International Camp Counselor Program

2. Types of Camps

a. Overnight – Located in rural areas away from the town and transportation. Campers and staff live at the camp, experiencing a full schedule of activities during the day and sleeping in cabins or tents at night.

b. Wilderness Camping – Many overnight camps have trip and/or biking programs. The staff working in these areas will take groups of children away from camp for hiking, canoeing, or just tent camping for many days.

c. Girl Scout Camps – Highly scheduled, for young girls, staff & campers live in platform tents. Usually rustic accommodations.

d. YMCA Camps – The YMCA is a Christian organization. Although it does not promote any specific denomination, prayers, and worship may be part of the camp’s activities.

e. Day – Usually located in urban settings, campers arrive at camp each morning and return home in the afternoon. The day is packed with activities. In most cases, international staff lives with “host families”.

f. Religious – Operated by Christian or Jewish organizations, these camps provide a broad range of outdoor activities within the framework of promoting positive values. Daily prayer, worship, and Bible study are major camp activities.

g. Underprivileged – Children may be referred by social service organizations are given the opportunity to experience special attention and facilities making it possible for them to enjoy a range of camp activities.

h. Physically Disabled – Children and adults with physical limitations are provided special attention and facilities making it possible for them to enjoy a range of camp activities.

i. Learning Disabled – Children and adults with learning disabilities are provided with special attention to help them achieve their fullest potential.

3. When Is The Program Available

Participants must be available to work in the U.S. between May to August (minimum of 10 weeks) during their official summer break. Participants are expected to return home in time for the new semester.

4. Eligibility Requirement

Camp Counselor/ Program Specialist Criteria:

• Be between 18 and 30 years old
• Have strong leadership skills
• Have good English skills
• Experience with youth
• Undergo an interview before you can be accepted into the program
• Available between May – August for at least 10 weeks

Support Staff Criteria:

• Be between 18 and 30 years old
• Speak English well
• Full time university student
• Available between May – August for at least 10 weeks

*Please refer to the FAQ section for the difference between a camp counsellor and support staff.

5. How to apply

YMCA of Singapore usually commences recruitment from August to October and organizes school talks in local universities such as Singapore Management University (SMU), National Technology University (NTU) and Singapore Institute of Management (SIM). Briefings are also held in the YMCA. Interested applicants can choose to sign up online too.

Please click on the following link to register for YMCA International Camp Counselor Program, and we will contact you upon receiving your completed registration form.

Recruitment drives will also be held in our scheduled talks in various local universities. Do check your school email or on our website for the details to catch us in your school!

Application Procedure

1. Download and complete the registration form
2. Mail it back to joyceyu@ymca.org.sg
3. Receive a confirmation reply from us
4. Shortlisted candidates will have to pay an non-refundable registration fee of S$200
5. An interview slot will be allocated to you
6. Balance payment of S$400 is to be made within 1 week after camp placement confirmation

Application closes on 31^st December 2010

For details of the programme fee, please click here 

6. What Is Included In The Program

Before Departure

· Pre-selection orientation & interview in Singapore

· A guaranteed and secured camp placement before arrival

· Legal documentation (Issuing of DS- 2019 form necessary for visa application, SEVIS payment)

· A comprehensive participant handbook, packed with useful information and tips for your work and travel experience

· Pre- Departure Orientation

· Orientation package

Arrival in the U.S.

· Free airport pickup arrangement to orientation

· Arrival orientation

· Free transportation to the campsite

· Food and lodging while at camp

· Medical insurance coverage of up to 16 weeks

· Assistance in Social Security application

· 24 hours assistance and support from International YMCA staff to contact for emergencies.

· Continued assistance and support from YMCA of Singapore

7. FAQ

Q Why the YMCA?

A The YMCA is a global movement in more than 130 countries around the world. The international YMCA and YMCA of Singapore work closely to provide:

1. Fast and reliable services

2. Excellent, compassionate and timely participant support for the duration of the program

3. Complete and extensive screening of all summer camps employers and participants

Q What is the difference between a camp counselor and a support staff?

A Participants in camp counselor positions share their culture with American children while providing direct supervision, program instruction, and in many cases, must live with the campers.

Support staffs are critical to the overall efficiency of the camp operations. Support staff though most of the time is not in direct contact with campers, is the one who ensure that camp runs smoothly. The responsibilities may be in: Food Service, Kitchen Aid/ Dishwasher, Maintenance, Laundry, Office admin, Waiter/Waitress.

Q Can I choose the type of jobs to work as?

A International staff is hired in a variety of camp positions depending on skill and/or experience level of the individual. Applicants can indicate if they are willing to accept a counselor or support staff position.

Q How long must/can I work?

A You must be able to work a minimum of up to 10 weeks work (including camp training). Some host sites may have a longer summer season.

Q How much is the wage rate?

A In 2008, the salaries were: US$1,300 (camp counselor) and US$1,575 (special needs counselor/ lifeguard/ support staff) for 10 weeks + Room/Board

Q What are the working hours like?

A Participant is provided with a minimum of 24hours off each week and with assistance with transportation off campsite on days and evenings off. Support staff may not work more than 10 consecutive hours per day.

Q Will my accommodation be provided?

A Room & board or home stay/host family will be arranged for you for the duration of the program.

Q Are meals and laundry also provided?

A Meals are provided for at the campsite and at the host family. Laundry services will depend on the types of camps you are working at.

Q Will I be covered by insurance?

A Yes. You are covered by accident and sickness insurance while you are a participant in the program (dates stated on your DS- 2019), which covers bulk of your medical expenses. Students are also encouraged to purchase the AIG travel insurance.

8. Contact Us