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Weekend Respite Care Counselor (Variable Schedule)

The Indian Trails Camp Inc
place Grand Rapids, 49505
local_atm $12.50 an hour
work_outline
Full Time

About Job

Make an Impact. Have Fun. Change Lives.
Flexible weekends. Unforgettable experiences.

We’re on the lookout for enthusiastic, responsible, and compassionate individuals to join our team of Respite Camp Counselors for our Weekend Respite Camps (Friday–Sunday) and One-Day Camps (Saturdays only) throughout 2025-2026. Pick the weekends that work for YOU—we’ll schedule around your availability!

Ready for a weekend that changes lives—including your own?

Spend your weekends immersed in 30 acres of beautiful forest, surrounded by laughter, adventure, and community. As a Respite Camp Counselor, you’ll help create unforgettable experiences for campers with physical, cognitive, and/or developmental disabilities—while forming meaningful friendships, gaining valuable skills, and making a difference that lasts a lifetime.

What’s in It for You?
  • Flexible Scheduling: Sign up only for the weekends that fit your calendar
  • Pay:
    Weekend Camps (Fri–Sun): $275 total + free room and board
    One-Day Camps (Saturdays): $12.50/hour for 8 hours
  • All-Inclusive Perks:
    Meals during camp included
    On-site lodging in cabins
    Free parking
  • Unforgettable Environment: Enjoy nature, fresh air, and time away from your daily routine.
  • Purpose-Driven Work: Help campers live life to the fullest in a safe, inclusive space.
  • Professional Growth: Hands-on experience in caregiving, education, special needs support, behavior management, emergency response, teamwork, and leadership.
What We Expect of You
As a Respite Camp Counselor, you’ll support your campers throughout all aspects of the camp weekend, including:
  • Assist campers during activities such as:
    • Arts & crafts
    • Swimming
    • Boating
    • Ropes course
    • Campfires
    • Meal times and more
  • Encourage participation by adapting activities to meet a wide range of physical, emotional, and cognitive needs
  • Be a role model: Offer emotional support, companionship, encouragement, and fun!
  • Provide physical assistance as needed, including:
    • Feeding
    • Dressing
    • Toileting
    • Showering
  • Supervise campers at all times with safety as your top priority
  • Support campers in emergency situations (illness, injury, evacuation, etc.)
  • Work as a team to maintain a clean and organized cabin and shared camp spaces
  • Participate in camper check-in/out, transitions, and end-of-weekend cleaning
  • Follow all policies and procedures, including HIPAA confidentiality and licensing standards
  • Collaborate with Health Office Staff to ensure you understand each camper’s unique needs, including:
    • Medical conditions
    • Dietary restrictions
    • Safety protocols
    • Behavioral support plans
  • Take on other responsibilities as assigned by Camp Director or Lead Counselors
What Do You Need to Qualify?
  • Must be at least 18 years old and a high school graduate (or equivalent)
  • Ability to lift 50+ lbs and provide physical assistance to campers
  • Clear background check (local, state, and federal)
  • Must complete all required paperwork and staff training
  • Strong communication skills with campers, coworkers, and families
  • Passion for working with individuals with physical, cognitive, and/or developmental disabilities
  • Positive attitude, patience, empathy, and the ability to be flexible and adapt
  • Ability to respond appropriately in emergencies
  • Understand and maintain HIPAA confidentiality
  • No alcohol or drug use while on camp property or working a shift
  • Must be able to work outdoors and indoors in all weather conditions for extended periods

Position Information:
  • Job Type: Variable weekends/dates (you choose your weekends)
  • Weekend Schedule:
    • Arrive Friday at 3:00 PM
    • Depart Sunday at 12:00 PM
  • One-Day Schedule (optional):
    • Saturdays, 8 hours total
  • Pay: $275 per weekend
    Included:
    • Living quarters – in cabin with campers.
    • All meals during camp weekends.
    • Free parking
  • Reports to: Camp Director

IKUS Life Enrichment Services
ikuslife.org
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).