Camp Sunshine Volunteer Counselor

Camp Sunshine has been providing an overnight camp experience to teens and adults with developmental disabilities since 1983. Each year, the success of camp has relied on dedicated volunteers, especially our counselors. Volunteer counselors are paired with camper(s) to show love and support throughout the camp session. Each day of camp is carefully planned with traditional camp activities like ropes courses, creative expressions, swimming, music, meals together, and of course, a campfire with s’mores! Counselors can volunteer for one or two sessions or all four sessions. Counselors should be age 16 or older. 

This year, Camp Sunshine is offering 2 four day/three night camp sessions at both Camp Blodgett (West Olive) and Camp Henry (Newaygo) in Michigan. We’re recruiting students at your school to join us for camp – this experience is perfect for students in education or human service areas of study, but everyone is eligible to apply! Join us for one or more sessions! We’re seeking dedicated, compassionate individuals who are interested in serving as counselors and ready to experience the transformation - and joy - that Camp Sunshine offers!

2024 Camp Sunshine sessions will take place at both of our camp locations:​

Camp Henry in Newaygo
Session 1: June 1-4
Session 2: June 5-8 
Camp Blodgett in West Olive
Session 1: June 24-27
Session 2: June 28-July 1

All counselors must attend virtual training prior to camp and a training session during camp. Details about training will be communicated closer to the event.  Opportunities to receive college credit for this experience are available. Please contact us. We're happy to work with your institution to arrange credit. 

Overview of Counselor Responsibilities: 

• Attend training session
• Attend orientation upon arrival to camp
• Volunteer approximately 70+ hours per session (4 days, 3 nights)
• Give one-on-one attention to your assigned camper(s) 
• Provide general care in areas such as grooming, bathroom needs, assistance while eating, assisting in recreation and creative expressions while also allowing for camper independence and decision making
• Focus on the holistic nature of the camper including emotional, physical, recreational, relational, and spiritual needs
• Love, Respect, and Dignity for All - We believe that every camper and person at camp has gifts to give and things to teach us. With that in mind and as we create grace-filled inclusive spaces, we ask that every volunteer come open to both giving AND receiving.  This receiving requires humility and also serving each person with dignity and respect.
• Represent the Mission and Organization - when you volunteer with us you become part of the Camp Sunshine community. As part of Camp Sunshine we ask that you continue to share the story of Camp in word and in deed in the spaces you occupy. YOU are the ones that will make the world outside of Camp Sunshine a more affirming and inclusive place.