Camp Myrtlewood Inc

Alcohol and Drug Policy

Purpose

Camp Myrtlewood Inc has a zero-tolerance policy for alcohol and drugs. Our staff care for children, youth, and guests, and that work requires everyone to be clear-headed and fully present. This policy reflects our values of safety, hospitality, and care for one another.

Who and where it applies

This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, and board members:

  • While working or on call, on or off camp property

  • At all times while on Camp Myrtlewood property (see the staff housing exception below)

  • During any camp-sponsored event, program, or trip, including staff trips, retreats, and overnight stays

  • While driving a camp vehicle or driving for camp business

What is prohibited

Except as allowed in the staff housing section below, the following are not allowed anywhere this policy applies:

  • Having, using, sharing, buying, or selling alcohol or illegal drugs

  • Arriving for work or a camp event under the influence of any of these

  • Storing illegal drugs anywhere on camp property, or storing alcohol anywhere other than your own staff housing

  • Providing alcohol or drugs to anyone else, including other staff or guests

This applies even where these substances are legal under Oregon law.

Staff housing

Staff who are 21 or older may drink their own alcohol in staff housing while off duty. Being intoxicated is not allowed at any time, including in staff housing.

  • Only while off duty, not while working, on call, or responsible for campers or guests

  • Keep alcohol in your own living space, out of sight of campers and guests

  • Never share alcohol with anyone under 21, campers, or rental guests

  • Illegal drugs are never allowed in staff housing

Prescription and over-the-counter medication

Medication taken as prescribed or as directed is allowed. If a medication could affect your alertness, judgment, or ability to drive or supervise, tell a director before your shift. You do not need to share your diagnosis.

Guests and rental groups

Camp Myrtlewood is an alcohol- and drug-free camp. Rental and retreat groups, guests, and visitors may not bring, use, or be under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs anywhere on camp property. Group leaders are responsible for making sure everyone in their group follows this rule. Staff who see a violation during a rental should report it to a Co-Executive Director.

Reporting concerns

If you see a policy violation or believe someone is impaired, tell a Co-Executive Director right away. If anyone is in danger, call 911 first. Reports are handled as privately as possible, and no one will face retaliation for reporting in good faith.

If a director reasonably believes someone is impaired, that person will be removed from duty and will not be allowed to drive. The camp will arrange safe transportation.

Consequences

Any violation of this policy may result in disciplinary action, up to and including immediate termination. A volunteer or board member may be removed from their role. Anyone who violates the policy during a camp trip or event may be sent home at their own expense. If a violation involves illegal activity or puts a minor at risk, the camp may report it to the appropriate authorities.