Frequently Asked Questions
What is the mission of Camp Tabarsi?
Camp Tabarsi is a Baha'i-inspired weekend sleepaway camp that focuses on the spiritual and social development of junior youth. The camp's mission is to empower campers through spiritual education, inclusive, loving friendships, and enthusiastic service to build unified communities.
When and where does Camp Tabarsi take place?
Camp Tabarsi takes place during Labor Day Weekend at Camp Onas in Bucks County Pennsylvania. Campers arrive between 6:00 – 8:00 P.M. on Friday night and stay until 2 P.M. on Monday afternoon.
The address is 609 Geigel Hill Rd, Ottsville, PA 18942.
What are the age requirements for campers and counselors?
Campers: The age range for campers is between 11 and 14 years old. We strive to create an engaging and inclusive environment for this age group, fostering friendships, personal growth, and memorable experiences.
Junior Counselors: If you're between 15 and 17 years old and have a passion for leadership and working with younger campers, our Junior Counselor program might be a perfect fit for you. Junior Counselors play a crucial role in assisting camp staff, participating in activities, and serving as positive role models for younger campers.
Senior Counselors: For those aged 18 and above, we offer opportunities to become senior counselors. Senior counselors bring their expertise, enthusiasm, and responsible attitude to create a safe and enjoyable camp experience. They provide guidance to junior counselors, oversee activities, and help facilitate a memorable summer for all campers.
We believe in creating a diverse and well-rounded camp community that benefits from the energy, talents, and dedication of individuals across various age groups.
My child is under 11 years old but is really well behaved. Can they still attend the camp?
We appreciate your interest in our camp and commend your child's good behavior. However, we regret to inform you that our camp is designed for campers within the age range of 11 to 14 years old. As much as we value well-behaved children, we have established the age requirement to ensure that all campers can fully engage in age-appropriate activities, social interactions, and experiences that align with their developmental needs. We encourage you to consider joining us in the future when your child meets the age criteria.
What is the safety protocol at Camp Tabarsi?
At Camp Tabarsi, the safety and well-being of our campers is of the utmost importance. Managing Directors Suzan and David Gould have over 40 years experiencing operating summer camps for children and junior youth. Comprehensive safety protocols are in place to ensure a secure, safe environment for everyone involved. While specific protocols may vary, here are some common elements that are typically part of our safety measures:
Trained Staff: All camp staff are required to undergo background clearances as directed by the National Spiritual Assembly of the United States and the State of Pennsylvania. Staff are trained in safety procedures and emergency response. They are knowledgeable and prepared to handle various situations that may arise during the camp session. Certified staff are in charge of pool and outdoor challenge areas.
Site Safety: Camp Onas, the venue where Camp Tabarsi takes place, is ACA accredited and regularly inspects the campsite, including buildings, equipment, and activity areas, to identify and address any potential safety hazards.
Emergency Preparedness: We have emergency response plans in place, including procedures for natural disasters, medical emergencies, and evacuation if necessary. Our staff is trained to implement these plans effectively and efficiently.
Health Care: We collect relevant medical information from campers prior to their arrival to ensure we are aware of any specific health concerns or allergies. Our on-site medical health care staff, including experienced nurses, are available to provide first aid care and attend to any health-related needs that may arise. Parents are responsible for providing all medication to the health care staff and parents are notified if medical care is necessary.
Supervision: Campers are supervised by trained staff members throughout the camp activities and during free time. We maintain appropriate camper-to-staff ratios to ensure proper supervision and individual attention.
Security Measures: We have measures in place to ensure the safety and security of campers, including controlled access to the campsite, identification procedures for authorized individuals, and protocols for monitoring visitors.
Camper Accountability: We have systems in place to track the whereabouts of campers during various activities, ensuring their safety and minimizing risk. Behavior expectations are clearly defined and parents are informed if a camper’s behavior becomes disruptive to the camp community.
Is Camp Tabarsi for Baha’is only?
Camp Tabarsi is open to anyone who wishes to participate, regardless of their faith tradition, creed, or cultural background. While the camp draws inspiration from Bahá'í values, it welcomes individuals from diverse backgrounds who are interested in learning about and embracing those values. The inclusive nature of Camp Tabarsi allows for the exploration and exchange of ideas, fostering understanding, unity, and friendship among participants from different walks of life.
What are the facilities like?
Campers and staff sleep in covered pavilions on bunks with mattresses. Campers must bring pillows and sleeping bags. There are shower and bathroom facilities. Girls and boys sleep in separate areas. Indoor and outdoor recreational and meeting facilities provide space for activities and workshops. Food is cooked and served in the camp kitchen and dining hall.
Are there showers and toilet facilities?
Yes, Camp Onas, the rustic venue where Camp Tabarsi takes place, provides limited shower and toilet facilities for participants. While the camp offers these amenities, it's important to note that the overall experience is designed to be rustic in nature. Participants have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a more natural and authentic environment while still having access to essential facilities for their comfort and convenience.
Can parents visit or contact their children during the camp session?
At Camp Tabarsi, we understand that parents may have a desire to stay connected with their children during their camp experience. We value the immersive camp experience and the opportunity for campers to develop friendships and bonds with their fellow campers. To foster this sense of immersion and fellowship, we encourage campers and parents to limit communication during the weekend. Emergency communication will be handled by adult staff.
By minimizing outside distractions and focusing on the camp activities and interactions, campers can fully engage in the camp experience, make new friends, and create lasting memories. This approach helps create a supportive and inclusive environment where campers can develop important life skills, independence, and a sense of community.
What is your policy on cell phones?
At Camp Tabarsi, we recognize the importance of fostering a healthy and balanced camp experience for our youth, including encouraging responsible use of technology and promoting meaningful connections with one another and the environment. With the aim of empowering our participants to make informed choices regarding their cell phone usage, we will work in tandem with our campers at the beginning of camp to develop a cell phone policy that prioritizes self-regulation, active engagement and community building.
Consultation and Collaborative Rule Creation:
We believe in the importance of involving our junior youth in decision-making processes that affect them directly. At the start of the camp, we will hold open discussions and consultation to collectively create rules and guidelines regarding appropriate cell phone use. This approach encourages ownership and ensures that the policies reflect the values and needs of our community.
Principles that will be incorporated into the consultation:
Building relationships & community
Being present in camp activities
Enjoying the natural environment
Availability to connect with parents when necessary
Do you offer scholarships at Camp Tabarsi to assist campers with limited financial means?
Yes, we offer Camperships to help make our camp accessible to those with limited financial means. We encourage you to contact our camp administration directly to inquire about available scholarship opportunities and discuss your specific circumstances. We believe in providing inclusive experiences for all campers and will work with you to find a suitable solution.
Please contact us directly at camptabarsi@gmail.com prior to registration.
Is it Camp Tabarsi or Camp Onas?
Camp Tabarsi is the name of our program, while Camp Onas serves as the venue where our activities take place. So, to clarify, we are Camp Tabarsi, and our program is hosted at Camp Onas. It's a wonderful collaboration that allows us to provide a fantastic experience in a beautiful, natural setting.