Lead Camp Counselor - Camp Connections 2026

Overview:

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and adults with disabilities? Join the Barber National Institute as a Lead Camp Counselor for Camp Connections this summer!

As a Lead Camp Counselor, you will create a fun, safe, and inclusive environment where campers can learn, grow, and enjoy new experiences. You’ll be active in developing plans for our summer camp which will help participants build social and emotional skills in a supportive environment. Specifically, you will be responsible for implementing social skills curriculum and leading daily lesson plans for campers. Camp activities include classroom instruction, field trips, arts and crafts, and games.

Location: Sarah Reed Hamilton Site, 2931 Harvard Blvd, Erie, PA 16508

Orientation Dates for staff: 6/15/26- 6/17/26

Camp set up day and Open House: 6/18/26

Camper dates: 6/19/26- 7/30/26

Camp cleanup day: 7/31/26

What you’ll need:

• Must be 18 years of age
• Completed at least one year of college
• At least one year of experience working with children or children with disabilities
• Valid driver’s license and good driving record
• Eligibility for:
  • State Police Criminal Record Check
  • Child Abuse History Clearance
  • FBI DHS Fingerprinting
• FBI clearance required for individuals who do not meet PA residency requirements (FBI Aging)

What you’ll have:

• Positive attitude and willingness to make a difference
• Patience and empathy when working with individuals of diverse backgrounds and needs
• Strong communication skills for collaboration with team members, individuals, and families.

Typical day-to-day:

• Lead engaging activities (arts and crafts, sports, outdoor adventures)
• Implement social skills curriculum and guide daily lessons
• Assist with meals, transitions, and daily routines
• Encourage camper participation while ensuring safety at all times
• Collaborate with fellow counselors to create a positive camper experience
• Help campers build friendships, develop independence, and have fun.

Who is Barber National Institute?

The Barber National Institute is a non-profit committed to its mission of providing the highest quality services for children and adults with autism, intellectual disabilities or behavioral health challenges and their families. Since our founding in 1952, we have evolved into a multi-faceted organization serving more than 6,200 individuals annually with a wide range of educational, vocational, residential and behavioral health programs.

We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, disability or any other legally protected status. If you need an accommodation to apply, please contact HR. EOE

Any consideration of the background check will be an individualized assessment based on the applicant or employee’s specific record and the duties and requirements of the specific job