Counselor - In Training

Counselor in Training (CIT)

Change life and help children and adults with disabilities build independence and self‑esteem. True Friends is seeking teenagers ages 16‑17 to join our summer program. Trade classrooms for campfires and make a real difference in an electrifying community of campers of all ability levels.

Seasonal, 6‑week contract beginning in June 2026.

Camp Friendship, Annandale, MN.

$302–$347 per week based on tenure with True Friends, with the opportunity for an end‑of‑summer bonus.

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

• 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!

• Be a caregiver for camper’s social, emotional and physical needs.
• Lead fun, friends and adventure.
• Manifest 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 they don’t get anywhere else.
• Set clear expectations, ensure basic needs are being met, build rapport, and create opportunities for fun and learning.
• Be in a supported role with a CIT supervisor and additional camp leadership.
• Participate in the CIT community.

• Age 16–17 by June 9, 2025.
• Willing to step outside your comfort zone.
• Experienced 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 a requirement.
• Able to be flexible and adapt to an ever‑changing environment.
• CPR/First Aid certified, Lifeguard certified, camping experience, are highly valued but NOT required.
• Able to hear, read, and write in English.

True Friends’ programs include camp, respite, therapeutic horseback riding, conference and retreat, 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.