Camp Counselor - Seasonal

Jobs That Help - $125

PROJECT KINDRED MISSION & VISION

Project Kindred’s mission is to disrupt the cycle of segregation by uniting and empowering young people of all backgrounds through transformative experiences. We envision a just, equitable, and inclusive Milwaukee led by diverse community builders.

ABOUT PROJECT KINDRED

Project Kindred is a year-round community dedicated to breaking down the barriers of segregation that have long shaped Milwaukee’s history. We unite people from all backgrounds, fostering friendships that cross socioeconomic divides and empowering them to lead our city toward justice, equity, and love. We know that children who form friendships across economic divides are 20% more likely to escape poverty as adults (Bhatia), highlighting the powerful impact of connections.

At Project Kindred, we believe young people are natural community builders, but segregation limits their potential. By creating safe, inclusive spaces where meaningful relationships can flourish and real-world learning can happen, we help young people develop the skills, values, and confidence they need to become the next generation of leaders. Our long-term, immersive, and fun-filled experiences bring youth together to navigate challenges, take positive risks, and discover common ground. Our programs nurture positive peer relationships while teaching participants how to build and lead diverse, equitable, and compassionate communities, shaping a better future for all.

MISSION OF THE CAMP COUNSELOR ROLE

As a Camp Counselor, you will play a pivotal role in creating meaningful, lasting relationships between young people from diverse backgrounds across Milwaukee. You will help facilitate camp activities, foster inclusive environments, and ensure the physical and emotional safety of campers. Through a variety of training and programming, you will build the skills necessary to create transformative experiences that align with Project Kindred's mission and values.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

The following list outlines core responsibilities but is not exhaustive. The Camp Counselor will be expected to adapt and take on additional duties as needed.

Participant Engagement & Leadership

• Create and maintain a positive, inclusive, and supportive environment.
• Facilitate camp activities and games that align with Project Kindred’s values.
• Actively lead and participate in all camp activities, including team-building exercises and educational programs.
• Build authentic relationships with campers, encouraging them to grow socially, emotionally, and mentally.

Safety & Well-being

• Ensure the safety and well-being of all campers by enforcing camp rules and addressing any behavioral issues that arise.
• Monitor campers’ emotional, social, and physical states throughout the day and night to ensure their comfort and safety.
• Adhere to all emergency protocols and risk management plans.

Teamwork & Collaboration

• Collaborate with other counselors and staff to deliver seamless programming and create a cohesive camp environment.
• Participate in staff team-building activities and ongoing professional development to enhance program delivery and team dynamics.

Program Planning & Execution

• Assist in the planning and execution of mission-aligned camp events.
• Refine camp programs and adjust them as needed to meet camper needs.

Training & Professional Development

• Participate in pre-session training and any additional opportunities offered.
• Complete all required certification training.

WHAT YOU’LL DO

As a Camp Counselor, you will:

Facilitate Transformative Camp Experiences

• Lead and participate in a variety of activities that encourage campers to build authentic relationships and develop leadership skills.
• Facilitate inclusive, engaging, and fun activities that align with Project Kindred’s mission and core values.
• Ensure that all campers feel welcomed and supported, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

Maintain Camper Well-Being & Safety

• Supervise campers throughout the day and night, ensuring their physical, emotional, and social well-being.
• Address behavioral challenges with compassion and professionalism, implementing camp rules to ensure a safe and supportive environment.
• Follow all protocols and be prepared to act quickly in case of an incident.

Collaborate with Staff & Leadership

• Work closely with fellow counselors, program managers, and camp leadership to ensure smooth camp operations.
• Attend pre-camp and ongoing staff training, staying updated on best practices for youth engagement, safety protocols, and cultural responsiveness.
• Provide feedback and suggestions to enhance the camper experience and improve programming.

Promote Inclusivity & Equity

• Lead by example in promoting inclusion, equity, and diversity in all activities.
• Ensure that all activities and interactions are accessible and respectful to campers from diverse backgrounds.
• Help campers understand and embrace Project Kindred’s values of kindness, courage, and community.

Support Camper Growth

• Encourage campers to step out of their comfort zones, try new activities, and build confidence in themselves.
• Facilitate reflective conversations with campers to help them process their experiences and learn from their interactions with others.
• Promote leadership development and teamwork through challenges, group activities, and camp discussions.

Contribute to Program Success

• Evaluate camper progress and provide feedback to improve sessions.
• Collaborate with staff to adjust activities based on needs and feedback.
• Maintain a positive and enthusiastic attitude throughout the entire camp session, inspiring both campers and fellow staff.

