My experience last summer - Camp Counselor True Friends Employee Review

This is by far my favorite job I've ever had. You learn so much and get a lot of independence! The job is so rewarding and you will grow SO much as a human

Independence can be scary Long hours Stressful environment Subpar Pay

Very fun, fulfilling, strong community, great mission I had a lot of fun working here 90% of the campers were amazing

During my time, several of my fellow counselors were assaulted physically and/or sexually. Many of the people you are helping are adults and may be stronger than you. As a then-17-year-old, having a fully grown man trying to hurt me was scary. Of course, a lot of these people have profound behavioral needs, but the staff was not adequately trained to keep everyone safe (through no fault of their own). During my time, I saw a councillor get bitten (deep enough that it bled), multiple people got concussions, and one person got several teeth knocked out. I had a really good time for most of the week, and had even planned to come back next summer and maybe get a job there, but when I asked several current councillors about it, they strongly urged me to reconsider. There were multiple times that they told me about management not giving them time off (even when concussed) and not keeping them safe. The campers are rarely sent home (I understand that the caregivers need a break), but even when threatening violence, they were allowed to stay at the camp.