What are the responsibilities and job description for the Recreation Camp Counselor position at Whatcom Family YMCA?
Join us for a summer of hands-on learning, play, and discovery at various running Camps. Running Camp counselors lead elementary and middle school youth through the trails and parks of Whatcom county. This unique opportunity involves helping run our Girls on the Run Summer camps and our Trail Blazers Camps.
As a Camp Counselor, you’ll help create a safe, inclusive, and high-energy camp environment where kids can try new things, make friends, and build confidence. From outdoor adventures and group games to creative projects and team challenges, every day at camp is an opportunity to make a positive impact.
This seasonal role is a wonderful way to gain experience in supporting our exciting and dynamic running camps and help develop new lifelong appreciation for running.
What You’ll Do
As a Camp Counselor, you’ll help bring the magic of summer camp to life. You’ll:
• Lead fun and engaging activities like outdoor games, crafts, team challenges, and creative projects
• Supervise campers and help ensure a safe, supportive camp environment
• Encourage teamwork, kindness, and confidence among campers
• Help plan and facilitate developmentally appropriate activities for different age groups
• Support all-camp events, games, and special activities
• Help maintain safe and organized camp spaces and equipment
• Model YMCA core values: Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility
• Work with your team to create a positive and welcoming camp community
Your days will be filled with laughter, problem-solving, cheering on campers, and helping kids have the best summer ever.
Who You Are
You’re someone who:
• Loves working with kids and believes in the power of positive youth experiences
• Brings energy, creativity, and a great attitude to every day
• Enjoys being active, outdoors, and part of a team
• Is patient, flexible, and supportive in busy camp environments
• Communicates well with campers, staff, and families
• Values inclusion and works to make sure every camper feels they belong
Experience that helps you succeed in this role:
• Experience working with youth in camps, sports, recreation, or child care
• Interest in outdoor activities, games, sports, or creative programming
• Passion for helping kids grow, learn, and build confidence
If you’ve coached youth sports, volunteered with kids, or worked in recreation programs before — that’s a great fit!
Why the Y?
At the Whatcom Family YMCA, we strengthen our community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Our camps give kids a safe place to explore, grow, and create lifelong memories.
When you join our team, you’ll:
• Gain leadership and youth development experience
• Make a meaningful impact on kids and families
• Work with a supportive, mission-driven team
• Spend your summer being active, creative, and outdoors
• Help create unforgettable summer memories for campers
Ready to Make This the Best Summer Ever?
If you’re excited to lead games, inspire kids, support your team, and create meaningful summer experiences — we’d love to meet you.
Apply today and help make summer unforgettable at the Whatcom Family YMCA.
Qualifications:
What You’ll Need
• Experience working with youth (camp, sports, recreation, child care, or similar programs)
• Must be 18 years or older
• CPR/First Aid/AED certification (or ability to obtain before camp begins)
• Ability to lead developmentally appropriate activities
• Strong teamwork and communication skills
• Commitment to YMCA values and child safety practices
Bonus Points If You Have:
• Experience with running, outdoor recreation, or youth coaching
• Knowledge of local parks and outdoor spaces in Whatcom or Skagit counties
• Bilingual or multilingual communication skills
Salary : $20 - $22