Taking a youth group to gktw?

[catycatcat4]

Hopefully in the next few months I will be taking the youth group kids from my church to volunteer at gktw.
Those of you who remember me from when I had the time to be more active on here probably didn't even realize that I'm old enough to do so now.

Anyway, the reason I'm posting is to ask if anyone has any advice and/or tips and tricks in taking a group of kids up there to volunteer.

Details:
The kids would range in age from 12-18 and a decent amount of youth sponsors.
This would likely be a one day trip.

The amount of people could vary from 10-30.

 

[*NikkiBell*]

There's a sticky thread on the top of the forum all about volunteering at GKTW. Here's a direct link:

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2729866

 

[DSNY4ever]

Sounds great! I remember David Parfitt the old podcast correspondent took a group from his school I think? I am not sure what happened to him though . I bet he would have good tips. Let us know how it goes. I really wanted to volunteer there but this trip my DS is too young to be left alone while we went to do that. Someday I'll get over there!

 

[snowwhitenyc]

That's awesome! Volunteering with a group at GKTW is a really amazing experience!

I'd recommend getting in touch with their really fantastic volunteer department soon to talk through options. For most volunteer shifts, you need to be 16 years old; there are some shifts (about 5-6 different options, if I recall correctly) that allow volunteers as young as 12, which will work for your group. But it may take a little coordination to be able to find a day with available slots for everyone. They may also have some special projects that would perfect for a group (this happens from time to time -- sometimes they'll have groups do a big Village cleanup or package orders for Christmas, for example), so it would be great to let them know of your group's interest in volunteering.

Also, there is some paperwork that everyone will need to submit ahead of time, so you'll want to allow some time to get that taken care of.

Otherwise, just know that you are going to have a really wonderful and rewarding experience -- and you will get to play a part in some of the happiest memories of some very special families!

 

[Mrs D]

Dave Parfitt (aka Mouse Skywalker) still takes a youth group to GKTW every year! GO find him on facebook. I'm sure he'd share his wealth of knowledge!

Good luck and have fun!