Summer Camp Counselor

About Us 

Harlem Grown’s mission is to inspire youth to live healthy and ambitious lives through mentorship and hands-on education in urban farming, sustainability, and nutrition. 

Harlem Grown operates 13 urban agricultural sites featuring 5 soil-based urban farms, 4 school gardens, 3 hydroponic greenhouses, and a mushroom chamber.  All of our sites are located between 122 and 152 Streets in Central Harlem, Manhattan. 

Since 2021, our programming has served over 10,000 youth in Harlem, we've produced and distributed over 100,000 servings of food, and diverted over 50,000 pounds of food scraps into local compost operations. 

Our Programs 

Harlem Grown provides youth and community development programs focused on urban farming, wellness, and sustainability through the lens of racial justice, food justice, social justice, and equity. Our youth focused programs include intensive school partnerships, educational farm tours, a summer camp, a Saturday enrichment program, monthly community events, an afterschool program, and our Mobile Teaching Kitchen. Our community development programs open to all ages include wellness workshops, special events, food scrap collection for composting, and fresh produce distribution to participants, volunteers, and neighborhood residents. 

Position Type: Seasonal: July 7th, 2024 - August 15th, 2025 

Mandatory: Paid Orientation June 23rd– July 3rd 

Schedule: Applicants must commit to work throughout the entire summer camp program, including orientation and wrap-up and be available to work Monday - Friday between the hours of 8:00AM and 6:00PM.  

Job Overview: Harlem Grown is seeking enthusiastic and high-energy Counselors for our Summer Camp program. As a Summer Camp Counselor, you will play a pivotal role in creating a positive and enriching experience for campers. The Counselors will be paired with a CIT to plan and supervise daily group activities that will include farming, cooking, and crafts in small-group settings in partnership with Educators and program management team. Counselors will be responsible for supervising and engaging with campers, fostering a sense of community, and ensuring their safety and well-being throughout the camp season. This role reports to the Director of Youth Programs.  

Responsibilities:

Supervision and Guidance: 

• Lead a group of campers in various age brackets, ensuring their safety and well-being. 

• Foster positive relationships with campers, promoting a supportive and inclusive camp environment. 

• Provide guidance and encouragement during activities, fostering personal and social development. 

• Ability to implement classroom management techniques in different spaces. 

Activity Planning and Implementation: 

• Assist in planning and executing a variety of age-appropriate activities, including sports, arts and crafts, nature walks, and team-building exercises. 

• Encourage camper participation and enthusiasm in all scheduled activities. 

• Adapt activities to accommodate the diverse needs and interests of campers. 

• Activities require lesson preparation and planning to ensure fun and enriching activities tailored to the campers. 

Safety and Emergency Response: 

• Maintain a constant awareness of camper whereabouts and activities to ensure a safe environment. 

• Follow camp safety protocols and emergency procedures. 

• Participate in emergency drills and exercises. 

Communication: 

• Communicate effectively with campers, educators, CIT’s, and camp leadership. 

• Provide feedback on camper progress to parents and guardians as needed. 

• Attend regular staff meetings to discuss camp logistics and address concerns. 

Role Model and Mentorship: 

• Demonstrate positive behavior and values for campers. 

• Serve as a mentor and role model, promoting a sense of responsibility, respect, and cooperation. 

Qualifications: 

• Must be at least 18 years old. 

• Previous experience working with children in a camp or recreational setting is preferred. 

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills. 

• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment. 

• Certification in CPR and First Aid is desirable. (Harlem Grown will provide)  

• Enthusiasm, creativity, and a genuine passion for working with children. 

• Plus if you have interest or background in cooking, food and/or farm education  

Benefits: 

• Competitive seasonal compensation. 

• Professional development opportunities. 

• The chance to make a lasting impact on the lives of children. 

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At Harlem Grown, diversity, equity, and inclusion are at the heart of what we do. We are an equal opportunity employer, and are committed to creating a culture of inclusivity, where each individual feels as if their identity, experience, and values are represented and supported. We are dedicated to creating a space where children, especially those of color, are given the opportunity and skills to lead healthy and ambitious lives. We strongly believe in building a team that reflects and appreciates the underrepresented population of students, families, and people that we serve. Become a member of our family.