Each year it takes many dedicated volunteers from all over the U.S. to make Camp AN a reality. If you have a heart for ministry and want to experience it firsthand, we encourage you to prayerfully consider becoming a part of this fulfilling, life changing ministry.
How to Become a Camp AN Volunteer
Serving at Camp AN is a rewarding opportunity, and we want to make the process simple and clear. Please follow these steps:
Step 1: Fill Out the Worker Application
Start by completing the online Camp Registration Form. *All volunteer workers are required to fill out this form.
Step 2: Complete Background Screening
After your application has been reviewed, our Assistant Director will contact you—either by Zoom or by phone—for an initial meeting. This gives us a chance to connect with you personally, answer any questions, and share more about serving at Camp AN. If, after this conversation, you wish to proceed, you will then complete the Background Screening Form through the Alaska Ministry Network. The form is located under the Resources Tab on their website. Once filled out, it may be emailed or mailed with payment to the Network Office.
Alaska Ministry Network Office
1048 W. International Airport Road, Suite 101
Anchorage, AK 99518
📧 Email: info@alaskaag.org
📞 Phone: (907) 562-2247
Step 3: Purchase Travel Insurance
All workers are required to purchase short-term missions insurance before coming to camp. This is required of all AG Missions teams. The cost is approximately $1.25 per person per day and can be purchased online. Proof of coverage must be submitted to the Camp Director prior to arrival.
🔗 Purchase Mission Assure Insurance
Step 4: Plan Your Trip
Once your background screening is approved by the district, you can begin planning your trip to Camp AN! See the travel details below for guidance on flights, bush planes, and the final boat ride to camp.
Traveling to Camp
Getting to Camp AN is part of the adventure! Because the camp is located in remote western Alaska, all travel is coordinated in steps:
- Anchorage to Bethel
If you are flying from the Lower 48, we recommend booking a multi-city ticket that includes your connection all the way to Bethel. Alaska Airlines provides regular flights between Anchorage and Bethel.
🔗 Book through Alaska Airlines - Bethel to Emmonak
From Bethel, you’ll take a smaller bush flight into the village of Emmonak, the closest community to camp. Grant Aviation is the primary carrier serving this route.
🔗 Check schedules with Grant Aviation - Emmonak to Camp AN
Once you arrive in Emmonak, Camp AN staff will pick you up from the airstrip by ATV and trailer. They will then coordinate a 17-mile boat ride up the Yukon River to the camp’s location on the Akularak River. All supplies and luggage also make this journey by boat, so plan to pack with travel in mind.
As you make your travel plans, please feel free to reach out to our Assistant Director, Rev. Phillip Boswell, with any questions. He can be contacted at pastorphillipb@gmail.com.
Volunteer FAQ
How much does the background check cost?
The Alaska Ministry Network charges a $25 fee for each background check. Payment instructions are included with the screening form.
What if my application or background check is delayed?
Sometimes delays can happen. We strongly recommend that each worker submit their Worker Application and Background Screening in March to avoid last-minute issues. Please note: No worker will be allowed to come if screening has not been approved.
If you are between the ages of 18–25, we recommend that you submit a photo of your driver’s license with your Background Screening form to help avoid any delays in processing.
Do I need to send my background screening form directly to Camp AN?
No. All background screening forms must be submitted to the Alaska Ministry Network Office (by mail or email). Camp AN will be notified when your screening is approved.
Can I bring my medications with me?
All medications (prescriptions and over-the-counter) must be turned in to the camp nurses upon arrival. For safety reasons, coaches and campers are not allowed to keep medications in dorms.
Is there cell service or internet at camp?
Cell service and internet are extremely limited or unavailable. Plan ahead for being “off-grid” during your stay, and let family or employers know you’ll have minimal communication access.
What should I know about the boat ride to camp?
All workers and supplies travel the final 17 miles by boat up the Yukon River to the camp’s location on the Akularak River. The ride typically takes 45 minutes to an hour, depending on weather and river conditions. For safety, life jackets are required and provided for all passengers. The trip can sometimes be wet and bumpy, so waterproof clothing is recommended. If you are prone to motion sickness, bring medication or other remedies to help you stay comfortable. Delays due to river conditions may occur, so plan ahead and keep a flexible attitude.All luggage also travels by boat—so if you don’t have waterproof duffel bags or totes, pack items in large trash bags inside your luggage to keep them dry.
When should I buy my plane ticket?
Please wait until your background check has been approved before purchasing your flight to Alaska. This ensures you are fully cleared to serve at camp.
What should I pack?
Please download and review the full Camp AN Worker Packing Checklist (PDF) for a detailed, printable guide.