Cabin Counselor
Cabin Counselor - Multiple locations, program types, and program lengths
Join us in our mission to provide life-changing experiences that enhance independence and self-esteem for children and adults with disabilities!
About the Role:
As a Cabin Counselor, you'll make a real difference while having the summer of a lifetime! Lead adventures, games, and activities, encourage social connections, and help campers build confidence and independence. Share laughs in the cabin, cheer them on during activities, and create memories that campers - and you - will never forget.
Specific duties, schedules, locations, and responsibilities vary by assignment. We work to match counselors with roles that align with their interests, experience, and strengths.
No matter the assignment, staff receive comprehensive training and strong support while gaining hands-on experience working directly with campers. You'll build leadership and teamwork skills, gain valuable professional experiences, and make a meaningful impact all in a fun, inclusive camp environment where lasting memories are made.
Program & Assignment Types:
Overnight residential camp program
- Runs for 11 weeks, plus 2 weeks of staff training
- Fully designed and operated by True Friends
- Campers and staff stay on-site overnight (sessions typically run Sunday - Friday)
- Counselors provide 24-hour supervision, including evenings and overnights
- Responsibilities include supporting activities of daily living (ADLs) and personal cares, monitoring routines, meals, activities, evening programs, and bedtime support
- Support individuals of all ages and abilities
Partner Program
- Runs for 5-6 weeks, plus a minimum of 1 week of training
- Counselors support campers based on the specific needs and structure of the partner organization's program
- Responsibilities may differ depending on the needs of the specific program and include supervising and supporting campers. ADLs and personal cares not included
- Support children with physical disabilities
What You'll Do:
- Support campers social, emotional and physical needs
- Lead the way in creating fun, friendship, and adventure
- Support campers with a variety of needs, as needed based on assignment
- Help foster a loving, inclusive, and supportive environment
- Create opportunities for campers of all abilities to try new things, build skills, and step outside their comfort zones
- Set clear expectations, ensure campers' basic needs are met, and build meaningful relationships that support both learning and fun
- Develop valuable professional skills - both hard and soft - that will benefit you long after summer ends
- Work outdoors in all weather conditions (heat, cold, rain)
- Stand, walk, sit, bend, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, and move continually during working hours
- Hear and communicate verbally with participants and team members
- Use hands and fingers to operate tools and equipment
What You'll Gain:
- Opportunities to build and strengthen leadership skills
- Hands-on, career-relevant experience working directly with campers
- The chance to build your resume and portfolio with diverse, meaningful work
- Meals and lodging provided during employment
- The opportunity to live and work in a scenic, inspiring environment
- Lifelong skills, friendships, and memories - and SO MUCH MORE!
What You'll Bring to the Table:
- Must be 18 years of age or older
- Must be able to pass organizational background study
- Willing to step outside your comfort zone and try new things
- Passionate about making a difference
- Comfortable supporting others with a range of needs, which may include assisting with activities of daily living (ADLs) and personal cares for some positions
- Open to living and working in a communal setting
- Eager to take initiative and demonstrate a strong work ethic
- Flexible and adaptable in an ever-changing environment
- Highly valued, but not required: camping experience, prior experience working with individuals with disabilities