Summer Leadership Team Camp Counselors

Summer Leadership Team FAQ's

• Who can apply for the Summer Leadership Team?

  The Leadership Team experience is open to young adults who have recently graduated from high school or are currently attending college. This summer camp ministry is affiliated with the United Methodist Church, but being United Methodist is not a requirement. We expect that applicants have an active and growing relationship with Jesus Christ, a passion for working with children and youth in a Christian setting, and the ability to share their faith journey with campers in meaningful ways.

• What are the responsibilities of a Team member?

  The Leadership Team is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the summer camp program. Each team member serves as a camp counselor and is assigned weekly to one of the four age-specific camps:

  1. Elementary Camp: Care for children rising from 4th to 5th grade.
  2. Middle School Camp: Spend time encouraging youth rising from 6th to 8th grade.
  3. High School Camp: Guide older youth rising from 9th to 12th grade, including recently graduated seniors.
  4. Work Crew: Spend a week this summer serving alongside our kitchen staff to care for our campers in new and meaningful ways.

  Important Note: High school graduates are not assigned to work with the High School Camp. Counselor assignments are made weekly, with each regular camp session running from Monday afternoon to Saturday morning.

  This structure ensures a dynamic and supportive environment for both campers and counselors throughout the summer.

• As a Team member, one can expect to:

  • All team members are required to attend an 11-day mandatory staff orientation and training. Returning team members are required to participate and will need to arrive on an earlier date. Those pursuing certifications in lifeguarding or high ropes facilitation should plan to arrive earlier to complete the necessary training. All dates will be provided upon receiving your acceptance letter to join the summer team.

    Team members will take on various responsibilities, including:

    • Co-counseling cabins and supervising campers overnight.
    • Leading cabin devotions and co-teaching small group sessions.
    • Organizing and participating in large group games.
    • Co-leading craft and skill groups.
    • Supervising Recreation activities, like the pool and waterfront.
    • Serving on the Team Work Crew and Day Camp.
    • Leading and overseeing low ropes course experiences.

    Comprehensive training and orientation will be provided to ensure all team members are well-prepared for their roles.

• After going through the training, team members are expected to have the following qualities:
  • • Flexibility and a Servant’s Heart: Team members should embody a spirit of service and adaptability, always ready to meet the needs of campers and the team.
    • Awareness of Liability and Safety: A clear understanding of safety protocols and liability considerations is essential to ensure a secure environment for everyone.
    • Team Collaboration: The ability to work efficiently and harmoniously with other team members is vital for a successful summer.
    • Diligence in Responsibilities: Team members must demonstrate commitment and attentiveness in fulfilling their duties.
    • Faith Sharing: A willingness to share their faith journey with campers and fellow team members is a key part of creating a spiritually enriching environment.

    In addition to these qualities, select team members may be assigned to specialty camps and trip camps, such as Creative Spirit Camp, where campers explore activities like drama, dance, musical theater, visual arts, and worship band. These unique assignments allow team members to contribute their skills and creativity to specialized programming.

• What are the benefits of being a Team member?

  Team Member Benefits

  Joining our team comes with a variety of exciting benefits that make this an unforgettable experience:

  • Christian Leadership & Spiritual Growth: You’ll have opportunities to develop as a Christian leader while deepening your personal spiritual journey.
  • Global Connections: Serve alongside other young people from around the world, building lifelong friendships.

  Housing and Meals

  • Enjoy room and board throughout the summer, with meals provided by the camp.
  • Accommodations are in modern, air-conditioned buildings, ensuring your comfort during your stay.

  Compensation

  • Earn a salary of approximately $1,816, paid bi-weekly. An additional $200 is awarded for completing the full summer, bringing the total pay to $2,016. 
  • Returning team members receive an additional $400 for each summer served.

  Certifications and Bonuses

  • Obtain free Lifeguarding, Archery, or High Ropes Certification. A limited number of team members are selected each summer for training or re-certification during Training Week.
  • Certified team members receive a $100 bonus.

  Additional Perks

  • Weekly laundry service is provided.
  • Enjoy two weekend breaks during the summer, during which you may leave camp or welcome visitors. Specific guidelines for breaks and visits will be shared upon acceptance.

  Being a part of our team offers not just personal and professional growth, but also the opportunity to create lasting memories while serving others in a meaningful way. We look forward to having you on board!

• What is the application process?

  If you’re interested in joining the team, here’s what you need to know:

  1. Application Requirements:

     • Complete the application form.
     • Provide four references.
     • Ensure all reference forms are submitted by the deadline.

  2. Application Review & Interview Process:

     • Our team will carefully review all applications.
     • Only selected applicants will be invited to proceed with interviews.

  3. February Camp Preview Weekend:

     • For first-time applicants, attending the February Camp Preview Weekend is highly recommended.
     • This event, held at the Warren Willis United Methodist Camp & Conference Center, provides an opportunity to familiarize yourself with our summer camp ministry and facilities.
     • You’ll also be interviewed during the weekend. Dates for the event will be shared once you apply.
     • If you are out of state, you may request a Zoom interview as an alternative.

  4. Interview Details:

     • The interview will focus on your faith journey, relevant experience, and reasons for applying.

  5. Notification & Selection:

     • All applicants will be notified of their status via email during the second week of March.
     • Approximately 70 young people are selected for the Leadership Team each year.

  We’re excited about the possibility of you joining our team and making a meaningful impact this summer!