Summer Camp Cabin Leader - YMCA Camp Potawotami

Imagine going to work knowing that what you do each day positively affects the lives of the people in your community. While working at YMCA Camp Potawotami, you’ll discover more than a job—you’ll enjoy making genuine connections and unforgettable experiences in the lives of those around you. YMCA Camp Potawotami has provided friendship, fun, and a character-building camping experience in a beautiful, safe environment for over 100 years. Located about 40 miles north of Fort Wayne on the shores of Blackman Lake, Camp Potawotami has over 210 acres of woodlands, meadows, wetlands, and hiking trails. Camp is looking for mature, fun, and creative Cabin Leaders for the 2026Summer Season. Cabin Leaders work with campers to increase their sense of accomplishment and belonging while they learn about positive character traits and values. Must be at least 18 years of age. Must be comfortable communicating with parents and enjoy working with children. Staff in this role will: Facilitate excellent camp programs, lead campers and fellow staff, keep camp safe, and make camp memorable for all participants. If you’re looking for a purpose, you don’t have to look any further. 

Why you’ll love YMCA Camp Potawotami

• Personal Development: You’ll have many opportunities for free training and certifications, as well as opportunities to advance and potentially find a long-term career. 
• Housing & Meals: Summer Camp Cabin Leaders are required to live on-site, and food is provided. 
• Fulfillment: Experience a flexible schedule while working for a company that cares about you and is actively involved in our community! 
• YMCA Membership: As a part-time staff member, you will receive a free individual membership, or 65% off family membership, 50% discounted programs at Y branches for you and your household, and a 40% discount for you and your family at camp.

Responsibilities 

• Lead: Live with fellow staff members and live with 10-12 campers of a similar program age for week-long overnight experiences for campers ages 6-16. You will be a friendly, caring leader and role model at camp. You will maintain the camp’s safety and procedures while embracing the ‘controlled chaos’ whenever possible.
• Collaborate: The voice of everyone at camp matters. You will work with diverse staff and campers to create an inclusive, engaging experience.
• Create: Create fun, unique experiences for our campers. You will be encouraged to create and implement new activities and/or programs with the assistance of the Program Director.
• Hospitality: With a “Camper First” philosophy, you will create a welcoming, supportive environment for all campers. You will learn to create ‘magic’ and a sense of belonging in everything you do.
• Support: Supporting campers and staff alike to create an equitable experience. Camp is for all, and some folks need extra support to get the most out of camp. 
• Activities: Cabin Leaders also receive training for and teach activities at camp. Activities include but are not limited to canoeing, teambuilding, rock climbing & high ropes, arts & crafts, survival skills, archery, sports, swimming, photography, mountain biking, BBs, and games. 

Requirements 

Candidates must be committed to contributing to the mission, culture, and values of YMCA Camp Potawotami and the YMCA of Greater Fort Wayne as well as…

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Knowledge about the outdoor environment with the ability to plan and organize activities that show spontaneity, creativity, and flexibility. 
• Willing and able to receive training to provide a safe and fulfilling summer camp experience
• Must be comfortable communicating with parents and enjoy working with children.
• At least one year of working with children and/or youth is preferred.
• Experience in education, youth work, or recreation and certifications in First Aid, CPR, and lifeguarding are a plus.
• Promote and incorporate the YMCA's core values and mission into all aspects of the job and community.
• Team player who can fulfill all demands in spirit, mind, and body as an instructor.
• Positive, service-oriented attitude serving diverse groups of campers in regard to age, ethnicity, gender, race, economic status, religion, etc.

Commitment Details

• Commitment: May 23, 2026- August 7, 2026
• Starting at $72/per day (Sunday11:00am- Friday 8:00pm weekly sessions) 
• Room & Board Provided

 Location:  YMCA Camp Potawotami is located on beautiful Blackman Lake in Northeast Indiana; 7255 East 700 South, Wolcottville, IN 46795