Weekend Respite Care Counselor (Variable Schedule)

The Indian Trails Camp Inc • Grand Rapids, MI

4d • Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking enthusiastic, responsible, and compassionate individuals to join our team as Respite Camp Counselors for Weekend Respite Camps (Friday–Sunday) and One-Day Camps (Specific Saturdays only) throughout 2026-2027. This role offers flexible scheduling, allowing counselors to pick the weekends that work best for them. Counselors will spend their weekends creating unforgettable experiences for campers with physical, cognitive, and/or developmental disabilities in a beautiful forest setting, while also forming meaningful friendships, gaining valuable skills, and making a significant difference.

Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years old and a high school graduate (or equivalent).
• Ability to lift 50+ lbs and provide physical assistance to campers.
• Clear background check (local, state, and federal).
• Must complete all required paperwork and staff training.
• Strong communication skills with campers, coworkers, and families.
• Passion for working with individuals with physical, cognitive, and/or developmental disabilities.
• Positive attitude, patience, empathy, and the ability to be flexible and adapt.
• Ability to respond appropriately in emergencies.
• Understand and maintain HIPAA confidentiality.
• No alcohol or drug use while on camp property or working a shift.
• Must be able to work outdoors and indoors in all weather conditions for extended periods.

Responsibilities

• Assist campers during activities such as arts & crafts, swimming, boating, ropes course, campfires, and meal times.
• Encourage participation by adapting activities to meet a wide range of physical, emotional, and cognitive needs.
• Be a role model by offering emotional support, companionship, encouragement, and fun.
• Provide physical assistance as needed, including feeding, dressing, toileting, and showering.
• Supervise campers at all times with safety as the top priority.
• Support campers in emergency situations (illness, injury, evacuation, etc.).
• Work as a team to maintain a clean and organized cabin and shared camp spaces.
• Participate in camper check-in/out, transitions, and end-of-weekend cleaning.
• Follow all policies and procedures, including HIPAA confidentiality and licensing standards.
• Collaborate with Health Office Staff to understand each camper’s unique needs, including medical conditions, dietary restrictions, safety protocols, and behavioral support plans.
• Take on other responsibilities as assigned by Camp Director or Lead Counselors.

Benefits

• Flexible Scheduling: Sign up only for the weekends that fit your calendar
• Pay: Weekend Camps (Fri–Sun): $275 total + free room and board
• Pay: One-Day Camps (Saturdays): $13.73/hour for 8 hours
• Meals during camp included
• On-site lodging in cabins
• Free parking
• Enjoy nature, fresh air, and time away from your daily routine.
• Help campers live life to the fullest in a safe, inclusive space.
• Hands-on experience in caregiving, education, special needs support, behavior management, emergency response, teamwork, and leadership.

What This Job Offers

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