Program Counselor

YMCA of Orange County•Wrightwood, CA

3d•$18 - $20•Onsite

About The Position

The YMCA of Orange County is a leading non-profit organization dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. We are actively seeking highly engaged, flexible, and service-oriented individuals for seasonal Program Counselor positions. In this position, you will be responsible for facilitating and supervising a fun and safe program environment. This role is a profound opportunity to directly impact the lives of the communities we serve by fostering genuine connections, practicing exceptional hospitality, and creating a safe, positive, and enriching environment where every interaction is meaningful. As a Program Counselor, you will be leading each group through activities, encouraging participation, and helping campers feel confident and engaged throughout each session. Location: YMCA Camp E.L.K. in Wrightwood, CA Work Schedule: Seasonal position. Looking for staff who are available to work June 14th through July 31st. Must be available full length of camp. Purpose and Impact: Inspire Camper Engagement: Design and lead activities that meet campers where they are—honoring their interests, abilities, and sense of adventure. Bring curriculum to life in ways that spark joy, confidence, and growth so each camper feels engaged, supported, and inspired throughout their time at camp. Cultivate a Safe & Supportive Environment: Ensure activity areas feel safe and welcoming by checking for hazards, setting boundaries, and following YMCA and ACA (American Camp Association) standards. Provide steady guidance and timely support when challenges arise so campers feel cared for and protected as they explore camp life. Model Leadership: Demonstrate honesty, respect, responsibility, and professionalism in all interactions. Uphold camp expectations through dependable teamwork, strong communication, and consistent support for campers and staff throughout each day. Strengthen Camp Community: Collaborate with fellow staff to make campfires, theme days, and all camp events fun and memorable. Keep program supplies organized, report concerns promptly, and step into additional tasks as needed to help the entire camp community thrive. Job Description will be provided during interview.

Requirements

Minimum Age: 18+ years
Experience working with youth preferred.
Excellent leadership and communication skills.
First Aid and CPR Certification (will be able to obtain during summer camp staff training).

Nice To Haves

Interest or experience in any of the following areas preferred: Music/Theater Outdoor Specialist Lifeguard Creative Expression Archery and Lifeguard Certification (will be able to obtain during summer camp staff training).

Responsibilities

Design and lead activities that meet campers where they are—honoring their interests, abilities, and sense of adventure.
Bring curriculum to life in ways that spark joy, confidence, and growth so each camper feels engaged, supported, and inspired throughout their time at camp.
Ensure activity areas feel safe and welcoming by checking for hazards, setting boundaries, and following YMCA and ACA (American Camp Association) standards.
Provide steady guidance and timely support when challenges arise so campers feel cared for and protected as they explore camp life.
Demonstrate honesty, respect, responsibility, and professionalism in all interactions.
Uphold camp expectations through dependable teamwork, strong communication, and consistent support for campers and staff throughout each day.
Collaborate with fellow staff to make campfires, theme days, and all camp events fun and memorable.
Keep program supplies organized, report concerns promptly, and step into additional tasks as needed to help the entire camp community thrive.