Counselor-in-Training

Counselor in Training (CIT)

Join in our mission of providing life-changing experiences that enhance independence and self-esteem for children and adults with disabilities. True Friends is looking for all-star teenagers ages 16-17 to provide our campers with positive life-changing experiences this summer. Trade classrooms for campfires as you make life-long friends while making a real difference in an electrifying community of campers of all ability levels.

Schedule: Seasonal, 6-week contract starting in June 2026

Location: Camp Friendship in Annandale, MN

Pay: $302-347 per week based on tenure with True Friends, with an opportunity for end-of-summer bonus

Bonus Information:

• 6-7 weeks worked — additional $60 per week
• 8-9 weeks worked — additional $70 per week
• 10-11 weeks worked — additional $80 per week
• 12-14 weeks worked — additional $90 per week
• Requirements:
  Resident or citizen of the USA, in good standing with the organization and a live-in summer camp staff member (excludes support staff)

True Friends Benefits
:

• Training provided
• Meals and housing provided
• Gain relevant experience for your career
• Build your portfolio with diverse work examples
• Work and live surrounded by nature
• And more!

How You’ll Contribute:

• Be a caregiver for campers’ social, emotional and physical needs
• Be a leader of fun, friends and adventure
• Foster a loving and inclusive environment
• Gain invaluable professional hard and soft skills
• Provide opportunities for kids and adults with disabilities to reach outside of their comfort zones and experience adventure and skill building
• Set clear expectations, ensure basic needs are met, build rapport, and create opportunities for fun and learning
• Be in a supported role with a CIT supervisor and additional camp leadership

What You’ll Bring to the Table:

• Ages 16-17 by June 9
• Willing to step outside your comfort zone
• Experience interacting with individuals with disabilities
• Passionate about making a difference in the world
• Able to support others with daily living skills
• Happy to live and work in a communal setting
• Eager to take initiative and have a strong work ethic
• Priority given to past volunteers, but not required
• Able to be flexible and adapt to an ever-changing environment
• CPR/First Aid certified, Lifeguard certified, camping experience are valued but not required
• Able to hear, read, and write in English

About Us: True Friends’ programs include camp, respite, therapeutic horseback riding, conferences and retreats, travel, and team building, serving over 25,000 individuals annually. With locations near Maple Lake, Annandale, Eden Prairie and Bemidji, MN, True Friends serves individuals in Minnesota and throughout the United States.

Referrals do not affect your ability to interview at True Friends. Apply BELOW