Summer Camp Counselor, Fresh Air Camps (residential camp)

Fresh Air Camps is a renowned organization with a rich history dating back to 1877, dedicated to providing transformative summer experiences for children from New York City's underserved communities. Situated in the scenic Hudson Valley, Fresh Air Camps operates six distinct overnight summer camps, each offering unique programming that caters to a variety of age groups and interests. These programs range from outdoor adventures like hiking and swimming to arts and sciences, designed to foster personal growth, creativity, and leadership skills among campers. With over 1.8 million children having participated in its programs, Fresh Air Camps continues to be a beacon of opportunity, exploration, and development in a nurturing natural environment.

The Summer Camp Counselor role at Fresh Air Camps is a full-time, immersive position lasting from June 20 to August 15, 2026. Counselors live onsite in shared housing and are provided with meals throughout the summer, making this a unique opportunity to engage fully in camp life. The compensation for this role is $2,500 for the summer period. This position offers hands-on leadership experience in a dynamic and supportive setting, enabling counselors to develop skills in communication, teamwork, mentoring, and safety management. The counselor role is vital to the camp's success, as counselors are responsible for the supervision and mentorship of small groups of campers, ensuring their physical and emotional well-being in a vibrant outdoor setting.

Camp Counselors at Fresh Air Camps live in cabins with groups of 6-12 campers and co-counselors, sharing meals, activities, and the rhythms of daily camp life. Each day is packed with enriching activities such as hiking, swimming, ropes courses, archery, arts and crafts, and community-wide events. Counselors play a critical role in facilitating these activities while fostering a safe, inclusive, and encouraging environment. They report to their Village Leader and collaborate closely with other staff members and Program Specialists to deliver an enriching experience for all participants. The role goes beyond activity supervision, encompassing mentorship that promotes teamwork, respect, and resilience among campers. Counselors also document the progress of campers through daily reports and final evaluations, contributing to a tailored and reflective camp experience.

Working as a Summer Camp Counselor at Fresh Air Camps is more than a job; it is a chance to join a longstanding tradition of empowering young people through nature and community. The experience offers significant opportunities for personal and professional growth, with the development of leadership and interpersonal skills that are valuable in numerous career paths. Seasonal staff members become part of a vibrant community, embracing camp life fully and leaving a lasting impact on the children they serve. This role is ideal for those passionate about working with youth, eager to embrace challenges, and driven to create meaningful summer moments. Fresh Air Camps is committed to cultivating an inclusive environment and strongly encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply.