For over 125 years, YMCA Camp Abnaki has provided campers with a traditional camp program, with an emphasis on character and safety. Our program helps boys develop new friendships, build self-esteem, take a break from technology, and gain a sense of independence while away from home. Tradition meets innovation at Camp Abnaki, as activities like archery and canoeing take place alongside new favorites like the slingshot and ropes courses. Throughout the day, campers engage in all types of fun activities — while internalizing our YMCA core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility, and our camp motto “Help the Other Fellow.”
Please note: Our camp is located at 1252 Abnaki Road, North Hero, VT 05474, not in Burlington, VT.
Ready to lead, mentor, and create unforgettable camp magic? YMCA Camp Abnaki is looking for Village Leaders to keep the fun rolling and the cabins running smoothly as part of our Camp Leadership Staff. You’ll support counselors, plan epic activities, and make sure campers are having the summer of their lives—all while living on the shores of Lake Champlain. If you can handle campfire singalongs, capture-the-flag showdowns, and the occasional “I lost my shoe in the woods” crisis, this is the leadership role for you!
The contract for this position is from June 5 through August 16. Possibilities of pre-season and post-season work are also available.
Salary Description:
- $675-$725 / week
Why You'll Love This Job:
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Be a Leader: Guide and support an amazing team of counselors while shaping a fun and engaging camp environment.
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Create Unforgettable Experiences: Plan and oversee games, archery, arts & crafts, and more, ensuring every camper has an incredible time.
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Live and Work in a Beautiful Setting: Spend your summer outdoors on the shores of Lake Champlain, with housing and meals included in compensation, so you can focus on creating lasting memories for campers.
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Make a Lasting Impact: Build relationships with campers and their families, helping kids grow in confidence, skills, and friendships
What We’re Looking For:
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At least 20 years old with one year of college or work experience beyond high school.
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Experience working with kids and a strong understanding of child development.
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Great leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
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A patient, fun-loving, and energetic personality.
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Strong organizational skills for schedules, attendance, and camper reports.
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Ability to lead small group activities and skill-based programs.
Work Environment & Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those necessary for the role and are essential to ensuring the safety and well-being of children in our care. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.
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Be ready to walk, stand, and move around camp (uneven terrain included!).
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Have strong visual and auditory awareness to ensure camper safety.
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Ability to lift up to 40 pounds and stay active throughout the day.
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Quick decision-making and responsiveness to emergency situations.
What You'll Do:
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Lead & Support: Supervise counselors and campers, ensuring a fun, safe, and inclusive environment.
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Plan Epic Activities: Organize village times, cabin activities, and special events that campers will talk about all year.
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Build Connections: Act as a mentor and role model for both campers and staff, fostering a strong sense of community.
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Communicate with Parents: Provide updates on camper experiences, behavior, and any concerns, in partnership with camp leadership.
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Keep Camp Running Smoothly: Manage cabin assignments, schedules, and village logistics.
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Maintain Camp Spaces: Ensure cabins, washhouses, and shared areas are clean and well-kept.
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Stay Engaged & Alert: Actively monitor campers and staff throughout the day, including during Free Time, Village Time, meals, and evening programs to ensure proper supervision.