Answers to Parents' Questions

Q. Is the crew well supervised?

Youth volunteers learn valuable teamwork skills and earn community service credit during Youth Volunteer Vacations.

A. Yes. WTA’s chief crew leader and assistant crew leader are in charge of the group at all times. As WTA’s leaders, they will guide the work, camp life and make sure everyone is having a good time. The leader has the authority to ask members of the group to leave the work party (by contacting the parents or guardian) if their behavior and conduct is not suitable to the conduct of the work party. Crew leaders have wilderness training, criminal background checks, previous experience working with youth and outdoor living. The adult to volunteer ratio is 1:5.

Q. Can you accommodate food allergies and/or special requests?
A. Yes, but we need to know in advance. When you apply, be SURE to indicate your food allergies/preferences in the space given to you in the application.  We do most of our shopping in bulk, so please realize that we may not be able to make major menu adjustments, but we have commonly been able to accommodate the menu for lactose allergies and vegetarians. 

Q. Does my child need another physical if his/her last one was dated less than 1 year ago?
A. WTA requires a physical exam within one year of the program start date. You must complete the Medical Form online and submit it as part of the application process. Please update the WTA office if any changes occur before the trip starts. Volunteers will be contacted prior to the trip to check in about any recent changes in health status.

Q. What kind of payment do you accept?
A. We accept major credit cards for volunteers who submit the on-line application. Otherwise you may mail a personal check to Washington Trails Association, 2019 Third Ave., Suite 100, Seattle, WA 98121. Please indicate the name of the volunteer and date/location of vacation.

Q. Who is responsible for transportation to the meeting point?
A. Volunteers are responsible for their own transportation to the designated meeting point. WTA will make efforts to arrange car pools through our online system, but cannot guarantee any transportation. All of our front country trips begin on Sunday afternoon at 4pm and end the following Friday at 4pm. There must be someone to pick you up at 4pm, as our crew leaders are officially on their weekend break starting at that time. All of the Advanced Backcountry trips begin on Saturday morning and end the following Saturday. 

Q. Is it okay for my child to drive himself or herself?
A. If your child drives to the program, he or she will be required to park his or her car in the location designated by the crew leader and must leave the keys with him or her. Volunteers driving any vehicle during the trip is prohibited.

Q. Can I contact my child during the week?
A. We understand a week can seem like a long time away from your child, but we prefer that you hold off from contacting your son or daughter unless it is an emergency. If you feel the need to be in contact with your child please contact the WTA office and we will put you in touch with the crew leader. Please keep in mind that cell phones may not work directly at the campsite.