Location
YMCA Day Camp at sites in St. Catharines, Grimsby, Welland, Port Colborne, and Niagara Falls
Pay
Stipend of $200 per week upon successful completion.
Vacancies
30
Placement Date
Weeks between July - September 2026 with prior training
Work for a charity that ignites the potential in people. Every. Single. Day.
At the YMCA of Niagara, you’ll be part of a purpose-led organization with a clear focus on community well-being. Our work is powered by relationships and grounded in inclusion. We support people of all ages and circumstances with opportunities that build health, belonging, and connection so individuals and families can grow, lead, and give back.
For more than 150 years, we have been part of the fabric of this region, evolving alongside Niagara and showing up where the need is greatest. With a presence in over 125 program sites, we continue to expand what well-being can look like, creating welcoming spaces where more people can participate and feel they belong.
Guided by our shared values of caring, health, honesty, inclusiveness, respect, advocacy, and responsibility, the YMCA offers meaningful roles where your work is felt every day. If you’re ready to bring energy and care to a team that keeps moving forward, you’ll find purpose here.
NATURE & SCOPE
The Assistant Counsellor is a youth development role designed for individuals interested in gaining experience working with children and developing leadership skills in a camp environment. This role is an excellent opportunity for youth interested in childcare, recreation, education, or leadership roles in the future.
Working alongside YMCA Group Counsellors, Assistant Counsellors support daily camp activities, assist with games and programs, and contribute to creating a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for campers.
This role provides mentorship and hands-on learning opportunities that help participants develop teamwork, communication, and leadership skills. Assistant Counsellors gain insight into the responsibilities of camp staff and build experience that can support future employment as a Group Counsellor or other camp leadership roles.
Assistant Counsellors work under the supervision of YMCA camp staff and are not responsible for independent supervision of campers.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Camp Support
Camper Engagement
Team Support
Skill Development
QUALIFICATIONS
Working Conditions:
COMPETENCIES:
Service Orientation
Proactively creates positive, inclusive experiences that enhance the quality of service for campers, families, and staff.
Quality & Outcome Focus
Supports YMCA program standards and responds appropriately to concerns that may affect safety, program quality, or values.
Relationship Building & Collaboration
Builds positive working relationships with campers, staff, and volunteers to support program success.
Diversity
Values and promotes diverse perspectives and inclusive practices that strengthen the YMCA community.
DAY CAMP OVERVIEW
Camp operates Monday to Friday with shifts scheduled between 8:30am and 4:30pm. Most camp staff are scheduled to work between 7.5 and 8.5 hours per day.
For more information on this and the variety of camps we offer, please visit our website ymcadaycamp.ca.
Successful applicants must attend all pre-camp meetings and training including training on YMCA Child & Youth Safety and Protection Policies and Procedures.
Why Start your Journey at Camp
An Assistant Counsellor provides valuable opportunities to build skills and gain experience, including:
APPLICATION PROCESS
Interested applicants are invited to submit an application by noon on May 22, 2026.
Internal applicants are encouraged to notify their supervisor before applying.
All applicants are thanked for their interest. Only those applicants being considered for an interview will be contacted by email.
Accessibility accommodations and materials in alternate formats for individuals with disabilities can be arranged upon request.
For more information on other opportunities at the YMCA of Niagara, please visit: ymcaofniagara.org