Staff Culture

Common Courtesy

1. Assume the best about others.

• When something feels off or someone makes a mistake, choose to believe they meant well.

• Give grace before jumping to conclusions or assigning blame.

• Remember that everyone is tired at times and learning as they go—just like you.

2. Make an intentional effort to connect with people.

• Ask genuine questions and take time to listen.

• Don’t just stick with the people you’re most comfortable with—this builds a stronger, more unified team.

3. Pursue unity and community as a staff.

• We are all on the same team, working toward the same goal: loving kids and introducing them to Christ.

• Support each other with encouragement, prayer, and practical help.

• Avoid cliques, exclusive behavior, or actions that might alienate others.

4. Be present and available.

• Offer help when you see someone struggling, even if it’s not your assigned task.

• Show up on time, prepared, and ready to serve.

5. Be respectful.

• Speak in a way that builds others up, not tears them down.

• Avoid inside jokes or teasing that could make others feel left out or uncomfortable.

• Say please, thank you, and apologize when needed—it goes a long way.

• Respect people’s space, time, and belongings.

• Keep shared spaces clean and pick up after yourself.

• Don’t take or borrow things without asking.

• Give people space when they need it.

6. Cheer each other on.

• Celebrate others’ wins, whether it's a great devotion, a fun activity, or someone stepping up to help.

• Be a source of encouragement throughout the week.

• A kind word, a quick prayer, or a high five can shift someone’s whole day.

Conflict Resolution

1. Address conflict directly and respectfully.

• If someone hurts or offends you, go to them privately and calmly.

• Avoid talking about the issue with others who aren’t involved.

• Most issues can be resolved with an honest, one-on-one conversation.

2. Follow the biblical model for conflict resolution (Matthew 18:15–17).

• First, talk to the person one-on-one.

• If the issue isn’t resolved, bring it to a leadership staff member.

• This model helps preserve unity and prevents gossip or division.

3. Use discretion.

• Know when to stop talking about the problem—especially in group settings.

• Don’t bring up conflicts during meals, group activities, or in front of campers.

• Keep sensitive issues private and be thoughtful with your words.

4. Be aware of your surroundings.

• Consider where you are and who’s around before discussing any personal or sensitive issues.

• Remember that campers and other staff are watching how you handle conflict.

• Model maturity, patience, and grace at all times.

5. Aim for resolution, not just being right.

• Approach conflict with a desire to understand, not just defend yourself.

• Listen with humility and be open to correction or compromise.

• Unity is more important than winning an argument.

6. Don’t let things build up.

• Small frustrations can grow into bigger issues if left unaddressed.

• If something continues to bother you, talk it out instead of letting it fester.

• A short, honest conversation can prevent a week-long tension.

Gossip

Gossip is not tolerated under any circumstances.

• At Camp Trinity, we commit to protecting the unity and trust of our staff team.

• Gossip is destructive and divisive, and it will not be allowed to take root in our community.

• Gossip is the killer of unity. We are all on the same team, and gossip undermines our ability to work together toward our common goal of loving and serving our campers. It can damage relationships that have taken time to build and weaken the effectiveness of our team.

• As a staff, we must protect each other’s reputations and strive to create an environment of honesty and respect.

1. What is gossip?

• Gossip is speaking negatively about someone to others who are not part of the problem or the solution. This includes:

  • Sharing unverified or personal information about others

  • Venting frustrations about someone behind their back

  • Stirring division through words or attitudes

• Gossip is not:

  • Seeking counsel from a leadership staff member in a healthy, confidential, and appropriate setting

  • Bringing up an issue directly to the person involved in a respectful and loving manner

2. Gossip is grounds for staff discipline. 

   • The first offense will result in a verbal warning.

   • If the problem continues, a written warning will be issued.

   • If an individual is then continuing to spread gossip, they will be dismissed from the summer staff. 

3. We are all responsible for maintaining a positive, healthy atmosphere.

• If you hear gossip, speak up in a respectful way, or bring the issue to leadership to help resolve it.

• Gossip cannot occur if there is no one there to listen. If you find yourself a listener of gossip, remove yourself from the situation or change the subject.

• Let’s all be champions of truth and unity, creating a safe and supportive space for each other.

Leadership

1. A Christ-like leader serves, puts others first, and leads by example. You should looking for ways to help and serve your fellow counselors. 

   1. • Exhibit patience with them even when you're tired

      • Step up if they need to step away

      • Divide responsibilities and ensure you're taking your share of the load

2. You should be actively looking out for the best interests of your fellow staff members. Know your co-counselors well enough to anticipate what their best interests are.

   1. • Play to your strengths and allow others to play to theirs

      • Listen and show compassion

      • Seek to build relationships with one another

3. Strong leaders are present and prepared. You should be an asset to your fellow staff, not a hindrance.

   1. • Put your phone away and seek to be engaged and invested

      • Ensure you have everything you need at the beginning of the day

      • Keep track of all important items - losing things impacts the entire group

      • Be responsible and stick to your schedule

      • Arrive in appropriate attire, ready to work

Professionalism

1. Communication

• You need to communicate with Leadership staff and your co-counselors in a timely and respectful manner. 

• Stay on top of emails and Group-Me messages.

• All messaging with Leadership and other staff members should be professional, despite your degree of familiarity with the person you are communicating with.

• If you need to leave early or switch a schedule, talk to those who are working that day; it is your responsibility to find a replacement for time-off not pre-assigned. 

  1. 1. 1. 1. • Text the Director and Coordinator of your program (Sports Camp/Day Camp) to make them aware of the switch and that both parties have confirmed the change in schedule.  

2. Personal vs. Work Time

• Your phone should only be out to take pictures or to communicate with other staff on important matters.

• If you need to step away for a moment to take care of a personal matter, communicate with Leadership and your co-counselors to ensure that your group is not left unattended.

• Do not let your friendships with other staff members be a distraction. 

• Ensure that any communication with other staff members sets a positive example for your campers. Gossip and slander are not acceptable.