Senior Counselor/Programming Lead for LGBTQ Camp

Camp Free2Be is seeking motivated youth leaders passionate about supporting and empowering trans and nonbinary youth to join our summer camp team and create queer magic with us this summer!

Senior Counselors will work directly on planning and implementing programming for Camp Free2Be, a day camp for transgender and nonbinary youth ages 6-14 in the DC area. With support of the Camp Directors, Senior Counselors will plan and co-lead a series of 5, 45-minute programs on an area of strength or interest. Topics of interest could include but are not limited to: arts and crafts, queer history, STEM challenges, fantasy/DND, drama, music, magic, sports, drag, creative writing, or propose your own! Programming will culminate in a final presentation or performance at our Family Showcase at the end of the camp session. Senior Counselors will also support general logistics and engage with campers throughout the camp day. This position will be supervised by the Little SMYALs Programs Manager. 

Exact camp planning and set-up dates are still being confirmed, but camp will be M-F for two weeks. Session One begins July 28, 2025 and Session Two begins August 4, 2025. Senior Counselors must be available to attend all 5 days of the session, as well as our Staff Training Retreat, typically the Friday before camp. Additionally, senior counselors are expected to help at our set-up day the Sunday afternoon before your session week.

Lesson Plans and materials lists must be completed by June 6th. Camp Staff will support Senior Counselors in developing these lesson plans throughout April-June. During camp, Senior counselors will receive support in working with campers from camp directors, the mental health team, and junior counselors.

Compensation

Senior Counselors who plan and co-lead 5 programs will receive a stipend of $750 per session at the completion of the session. 

Senior Counselor Responsibilities:

April-June:

• Attend monthly planning meeting with other Senior Counselors and Camp Directors
• Develop 5 activity plans for campers, age 6-9 and/or 10-14, on a subject of interest
• Attend two planning meetings with Camp Directors to discuss and revise activity plans

During Camp (July):

• Attend All-Staff Training Retreat
• Attend a full camp week: 8:30-4pm Mon-Thurs and 8:30-6:00 on Friday.
• With support from camp staff and Junior Counselors, implement one activity plan daily
• Throughout the rest of camp hours: support other activity leads, engage with campers one-on-one, prepare and distribute materials, help maintain clean space

Considerations

• Our camp culture is built around flexibility and grace– we encourage our staff to speak up for their needs as they arise throughout the day.
• Senior Counselors may experience loud volumes due to camp fun. We also offer a Chill Zone for lower-sensory environment throughout the day.
• Packed lunches are highly suggested in this fast-paced environment. Daily snacks are provided.
• Senior Counselors often work in high temperatures, as some camp activities take place outdoors in the DC heat.
• Camp is a transformative experience for many-- being embedded in LGBTQ+ community is really special for both our campers and staff!

Desired Qualifications

● Senior counselors must be between the ages of 18-24 as of July 12, 2025

● Knowledge about queer and trans youth communities, intersectional frameworks, and knowledge of youth development framework highly desired

● Must be sensitive to issues of identity, including race, class, sexual orientation, and gender identity. Must demonstrate a commitment to advancing racial justice and gender equity.

● Excitement to share personal hobbies and talents with youth (art, music, theater, games, etc.)

● Prior experience working with youth ages 6-14 in formal or informal contexts (tutoring, mentoring, sports, arts programs, camp, babysitting, etc.)

● Interest in, or prior experience working or volunteering in non-profit and/or educational settings

● Strong verbal and written communication skills; Comfort leading group discussions

● Excited to be a part of a team and work collaboratively

● Queer and trans individuals, people of color, and people of all abilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

Don't meet every single requirement? Studies have shown that gender minorities and people of color are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. SMYAL believes in justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion, as well as bringing your authentic self to the workplace, and we are seeking diverse role models for our campers! So if you are excited about this position but your past experiences do not align perfectly with every qualification, we encourage you to apply anyways! 

To Apply:

Applicants may submit a resume and cover letter at https://forms.gle/xMA4vTL3oR2n5gSp9. Cover Letter should highlight (1) your interest and experience in working with LGBTQ youth, (2) subject idea(s) for programming you would like to lead, and (3) any relevant college/university requirements for summer internships if applicable. 
This is a summer camp position– we are not looking for perfect writing and grammar- we are looking for creative ideas and enthusiasm! 
Applications will be reviewed as they are received starting in March until all positions are filled. Please apply no later than April 21, 2025.