Horse Camp Counselor
About The Position
YMCA Camp Manitou-Lin, with over 100 years of camping experience, is seeking a Horse Camp Counselor for Summer 2026. Located on Barlow Lake in Middleville, Michigan, the camp offers a beautiful natural setting and focuses on providing a rich camp experience centered on core values with a Christian emphasis, aiming to help participants gain 21st-century skills, independence, and lifelong memories. The Horse Camp Counselor will provide direct supervision of up to 10 children in grades K-8th in a summer camp outdoor setting. Responsibilities include leading activities focused on values and 21st-century life skills, instructing or assisting with riding lessons, teaching barn lessons, and leading trail rides. The position requires the counselor to be at least 18 years of age.
Requirements
- At least 18 years of age and a high school graduate or equivalent
- Previous experiences in camp, youth programs, recreation, working with children, or in a related field
- Demonstrated horseback riding experience is required
- Organizational skills to plan, schedule, and facilitate programs
- Ability to give supervision and guidance to staff
- Ability to plan, lead and/or assist in teaching an activity
- Ability to teach leadership skills
- Ability to teach and role model the Core Values of the YMCA and use of 21st century life skills
- Cardio Pulmonary Recitation (CPR) for rescue required
- First Aid certification required
- Blood borne pathogens training required upon hire
- State of Michigan criminal background clearance (ICHAT)
Responsibilities
- Learn the likes/dislikes of each participant
- Be a positive role model for all campers and fellow staff
- Assist in getting horses ready in the morning and turning them out at night
- Assist in general care of horses including but not limited to watering, feeding, medicating, etc.
- Help maintain a safe riding program by monitoring trail rides, riding lessons and campers closely for dangerous situations
- Instruct and or assist during riding lessons based on experience
- Provide opportunities for the group so that each individual experiences success during camp
- Guide cabin or trail groups in participating successfully in all aspects of camp activities
- Supervise all assigned aspects of the campers’ day, including morning reveille, cabin clean-up, activities, meal times, rest hour, evening activities, getting ready for bed, and after-hours duties as assigned
- Help campers plan their participation in unit-wide or camp-wide programs, special events, and activities
- Performs any other functions necessary for the smooth and efficient operation of the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids
Benefits
- Housing is provided for overnight counselors
- Meals are provided Sunday - Friday
- Staff are allowed to remain on site during the weekends throughout their seasonal employment if they choose
- Scheduled time off will be granted each day
- Free YMCA Individual Membership
- 12% employer retirement contribution, no match requirement (upon eligibility)
- 403(b) savings plan
- Paid Sick Time
- Access to ongoing training, development programs, and career advancement opportunities
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
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What This Job Offers
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
