Camp Hope Counselor

YOUR IMPACT
Camp Hope Counselors create positive, nurturing relationships with children, while building cooperative relationships with parents/caregivers. The role provides direct supervision of a group of children in a week-long overnight camp setting and giving pathways of hope to participants. This position promotes and supports the potential of all youth in programs and facilitates peer-to-peer connections as part of the overall camp experience.

WHAT YOUR DAY MAY LOOK LIKE
No two days are the same in this role — but every day centers on creating a safe, memorable overnight camp experience where children build confidence, friendships, independence, and lifelong memories.

• Lead and supervise children during a one-week overnight camp experience
• Provide active, constant supervision to ensure camper safety during all activities and routines
• Serve as a positive YMCA role model by demonstrating core values in all interactions
• Plan and lead culturally relevant, developmentally appropriate activities aligned with YMCA values
• Create a fun, welcoming, and nurturing environment where campers feel supported and included
• Maintain clean cabins, program spaces, buildings, and grounds through strong camp stewardship
• Build positive relationships with campers, families, and fellow staff through clear communication and care
• Attend staff meetings, trainings, and prepare fully for camp responsibilities
• Follow YMCA policies and American Camp Association standards for safety, health, discipline, and emergencies
• Support camper growth through character development, teamwork, and positive behavior guidance

If you love camp life, enjoy mentoring youth, and want to create an unforgettable week of growth, adventure, and connection — this role is for you.

SCHEDULE & COMPENSATION: 7 Positions

Positions 1-7: YMCA Camp Winnebago and Walcamp
Seasonal, Exempt
Must be available to work One Week Overnight Camp plus Training:
Training June 9 - 11
Overnight Camp June 14 - 19
$1,200 stipend for the week of camp

FUNDING SOURCE
ICJIA/Community - Based Violence Prevention and Intervention Program, 100%, 12/12/2025 - 06/30/2028, Non-Renewable

QUALIFICATIONS

Age Group 1: Camp Hope Qualifications 18-20 years old:

• Minimum age of 18 years old and maximum age of 20 years old
• Able to work with children between ages of 8-12
• High school graduate or equivalent; one year or more of college preferred
• Previous experience working with children, preferably in a day camp setting
• Experience preferred in one or more of the following areas: outdoor living, archery, boating, camping, songs/music, skits, sports, aquatics and recreational games
• Attend trauma-informed training upon hire
• IL DCFS Child Abuse and Neglect/Mandated Reporter
• CPR & First Aid/AED certification required upon hire
• Current Praesidium Academy trainings required

Age Group 2: Camp Hope Qualifications 21-24 years old:

• Minimum age of 21 years old and maximum age of 24 years old
• Able to work with children between ages of 13-17
• High school graduate or equivalent; one year or more of college preferred
• Previous experience working with children, preferably in a day camp setting
• Experience preferred in one or more of the following areas: outdoor living, archery, boating, camping, songs/music, skits, sports, aquatics and recreational games
• Attend trauma-informed training upon hire
• IL DCFS Child Abuse and Neglect/Mandated Reporter
• CPR & First Aid/AED certification required upon hire
• Current Praesidium Academy trainings required

THERE'S SO MUCH MORE TO WORKING AT THE Y! Employment benefit information available HERE.

The Y is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We offer more than just a job, rather the opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of those around you.

The Y: We're for Youth Development, Healthy Living and Social Responsibility