The Rand Family Staff Fund
This fund is an annual award offered by the Rand family to a Pathfinder staff person or persons who wish to further their professional development in the field of camping and counseling. The Rand family history at Pathfinder dates back to 1927, when Stan and Van Rand (Mac’s father and uncle) began their careers. Three generations of Rands have attended camp, with a total of over 70 summers spent on the island. Pathfinder has been a very special place to every one of us who has attended, and it is our hope that this fund will, in some small way, help advance the training and professionalism of our staff to the highest degree possible.
All staff are eligible to apply for funding to take courses, workshops, or other programs that will benefit them and, in turn, allow them to be better teachers and role models for Pathfinder campers.
Who can apply?
Applications for funding can be made by any current Pathfinder staff. In other words, if you worked at camp last summer, you are eligible. A firm commitment to camp for this coming summer is not required, though obviously the intention of this award is to help you be a better counselor---and that counseling should be at Pathfinder!
What do I have to do?
First, look around for programs of interest. Local or national outdoor education groups, your school, stores such as EMS, Scouts, or a wide variety of other sources might offer these. When you find something that truly interests you, complete the application and send it to me, along with a brochure (if possible) describing the program.
For an application form, contact Mac Rand at the address below.
Mac Rand
49 Cunningham Lane
Pawling, NY 12564
845-593-2044
shadypoint@hotmail.com
What kind of courses will be considered?
A wide variety of programs are acceptable. “Hard skills” might include canoeing or camping courses in which you become more proficient at specific activities. “Soft skills” are ways you can work more effectively with children. Any course that will make you a better counselor will be considered.
Is there a date cut off?
Yes. Please return your application form by no later than March 1st. All applications received by then will be reviewed.
How will the funds be allocated?
This depends on the number of applications received, and the cost of each. It may be that partial funding awards will be given to several people, or perhaps one person will receive the full amount. Do not count on necessarily receiving the full amount of the program; however, we will try and help out as many staff as possible, assuming the programs meet the criteria. The maximum amount awarded each calendar year is $500.00 (U.S.) or the Canadian fund equivalent.
Can I take a course before March 1st and then apply for reimbursement?
Yes, but don’t take the course and assume you will receive an award to pay for it. It is not guaranteed that you will be awarded a scholarship to recoup the expenses of the course.
I’m not sure if the course I’m considering meets the standards of this fund. What do I do?
Contact Mac Rand and let’s talk.
Mac Rand
49 Cunningham Lane
Pawling, NY 12564
845-593-2044