As we wrap up another incredible summer of volunteering at Camp Mini-Yo-We, I always enjoy getting one particular email from our HR Coordinator—the volunteer survey results and stats! We encourage adult volunteers to share their thoughts through our weekly volunteer survey in the summer. We actively seek this input because we are committed to continually strengthening their experience. At the end of the summer, we also pull together a list of statistics to help us better understand what is happening behind the scenes. For some people, that may seem boring, but I think it’s awesome. I love comparing each year to the last, hearing the feedback, and thinking about what it means for the future! For those other data geeks out there, I thought I would share some facts because the numbers paint an incredible story of the adult volunteer experience.
Summer 2027 Volunteering is 67% Full!
One of the metrics we always focus on is retention and whether our volunteers want to return the following year. We were amazed that in Summer 2026 we welcomed 154 returning volunteers. The roster was full and just 14% of our total volunteers were new to the role. There is always going to be space for new faces on the volunteer team, but we are incredibly encouraged by the desire for volunteers to return year after year. Not only does it create a strong community to return to, but it provides the experience and expertise for new volunteers to thrive in their role as well.
Volunteer applications for Summer 2027 have been open since July, and while it’s not even October, we already have 140 of the 208 volunteer spots filled! That’s 67% full! Here is what we are hearing from volunteers that drives the desire to return:
“Volunteering was a beautiful experience. We had a very good team and an excellent head cook who was firm, humble, and most importantly shared the love of God. I will definitely volunteer again next year.” – Jenny N.
“Amazing experience… it just keeps getting better!! We are so thankful to Camp Mini-Yo-We for existing and that we can live vicariously through the kids. I am looking forward to volunteering next year!” – Kasia L.
If you are thinking of volunteering next year, now is the time to apply! You can learn more about the experience here and apply online here.
Driven By Feedback
Volunteers have a unique front-row seat to the camp experience, and we love to gather feedback to see how we can improve each year. This feedback has driven improvements to our accommodations and washrooms, the types of evening activities we offer adults, swimming availability, and more. By checking the same metrics every year, we track trends in areas such as the application process, communications, and the overall experience. Summer 2026 was no exception to strong results:
- 6.5 out of 7 for the overall volunteer experience
- 6.7 out of 7 for the application process
- 6.8 out of 7 for pre-arrival communication
- 6.8 out of 7 for the value of volunteering
We also track something called a Net Promoter question, “How likely are you to recommend volunteering at Camp Mini-Yo-We to a friend?”. In the non-profit sector, a Net Promoter Score above +50 is considered excellent, and +70 is recognized as world-class. This summer, our volunteers awarded Camp Mini-Yo-We a +76 Net Promoter Score for their experience! That puts volunteering at Camp alongside top-rated organizations and experiences worldwide. This really is a testament to the incredible community, purpose, and care that defines Camp Mini-Yo-We.
Here is what a few volunteers said about the experience in their survey:
“I was extremely impressed by the level of organization throughout all aspects of Camp, but especially the kitchen. My head cook deserves a high five for her incredible leadership. Due to her experience, ability to communicate, and delegate, the week ran so smoothly. It was truly a life-changing experience for our family. Thank you.” – Rhonda M.
“My volunteer experience overall is always positive. Camp Mini-Yo-We is a meaningful, purpose-driven experience. As a volunteer, I see the results of the camp as a whole and the positive influence it has on campers.” – Mark V.
Volunteer Data Snapshot
Who makes up the volunteers at Camp Mini-Yo-We? It’s wide group, ranging from parents and grandparents to alumni and friends of the ministry. This year’s stats showed us that:
- The median age for volunteers was 47!
- Our teams were made up of 68% women and 32% men!
- 14% of the adult volunteers were new to volunteering at Camp Mini-Yo-We!
- 26 volunteers served for two or more weeks!
- Over 40% were former Mini-Yo-We campers and summer staff!
- 206 volunteer discounts were applied to camper fees, reflecting $122,000!
- About 70% served with at least one family member or friend!
Apply for Summer 2027 Today!
Whether you are a returning volunteer or considering joining us for the first time, there is a place for you on our team! We are currently looking for volunteers to fill critical roles across three core teams:
- Food Service Team (Cooks & Head Cooks): Help nourish hundreds of hungry campers and staff each day! Working in our kitchens is high-energy, hugely rewarding, and filled with great fellowship.
- Medical Team (Nurses, Doctors, Paramedics): Keep our camp community safe and healthy. Our medical professionals provide essential care so campers can enjoy their week with confidence.
- Facility Team (Maintenance & Custodial): Help keep our grounds beautiful, safe, and running smoothly through hands-on maintenance projects and custodial care in our washrooms and facilities.
Volunteering at Camp Mini-Yo-We is more than just serving—it’s an opportunity to build community, enjoy camp amenities during your off-hours, grow spiritually, and directly impact the lives of young people. If you are a current camper family looking to offset camp fees through our volunteer discounts, or a community member eager to give back, we would love to have you on board!
- Learn More & Apply: www.campmyw.com/volunteer
- Get in Touch: Contact Chi Chi Ibe, our new HR & Volunteer Coordinator, at volunteers@miniyowe.com or call 705-385-2629!
Spots fill up quickly, so don’t wait! Sign up today and be a part of what God is doing at Camp Mini-Yo-We in Summer 2027!