Day Camp Counselor

Valley Shore YMCA • Westbrook, CT

1d • $18 • Onsite

About The Position

The Valley Shore YMCA is seeking a friendly, reliable, and service-oriented Camp Counselor to join our summer team. This position is responsible for directly supervising a group of children, fostering a safe, supportive, and engaging environment where campers can build friendships, grow, and enjoy experiences that make them excited to return year after year. You’ll be a positive role model who ensures campers feel supported, program activities run smoothly, and the overall experience reflects the YMCA’s values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. Join the Valley Shore YMCA as a Camp Counselor and become part of a mission-driven team dedicated to strengthening community and supporting youth development. In this role, you will create a safe, engaging, and positive camp environment by supervising children, leading activities, and fostering meaningful connections. This position is ideal for individuals who are energetic, responsible, and passionate about working with children in a collaborative, team-oriented setting, including availability for seasonal daytime hours. Enjoy free Valley Shore YMCA membership, and training opportunities while making a difference in your community.

Requirements

• High school student, graduate, or equivalent; one or more years of college preferred.
• Previous experience working with children, ideally in a day camp setting.
• Must obtain CPR, First Aid, AED certifications, and Child Abuse Prevention training within 30 days of hire.
• Strong ability to relate to and engage with people from diverse social and economic backgrounds.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in one or more of the following areas is a plus: outdoor living, archery, boating, camping, songs/music, skits, sports, aquatics, or recreational games.
• Experience working with diverse populations is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and engage a group of children, ensuring their safety and well-being.
• Plan and implement program activities that are developmentally appropriate, culturally relevant, and aligned with YMCA values.
• Maintain program standards, including safety, cleanliness, and overall quality.
• Attend required staff meetings, trainings, and professional development sessions.
• Follow YMCA policies and procedures, including those related to medical and disciplinary situations, child abuse prevention, and emergency response.
• Build positive relationships and communicate effectively with children, parents, and fellow staff, modeling strong relationship-building skills.
• Support the growth and potential of all youth, fostering peer-to-peer connections and enriching the overall camp experience.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support program success.

Benefits

• Free Valley Shore YMCA Membership (includes access to all fitness facilities).
• Discounted family memberships and certain program fees (childcare, swim lessons, camps, etc.).
• Eligible for tuition discounts at selected colleges.
• Flexible scheduling to fit school, family, or other work commitments.
• Paid training and CPR/AED certification assistance.
• Opportunities for advancement into Wellness, Aquatics, or Youth Program departments.
• Supportive, community-oriented work environment that values wellness and personal growth.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED