Camp Assistant Counsellor

Summer Day Camp Assistant Counsellor

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

• Assist Camp Counsellors with the preparation and delivery of camp programs and activities.
• Support the implementation of daily camp schedules and special events.
• Help facilitate games, activities, and group programming.
• Assist camp staff in maintaining a safe environment for campers.
• Follow YMCA policies related to camper safety and behavior management.
• Report concerns or incidents to camp staff immediately.

Camper Engagement

• Encourage camper participation and positive group interaction.
• Serve as a positive role model for campers.
• Help create a fun, welcoming, and inclusive camp environment.

Team Support

• Assist with setup and cleanup of program areas and equipment.
• Participate in camp routines including arrival, departure, and transitions.
• Work collaboratively with camp staff and leadership.

Skill Development

• Participate in camp training and mentorship opportunities.
• Demonstrate a willingness to learn and develop leadership skills.
• Build skills that support future roles within YMCA camps.

 

QUALIFICATIONS

• This is a development opportunity for those 15 – 17 years of age. If over 17, please apply for the Group Counsellor position.
• Interest in working with children and youth.
• Positive attitude and willingness to learn.
• Ability to work as part of a team.
• Patient, enthusiastic, and responsible.
• Completion or Involvement in YMCA of Niagara Leadership Programs is an asset.

 

Working Conditions:

• Participants may support day camp programs for 2-4 weeks during the summer.
• Work is in an outdoor environment in various weather conditions
• Typical days are Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:30am and 4:30pm.
• Engage in swimming at designated sites
• This role requires participation in activities involving varying levels of physical activity.
• Accommodation will be provided in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA).

 

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:

• Leadership and teamwork experience working with children and staff
• Training and mentorship from experienced YMCA camp leaders
• Experience in program planning, teamwork, and communication
• A professional reference for future employment or volunteer opportunities
• Priority consideration for future paid YMCA of Niagara camp positions
• One (1) month YMCA of Niagara Membership

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