Leadership Applications for Summer 2026 will open on December 1, 2025.
Our volunteers support our mission of building a world of belonging by leading week-long programs, building communities in our regional locations, and welcoming new participants to PALS!
The most common role at PALS is our 1-1 match where a Peer without Down syndrome is paired with an individual with Down syndrome. To be a Peer, you are required to be high school age (approximately 15) and older. Click here to learn about the Peer role.
Volunteer Leaders are required to be 18 and older.
Peer
Peers are full participants at PALS programs and are paired 1:1 with a participant with Down syndrome to experience a fun-filled week together. Peers can join us beginning at age 15 and do not need any prior training or experience to join!
Learn more here.
Program Lead
The Program Lead works with PALS staff to create and facilitate PALS’ signature week-long overnight programs. Program Leads work as a team of two people to build a fun and inclusive schedule, work with a provided budget, welcome participants to programs, and put our mission into action! Preference is given to those who live within the region of their assigned program.
Learn more here.
Team Lead
The Team Lead leads a team at camp. Team Leads provide support, build camaraderie, and ensure the safety and well-being of a team of participants. Team Leads work closely with the Program Leads and the other Team Leads in the weeks leading up to the program to receive training and build trust as part of a Leadership team.
Learn more here.
Medical Team
Our Medical Team supports and assesses all safety and health concerns at camp. Medical Teams vary across programs. The team is most often comprised of a Medical Lead (MD, DO, NP, PA, RN, LPN) and a Medical Assistant (CNA, LPN, EMT, OT, PT, or any other clinical qualifications, medical student, or MD, NP or RN with out-of-state licensure). Please review our Leadership FAQ to learn more about Medical Team qualifications.
Learn more here.
Media Team
Our Media Team captures the magic of PALS and typically includes a Media Lead (experienced photographer or videographer) and a Media Assistant (someone with an interest in photography, videography, and/or social media). Most media volunteers stay on-site during the week, though accommodations can be made for professionals who are interested in donating smaller chunks of time. Interested volunteers will be asked to submit a portfolio for review.
Learn more here.
Support Lead
The Support Lead role plays an integral role in the inner workings of the week of camp. They work alongside the Program Leads to assist with executing the program schedule, to support Team Leads, and to play a vital role in carrying out the emergency and safety protocols of the program.
Learn more here.
Can’t join us for a full week? Here are other ways to get involved!
Activity Lead
The Activity Lead runs a particular event or activity during the week of camp. Activity Leads have a specialized skill and are comfortable facilitating a large group of people. They work with the Program Leads to ensure they have everything they need to plan and lead the activity. The Activity Lead role is available to all enrolled participants (with and without Down syndrome).
Previous PALS participants, donors, and outside organizations who are interesting in offering programming to camp for just a day can contact us at support@palsprograms.org to share their ideas!
Learn more here.
Please read more about our Commitment to Diversity.
Want more?
If you can’t find the right role, feel free to contact us at support@palsprograms.org to share more about your interest and experience. PALS is always looking for individuals, groups, and companies to share about our mission, enhance programming opportunities, and help raise funds to grow our impact. Learn more here.
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