FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Where is Cascades located?

Cascades is located 25 miles east of Olympia and Interstate-5 near Yelm, Washington. It's approximately 90 minutes from Seattle and just over two hours from Portland.
How long is the time commitment?

The average commitment is between 6-12 weeks, though shorter contracts are available in some cases. Head here for information on specific start and end dates.
What is the compensation?

Monthly salary ranges from $1,300 to $1,500 depending on the number of summers previously worked at Cascades. Head here for more information on the salary range and additional bonuses.
Is there a deadline to apply?

We continue to hire until all of our positions have been filled, so there is no official deadline to apply. However, many of our positions do fill up quickly, so we would recommend applying as soon as you can.
Is there an age requirement to work on summer staff?

We ask that all summer staff have finished high school and are at least 18 years old.
Are lodging and meals provided?

Yes, all lodging and meals are provided. We don't have your typical "camp food" either - our food services team does an amazing job of keeping things fresh, including accommodating for a variety of special dietary needs.
Do I get any time off?

You will receive a short break each day and 24 hours off or more each week. Exact days and times vary by position and department, but the majority of staff will receive their 24 hours off each weekend. Requests for additional time off (for weddings, graduations, etc.) will be considered on a case-by-case basis during the application process.
Can I do laundry while I am there?

We have two washers and two dryers available for shared use. You are responsible for your own detergent. There's also a laundromat nearby in the town of Yelm.
Can serving on summer staff count as an internship?

We're more than happy to chat and see if a position on summer staff will fulfill the requirements you're looking for. In the past, we've had summer staff receive credit for internships in engineering, education, media studies, business, youth ministry, and more.
Why serve at Cascades as opposed to another summer job?

Make friendships that will last a lifetime. Develop your leadership skills. Build up your resume. Gain hands-on ministry experience. Grow emotionally and spiritually. Laugh until your sides hurt. Explore one of the most breathtaking corners of creation. Save money from typical commuting costs. Constantly find yourself exclaiming, "We're getting paid to do this?!" We could go on for hours, but we'll let these folks convince you...
What if I am coming from out of state to serve at Cascades? Will camp help with travel costs?

Cascades offers a summer staff grant that allows summer staff with financial need to apply for extra assistance. This is so finances are not a barrier to working at camp. This grant can be used for travel expenses, like airfare.
Will I have access to technology while I am there?

We want our campers and guests to get away from the distractions of everyday life, and limiting our technology usage as staff is one of the ways we carry this out. With that said, free Wi-Fi is available to staff during off-duty hours.
What should I bring with me?

If you are hired for summer staff, you will be sent a full packing list via email when summer gets closer.