Weekend Respite Care Counselor (Variable Schedule)

The Indian Trails Camp Inc; Grand Rapids (MI); On-site; USD 6,000 - 7,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Free housing

Meals provided

Free parking

Job summary

IKUS Life Enrichment Services in Grand Rapids, MI, is seeking Respite Camp Counselors for weekend and one-day camps in 2026-2027. You will supervise campers, lead activities, and ensure safety in a dynamic outdoor setting.

This role offers flexible weekend scheduling, living quarters in cabins, meals, and free parking. Ideal candidates are 18+, with a high school diploma, physical stamina, and a passion for supporting individuals with disabilities.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years old and a high school graduate.
• Ability to lift 50+ lbs and provide physical assistance to campers.
• Clear background check (local, state, and federal).
• Must complete all required paperwork and staff training.
• Strong communication skills with campers, coworkers, and families.
• Passion for working with individuals with physical, cognitive, and/or developmental disabilities.

Responsibilities

• Assist campers during activities and adapt to meet diverse needs.
• Provide emotional support, companionship, encouragement, and fun to campers.
• Supervise campers at all times with safety as top priority.
• Collaborate with Health Office Staff to understand each camper's needs.
• Participate in camper check-in/out, transitions, and end-of-weekend cleaning.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Patience and empathy

Ability to lift 50+ lbs

Flexible and adaptable

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Grand Rapids, MI, US

Make an Impact. Have Fun. Change Lives.
Flexible weekends. Unforgettable experiences.

We're on the lookout for enthusiastic, responsible, and compassionate individuals to join our team of Respite Camp Counselors for our Weekend Respite Camps (Friday-Sunday) and One-Day Camps (Specific Saturdays only) throughout 2026-2027. Pick the weekends that work for YOU-we'll schedule around your availability!

Ready for a weekend that changes lives—including your own?

Spend your weekends immersed in 30 acres of beautiful forest, surrounded by laughter, adventure, and community. As a Respite Camp Counselor, you'll help create unforgettable experiences for campers with physical, cognitive, and/or developmental disabilities - while forming meaningful friendships, gaining valuable skills, and making a difference that lasts a lifetime.

What's in It for You?

• Flexible Scheduling: Sign up only for the weekends that fit your calendar
• Pay:
  Weekend Camps (Fri-Sun): $275 total + free room and board
  One-Day Camps (Saturdays): $13.73/hour for 8 hours
• All-Inclusive Perks:
  Meals during camp included
  On-site lodging in cabins
  Free parking
• Unforgettable Environment: Enjoy nature, fresh air, and time away from your daily routine.
• Purpose-Driven Work: Help campers live life to the fullest in a safe, inclusive space.
• Professional Growth: Hands-on experience in caregiving, education, special needs support, behavior management, emergency response, teamwork, and leadership.

What We Expect of You

• Assist campers during activities such as:
  • Arts & crafts
  • Swimming
  • Boating
  • Ropes course
  • Campfires
  • Meal times and more
• Encourage participation by adapting activities to meet a wide range of physical, emotional, and cognitive needs
• Be a role model : Offer emotional support, companionship, encouragement, and fun!
• Provide physical assistance as needed, including:
  • Feeding
  • Dressing
  • Toileting
  • Showering
• Supervise campers at all times with safety as your top priority
• Support campers in emergency situations (illness, injury, evacuation, etc.)
• Work as a team to maintain a clean and organized cabin and shared camp spaces
• Participate in camper check-in/out, transitions, and end-of-weekend cleaning
• Follow all policies and procedures, including HIPAA confidentiality and licensing standards
• Collaborate with Health Office Staff to ensure you understand each camper's unique needs, including:
  • Medical conditions
  • Dietary restrictions
  • Safety protocols
  • Behavioral support plans
• Take on other responsibilities as assigned by Camp Director or Lead Counselors

What Do You Need to Qualify?

• Must be at least 18 years old and a high school graduate (or equivalent)
• Ability to lift 50+ lbs and provide physical assistance to campers
• Clear background check (local, state, and federal)
• Must complete all required paperwork and staff training
• Strong communication skills with campers, coworkers, and families
• Passion for working with individuals with physical, cognitive, and/or developmental disabilities
• Positive attitude, patience, empathy, and the ability to be flexible and adapt
• Ability to respond appropriately in emergencies
• Understand and maintain HIPAA confidentiality
• No alcohol or drug use while on camp property or working a shift
• Must be able to work outdoors and indoors in all weather conditions for extended periods

Position Information:

• Arrive Friday at 3:00 PM
• Depart Sunday at 12:00 PM
• One-Day Schedule (optional):
  • Saturdays, 8 hours total
• Pay: $275 per weekend
  Included:
  * Living quarters - in cabin with campers.
  * All meals during camp weekends.
  * Free parking
• Reports to: Camp Director

IKUS Life Enrichment Services
ikuslife.org
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).