Robin and Mani’s All Buddy Camp: Teen Volunteer Opportunity – Applications Due April 15

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Robin and Mani's All Buddy Camp

All Buddy Camp is a unique volunteer opportunity for rising juniors and seniors attending an Albemarle County or Charlottesville City high school. A Big Buddy at All Buddy Camp is paired with a preschool age student with special needs (Little Buddy) and works cooperatively with our professional program staff. Buddies work one-on-one with each other for the entire week of camp. All Buddy Camp is a tribute to Robin and Mani Aldridge, who were committed to children with disabilities, art, and fun!

The Buddy Program experience often satisfies a student’s community service requirements for graduation. In addition, because of this experience, many Buddies have expressed interest in pursuing a career in a related field, including special education, occupational or speech therapy, art and music therapy, etc., as they enter college.

An application process is required for those interested in becoming a Buddy. Students accepted into the program participate in a mandatory orientation session in order to prepare for the experience.

Volunteer requirements:

  • Completed application and parent permission
  • Rising junior or senior attending an Albemarle County or Charlottesville City high shool
  • Desire to work with preschool-age students with disabilities in a fun, structured environment
  • Must commit to attending camp at Johnson Elementary School (June 17-21, 2019, from 8:15 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.) and one orientation/training day (Friday, June 14)
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Must be able to provide transportation to and from training and each camp day
  • Criminal record/background check (at no cost to the volunteer)

What it takes to be a good Buddy: Patience, laughter, respect, enthusiasm, friendliness, playfulness, and a positive attitude!

Deadline for applications: Applications are due by 4 p.m. on April 15, 2019. Complete either the online application or download a printable version of the form.

For more information about Robin and Mani’s All Buddy Camp, contact Sarah Blech (City of Charlottesville) at (434) 970-3264 or blechs@charlottesville.org, or Rachel McLaughlin (Charlottesville High School) at Rachel.McLaughlin@charlottesvilleschools.org.