Summer Camp Counselor

Overview

Harlem Grown is an independent, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to inspire youth to lead healthy and ambitious lives through mentorship and hands-on education in urban farming, sustainability, and nutrition. We operate local urban farms, increase access to and knowledge of healthy food for Harlem residents, and provide farm-based development programs to Harlem youth. Founded in 2011 by Tony Hillery, Harlem Grown’s farms and greenhouses serve as classrooms and community spaces in Central Harlem, Manhattan.

Our programs include Food and Farm Education, summer camp, in-school and after-school programs, mobile education, service learning, and farm tours. We offer free resources like farm stands, Saturdays on the farm, and events to provide fresh food and support for families, while developing leadership and advocacy skills to drive transformational change in communities. Through 14 urban farms and year-round programming, we provide free produce, nutritious meals, and cooking lessons to youth and families.

Position Type: Seasonal

Dates: July 6, 2026 – August 14, 2026

Mandatory: Paid Orientation June 24 – July 2

Schedule: Applicants must commit to work throughout the entire summer camp program, including orientation and wrap-up, and be available Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM.

Harlem Grown is seeking enthusiastic and high-energy Counselors for our Summer Camp program. Counselors will be assigned a classroom and support daily group activities that include farming, cooking, and crafts in small-group settings in partnership with educators, group leaders, and the program management team. Counselors will supervise and engage with campers, foster a sense of community, and ensure safety and well-being throughout the camp season.

This role reports to the Director of Youth Programs.

• Supervision and Guidance:
  Lead a group of campers in various age brackets, ensuring safety and well-being.
• Foster positive relationships with campers and promote a supportive, inclusive camp environment.
• 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 cooking, gardening, field trips, music, sports, arts and crafts, team-building exercises, and other activities.
• Encourage camper participation and enthusiasm in all scheduled activities.
• Prepare and tailor lesson plans to ensure fun and enriching activities.
• Safety and Emergency Response:
  Maintain awareness of camper whereabouts and activities to ensure a safe environment; follow camp safety protocols and emergency procedures.
• Communication:
  Interact effectively with campers, educators, SYEPs, and camp leadership; provide feedback on camper progress to parents and guardians as needed; attend regular staff meetings.
• Role Model and Mentorship:
  Demonstrate positive behavior and values for campers.

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• High school Diploma required.
• Previous experience working with children in a camp or recreational setting 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.
• Nice to have interest or background in cooking, food, and/or farm education.
• Interest or background in activity planning is a plus.

• Competitive seasonal compensation.
• Professional development opportunities.
• The opportunity to make a lasting impact on the lives of children.

Hourly Range: $20 USD - $24 USD

Harlem Grown is an equal opportunity employer. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are core to our mission, and we are committed to creating a culture of inclusivity where every individual’s identity, experience, and values are represented and supported. We aspire to build a team that reflects and values the communities we serve.