One of the most meaningful reasons young people choose to spend a summer working at camp is because it provides the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of children and teenagers. The experiences that campers have at camp can be life-changing, and as a staff member, you will be a key part of making that happen.
The sense of community and belonging that is cultivated at camp is something that is hard to find elsewhere. At camp, everyone can be their best self, and, as a result, friendships formed at camp are some of the most genuine and fulfilling.
Why Should You Work at Camp?
Here are just a few reasons why you should consider spending one (or more) summers working at an overnight camp:
1. You Can Make an Impact
Working at an overnight camp allows you to make a difference in the lives of young people. As a counselor or staff member, you will serve as a role model, teacher, and mentor to campers. You will help them to build self-confidence, develop new skills, and make lasting memories.
Seeing the positive impact that you have on campers is truly fulfilling and will make all of the hard work worth it.
2. You Can Develop Resume Building Skills
While many camp counselors end up pursuing careers in education, recreation, or youth development, the skills built at camp will boost your resume and help you gain valuable professional experience, which will translate well to any field. Here are just a few of the many areas in which you will grow through a job as a camp counselor:
- Problem-Solving: There are a variety of challenges that may arise at camp on a daily basis. Issues can range from simple to complex, but regardless of the problems faced, camp staff will learn to think on their toes and weigh out possible solutions before making decisions.
- Conflict Resolution: In the camp setting, where you are working alongside and living in close proximity to your peers, conflict is inevitable. As such, camp counselors must learn to handle conflict in such a way that there is no negative impact on the camper experience.
- Communication: Communication is a vital skill, no matter your career choice. Counselors must be in constant communication with their coworkers, campers, camp leadership, and parents.
Expectations for campers must be laid out early in order to set them up for success throughout their time at camp. If there are behavioral problems or homesickness among their group, counselors must partner with parents so that these issues do not escalate. - Teamwork: Camp staff work together as a team to create a fun, safe, and engaging environment for the campers. Whether you are leading activities, managing a group of children, or working with other staff members to plan and organize events, you will be partnering with your co-counselors to achieve a common goal.
3. You Can Save Money
When you take into account that camp jobs almost always include meals and lodging, working at camp can be a great way to save money. Even though other jobs, such as waiting tables or lifeguarding, may pay a higher hourly wage, you should consider the amount of money you will save by not having to buy groceries, go out to eat, or pay rent.
Additionally, many camps offer staff discounts on outdoor equipment and gear, which can help you save money on items that you may need for the summer or for future outdoor adventures.
4. You Will Experience Personal and Spiritual Growth
Being away from home and living in a community with people from all different places and backgrounds will challenge you and help you to develop independence, resilience, and self-reliance. You will also have the opportunity to learn new skills and try new things, such as canoeing, rock climbing, or archery.
When you work at a Christian camp, such as Camp Tekoa, you will also grow closer to God. As part of your job, you will lead devotions for your campers and have conversations with them about faith. Camp leaders will serve as role models and mentors for you as you do the same for campers.
5. You Will Make Friends and Have Fun
Working at an overnight camp is an amazing opportunity to meet new people and form lifelong friendships while spending your days outdoors amidst beautiful scenery and participating in exciting activities. At camp, you will get to be a part of a vibrant and dynamic community where everyone is working together to create an amazing experience for the campers.
Want to Learn More About Working at Camp Tekoa?
Overall, working at an overnight camp is a life-changing experience. Our mission at Camp Tekoa Inc. is "Touching Hearts, Changing Lives, and Sharing the Light of Christ." Through fun programming and outdoor ministry, our staff members are able to fulfill this mission.
As a staff member at Camp Tekoa, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young people, gain valuable skills and experience, develop as a person, make lifelong friends, and have fun. If you are looking for a summer job that is both challenging and rewarding, then consider Camp Tekoa.
We encourage you to take the time to explore our website and contact us if you have any questions regarding our summer employment opportunities. You can apply now!