA 01257. Don't forget to ask your employer if they offer a gift-matching program.
WHAT ARE MATCHING GIFTS?
Many companies will match an employee's contribution to a nonprofit organization such as Landmark Volunteers. Please check with your company to see if they offer a matching gifts program.
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