Ensure Clear Communication

• Communicate effectively to ensure everyone is informed and engaged.
• Maintain transparency and clarity in all interactions, addressing any concerns.
• Report any incidents or safety concerns promptly to camp leadership.

WHAT VOYAGER COUNSELORS WILL DO

As a Voyager Counselor, you will have the additional responsibility of working with campers in 9th-10th grade. The focus will be on leadership and teamwork through outdoor experiences and more challenging activities designed to foster independence, courage, and personal growth.

Lead Outdoor and Team-Building Experiences

• Guide Voyagers through more advanced activities, including tent camping, outdoor survival skills, and leadership challenges that promote independence.
• Create opportunities for Voyagers to work together as a team, emphasizing collaboration, problem-solving, and resilience.

Focus on Courage and Leadership Development

• Help Voyagers explore what courage means to them and how they can take brave, meaningful actions within the camp and greater community.
• Encourage Voyagers to take on leadership roles, helping them develop confidence in their abilities to lead others with courage.

Foster Positive Risk-Taking and Growth

• Challenge Voyagers to step outside their comfort zones in a safe and supportive environment through team-building exercises.
• Facilitate group discussions and reflection sessions that allow Voyagers to process their experiences and think critically about their contributions.

Support Voyager-Specific Overnight Experiences

• Guide Voyagers through their unique overnight experiences, such as tent camping, and ensure their safety and comfort during these sessions.
• Promote a sense of adventure and independence during overnight stays, while ensuring campers feel supported and cared for.

PLEASE CONSIDER TO HELP IN YOUR DECISION MAKING

• You will be interacting with and supervising young people all day, except during designated time off.
• You will sleep in a cabin bunk bed or a tent during training and camp.
• Cell reception and Wi-Fi are limited, with phone use restricted to your time off.
• Expect 2-3 hours of time off per day.
• Meals are family-style in a dining hall or camp meals prepared on a camp stove.
• You will participate in physically demanding activities, such as hiking, games, and team-building exercises.
• You will be outdoors for extended periods in various weather conditions (rain, heat, cold, etc.).
• You will live in close quarters with campers and staff, requiring adaptability and respect for communal living.
• Managing the emotional and behavioral needs of campers can be challenging and will require patience and emotional resilience.

DATES

🗓️Tuesday, April 22, 2024: PK Spring Weekend Training @ MYAC 5-8pCT

🗓️April 26-27, 2025: Spring Weekend @ Turning Rivers

🗓️June 18-21, 2025: Staff Training @ Various Milwaukee Locations & CWES

🗓️June 22-June 27, 2025: Summer Session I @ CWES

🗓️June 29-July 4, 2025: Summer Session II @ CWES

COMPENSATION

Overnight Retreats & Training

• $300 (Retreat) + $45 (Training at $15/hr) + sleeping accommodations and meals

Camp Sessions

• $600 per week long camp session + room & board

Summer Training Trip

• $480 + room & board

Training Hours & Day Events

• $15/hour

See full position description here: https://tinyurl.com/PKCampCounselorJob

THE HIRING PROCESS

At each stage, we will assess the applicant pool and inform you whether or not you are moving forward to the next round.

1. Apply Online: Complete the application. Set aside 30-40 minutes to complete the application in one sitting, as work is not saved. Be ready to upload your resume before starting.
2. Complete Application: Submit your online application with all required information. Ensure your resume is included.
3. Interview with Leadership Team (60 minutes): Participate in an interview with two members of our leadership team, scheduled virtually.
4. Experiential Interview (30 minutes): Designed to assess the skills and mindsets we seek in our candidates, facilitate a brief 12 minute activity for a small group.
5. Reference Checks: The Hiring Committee will perform reference checks.
6. Conditional Offer: The Hiring Manager extends a contingent offer, pending the results of a background check.

OUR COMMITMENT TO EQUITY & JUSTICE IN OUR HIRING PROCESS

We are committed to racial equity, and we encourage people of color, indigenous people, gender-nonconforming people, people from poor and working-class backgrounds, women, and people with historically more marginalized identities to apply for open positions.

Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they meet every one of the qualifications as described in a job description. Please do not hesitate to apply if our mission aligns with yours and if this position interests you.

The purpose of our hiring process is to select the best possible candidate to fulfill the duties outlined above. Our Hiring Committee will assess qualifications based on an individual's skills and ability, rather than credentials, degrees, or access to social power and resources.