Summer Camp Counselor (Youth ages 8-17), Fresh Air Camps

Fresh Air; New York (NY); On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job description

Summer Camp Counselor (Youth ages 8-17), Fresh Air Camps

Fresh Air Camps | Hudson Valley, NY | June 16, 2025 – August 16, 2025

Make a Difference This Summer!
Are you ready to gain hands-on leadership experience while creating unforgettable memories for youth in the great outdoors? Join one of Fresh Air’s four overnight summer camps designed for older age groups (youth ages 8-17). Work as a Summer Camp Counselor and contribute to a 145-year legacy of providing transformative summer experiences for children from New York City’s underserved communities. Located in the beautiful Hudson Valley, each camp provides unique programming tailored to different age groups and interests, from outdoor adventure to arts and sciences.

This position requires living onsite at camp from June 16 to August 16, 2025, shared housing provided. Compensation for this role is $2,500 for the summer.

Camps

• Camp Junior: For youth, 8-17 years old, from the Bronx. The camp is in memory of Lesandro “Junior” Guzman-Feliz, a 15-year-old victim of gang violence.
• Camp ABC: For girls 9–14 years old and a home away from home for many of our campers who return year after year.
• Camp Hayden-Marks: For boys, 9-14 years old. Campers’ favorite activities include outdoor adventure, sports, and swimming.
• Camp Tommy: For youth, 15-17 years old. The camp has a focus on leadership development and is home to the Leaders-in-Training and Counselors-in-Training programs.

Life as a Camp Counselor:
Working at an overnight camp is an immersive, all-encompassing experience. As a Camp Counselor, you’ll live in cabins with 6-12 campers and co-counselors, sharing meals, activities, and the rhythms of camp life. Days are filled with outdoor adventures like hiking, swimming, and ropes courses, as well as quieter moments for reflection and bonding. You’ll take on the rewarding responsibility of mentoring and supervising a group of campers while working closely with co-counselors to ensure campers are safe, engaged, and thriving.

What You’ll Do:

• Lead & Mentor: Provide 24/7 supervision, leadership, and mentorship for a group of 6-12 campers, fostering their growth and development.
• Plan & Participate: Organize and engage in a variety of activities, including sports, swimming, arts & crafts, archery, model farming, and camp-wide events.
• Ensure Safety: Take responsibility for the physical and emotional well-being of all campers, addressing challenges with empathy and skill.
• Collaborate: Work closely with co-counselors and Program Specialists to deliver an enriching camp experience.
• Model Excellence: Lead by example, promoting teamwork, respect, and resilience.
• Track Progress: Write daily reports and final evaluations to document each camper’s journey.
• Immerse in Camp Life: Fully embrace the unique environment of overnight camp, including communal living, shared meals, and spirited activities.

What We’re Looking For:

• At least 18 years old by the start of camp (June 27, 2025).
• A high school diploma is required; some college experience is preferred.
• Commitment to work and live onsite at camp for the entire summer season (June 16, 2025 – August 16, 2025).
• A passion for working with children and at least one year of experience in a similar role.

Ready to Join Us?
Apply now to become a Camp Counselor and help us create magical summer moments. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and interviews are held virtually by our Camp Directors.

Diversity & Inclusion Statement
The Fresh Air Fund is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer committed to inclusive hiring and fostering a diverse staff. We strongly encourage candidates of all identities, experiences, orientations, and communities to apply.