Camp Counselor: Live In Austin! Housing & Meals Provided in Austin, Texas at Austin YMBL Sunshine Camps

About Austin Sunshine Camps (ASC):

Founded in 1928, (ASC) provides FREE overnight camp for youth who are in foster care or qualify for free/reduced lunch. We believe that the magic of summer camp shouldn’t be determined by a family’s income.

ASC is more than just another job - it’s a community. While you’re helping campers grow, you’ll be building a lifelong network of friends and mentors. You’ll walk away with a summer that stays with you forever, plus high- level leadership and professional skills that look incredible on a resume.

The Summer Rhythm

• The Commitment: Camp runs for four sessions, each lasting 10 days and 9 nights. This is an immersive, overnight experience where you’ll be the heart of your cabin's world. Note that staff members live on site.
• Rest & Recharge: We value your well-being. After each 10-day session, you’ll participate in a team cleanup and debrief before enjoying 4 full days off to explore Austin or relax before the next session starts.
• Pro-Tip for Students: You can use your summer at ASC for college internship credit while still receiving your seasonal pay.

Our Locations

• Lake Travis (Ages 12-15): A classic hill country setup in the Turkey Bend Recreation Area. Think lake swimming, high ropes courses, and sunset sports.
• Zilker Lodge (Ages 8-11): Located in the heart of central Austin. You’ll spend your days canoeing Lady Bird Lake, hiking the Greenbelt, and exploring Zilker Park.

About this position:

Camper Mentorship & Well-being

• Relationship Building: Foster a culture of caring and belonging within your cabin.
• Emotional Support: Help campers build emotional regulation skills and resolve conflicts using restorative practices.
• Trauma-Informed Care: Support campers in processing difficulties and developing resilience.
• Empowerment: Provide campers with intentional freedom and choices to build their confidence.

Program Leadership & Logistics

• Activity Facilitation: Lead or support daily activities, programs, and large-scale camp events.
• Cabin Planning: Create and implement engaging downtime activities and bedtime routines.
• Daily Operations: Follow assigned schedules and manage cabin logistics, including camper mail.

Safety & Supervision

• Active Supervision: Maintain constant supervision of campers in all areas, including overnight.
• Accountability: Conduct routine headcounts and maintain an accurate camper roster.
• Health & Safety: Adhere to ASC policies, health department regulations, and American Camp Association standards.
• Reporting: Complete behavior and incident reports as needed.

Requirements:

• Eligibility: Must be 18 years or older with a High School Diploma or GED.
• Mission-Driven: A genuine passion for empowering youth and creating a positive impact on the Austin community.
• Skills: Strong communication, interpersonal, and leadership abilities.
• Personal Attributes: High energy, positivity, flexibility, and the resilience to handle long hours and challenging situations.
• Experience (Preferred): At least 1 year of experience in camp, youth development, or outdoor programming.
• Requirements: Ability to pass a national criminal background check.

Compensation & Benefits

• Seasonal Salary: $3,000 for new staff ($3,950 for lifeguards).
• Full Room & Board: Free lodging and all meals/snacks provided while camp is in session.
• Professional Growth: Opportunity to earn college internship credit while being paid.
• Impact: A summer of personal growth and the chance to make a lifelong difference in the lives of a diverse group of campers.