Camp La Junta: Volunteer Opportunities

Camp La Junta isn’t just about the campers — it’s about the community that sustains it. Whether you’re a local Kerrville resident or a former camper looking to give back, there are more ways to help than you might think.

Week-by-Week Volunteers

Each summer session, we need help in three areas:

Activity Instructors

  • Time commitment: One full week, any session
  • What you do: Assist with archery, riflery, or outdoor skills instruction
  • Requirements: Background check, brief training (provided)
  • Perks: Meals included, cabin lodging

We’re especially looking for volunteers with archery or firearms experience. Certification isn’t required — we train you — but steady hands and patience with kids are a must.

Kitchen & Dining Support

  • Time commitment: Minimum one week
  • What you do: Food prep, serving, dish crew
  • Requirements: Food handler’s permit (we’ll help you get it)
  • Perks: Great for seeing camp life without being “on”

This is the most needed position. If you want to experience camp atmosphere without leading activities, this is perfect.

Night Chaperones

  • Time commitment: 2-3 nights per session
  • What you do: Evening cabin check-ins, lights-out support
  • Requirements: 21+, background check
  • Perks: Stipend provided

Night volunteers handle the quiet hours — the most important volunteer role at camp. You’re the final pair of eyes before the kids sleep.

Year-Round Opportunities

Camp isn’t just a summer thing:

Spring Cleanup Day (April)

One Saturday in April, we tackle the property: trail clearing, facility repairs, painting. Bring gloves and sunscreen. Lunch provided. Great for families.

Scholarship Fundraising

We need help with:

  • Annual golf tournament (May)
  • Scholarship gala (September)
  • Donor outreach calls

None of these require being at camp — you can help remotely.

Facility Maintenance

Year-round, we need folks who know:

  • Plumbing and electrical basics
  • Carpentry and general repair
  • Landscaping and trail maintenance

Even a few hours a month makes a difference.

How to Apply

  1. Visit redhorse-scholarship.org/volunteer
  2. Fill out the interest form — tell us your skills and availability
  3. We’ll call you within one week to discuss placement

Or just call the camp office: (830) 257-7312. Ask for Martha — she handles all volunteer coordination.

Why Volunteer?

I’ve been around camp my whole life. My first summer at La Junta was 1987. The Redhorse Scholarship sent me to journalism school. Now I fund that scholarship for other kids.

But the real reason I volunteer? It’s watching a 12-year-old hit a bullseye for the first time. It’s seeing a homesick kid find their people. It’s knowing you were part of that.

That’s why we do it.