Summer Camp Counselor

Summer Camp Counselor – Multiple Locations & Programs 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 Camp Counselor, you’ll help create life-changing experiences for children and adults with disabilities. Whether you’re supporting campers in a cabin, leading an activity, helping someone build independence, or sharing your own talents, you’ll play an important role in creating a safe, inclusive, and unforgettable camp experience.

True Friends offers several Camp Counselor assignments across our three camp locations. Schedules, program lengths, responsibilities, and camper needs vary by assignment. During the application and selection process, we’ll learn more about your interests, experience, availability, and strengths to help determine which opportunity is the best fit.

You do not need experience in every area. We’ll provide training and support to help you succeed in your assignment.

• Camp Friendship | Annandale, MN
• Camp Courage | Maple Lake, MN

Camp Counselors may work at one, two, or all three of our camp locations during the summer, depending on program needs, assignment, and availability.

You don't have to live near a True Friends site to apply! Our Counselor positions are residential and include on-site housing and meals during employment, making this a great opportunity for individuals who live outside the immediate area, including those from other states!

• Cabin-Focused Assignments
  - Some Camp Counselors will typically work with the same cabin group throughout the week, going with them to activities and meals, and supporting them throughout their stay, including providing overnight as needed. Typical start dates are from early to mid-June.
• Activities-Focused Assignments
  - Some Camp Counselors may have an assignment focused primarily on leading and facilitating activities rather than working primarily with a specific cabin or camper group. Typical start dates are late-May.

Activities may include:

• High Ropes and challenge activities
• Arts and crafts
• Adaptive archery
• Sports and games
• Aquatics
• Other specialized or adaptive activities

Training may be provided based on the activity and assignment.

Your specific responsibilities will depend on your assignment and may include:

Create a safe, welcoming, inclusive, and supportive environment for campers

Build meaningful relationships and encourage participation and connection

Support campers' social, emotional, and physical needs

Encourage independence, confidence, teamwork, and personal growth

Lead or assist with camp activities and programs

Adapt activities and approaches to meet individual camper needs

Provide supervision and maintain awareness of camper safety

Support activities of daily living and personal care when required by the assignment

Work collaboratively with other counselors and camp staff

Participate in required staff training and program activities

• Make a difference: Help create meaningful experiences that build confidence, independence, and connection
• Build relationships: Form genuine connections with campers and fellow staff
• Try something new: Get outside your comfort zone and discover new skills and interests
• Bring your strengths: Whether you're an athlete, artist, outdoor enthusiast, caregiver, or just someone who loves helping others
• Be part of something bigger: Your work directly supports the True Friends mission and helps make camp possible

• Leadership experience: Build confidence leading activities, supporting individuals, and working as part of a team
• Real-world experience: Develop skills in communication, teamwork, problem-solving,…