Frequently Asked Questions - Counselors
the job
What's the difference between cabin counselor and program counselor?
Cabin counselors will stay with the same group of campers the entire week and guide them through the whole experience. Program counselors will still live in a cabin, but interact with all campers while leading activities.
What does a typical day at camp look like?
8:00 Breakfast
Will every week be the same?
No! Every week will be a different theme and a new crew of campers. You will likely rotate which cabin you stay in and which other staff members you co-counsel your cabin with.
As a program counselor, which activities will I lead?
All of them! You will be cross-trained in all areas. Your schedule will be dependent on the campers needs as well as your personal skill set.
As a cabin counselor, will I lead any activities?
Yes! You will be trained to lead some of the core activities- such as archery and fishing- as well.
How much will I get paid?
Cabin and program counselors are paid $300 per week.
Will I be trained?
Yes! Our extensive training will cover everything you need to know from wheelchair transfers, battling homesickness, silly songs, what to do when it’s raining, how to facilitate activities, how to adapt things for your individual camper, and more.
How much care do campers need?
It varies. Some campers will be independent at a 1:4 counselor/camper ratio. Others will require more assistance in transferring in and out of wheelchairs, moving wheelchairs, eating, bathing, and toileting. We will have some campers that require 1:1 care. All necessary training to keep campers healthy and happy will be provided.
Can I receive internship credit?
Yes! We routinely work with schools to sign off on internship credit and will happil provide any evaluations needed. It is the staffs responsibility to arrange this with their university.
When is the 2020 season?
PROGRAM counselors May 17th - August 7th
I have some time off I need during the summer. Can I still apply?
Yes! We are willing to work around schedules for the right applicants.
camp life
Where will I live?
In cabins with campers, or occasionally with just other staff. All cabins have twin size bunk beds, attached or nearby bathhouses, electricity, and air conditioning.
What will I eat?
While camp is in session all meals will be provided in our dining hall. Special diets such as vegetarian and vegan can be accommodated
It's the weekend. Can I stay at camp?
Yes! Camp will be open for you all summer, even if there are not campers on site. Some kitchens will be available for your use if/when meals are not provided.
Will I have time off?
Yes! You will have at minimum 24 hours off during the weekends. Additionally, we will strive to give staff breaks at least two evenings a week.
Can I bring my pet?
No. Sorry!
Is there medical staff?
Yes, a registered nurse will be on site or on call.
Is there internet or cell phone service at camp?
Yes! Wifi is available in the main office, the Lodge, and the Woods Center. We are in cell phone reception, however staff is NOT permitted to have their phone on their person while on duty.
What is there to do around camp on our free time?
Camp is 15 miles from Bloomington/Normal which hosts all of your basic needs and more. Everything from Target, restaurants, movie theatres and much more is just a few minutes away. Additionally we are about 2 hours from Chicago and 3 hours from St. Louis.
Can I bring my car?
Yes!
I'm from out of state. Can someone help me get to camp?
We can provide transportation from the airports or train stations in either Peoria or Bloomington/Normal to camp.
Will I make friends?
Yes! The friends you make amongst other staff at camp will be some of your best lifelong friends. You will get to know them all well during training, and will work as a team all summer. Additionally, there will be a secret staff Facebook group set up in early spring for you to get to know your soon to be BFFs.