[2026] Village Leader, Fresh Air Camps

Village Leader / Head Counselor 
Fresh Air Camps | Hudson Valley, NY | June 15 to August 15, 2026 

Life as a Village Leader /Head Counselor  

Fresh Air Camps is seeking experienced leaders to serve as Village Leaders/Head Counselors at our six summer camps in beautiful Hudson Valley, NY. Village Leaders play a critical role in the camp community by managing the day-to-day operations of specific camper age groups, supervising a staff of 10-15, and ensuring high-quality programming and camper care. This position offers an excellent opportunity for individuals with prior camp experience to take on a leadership role and support the success of the camp program. 

This position requires living onsite at camp from June 15 to August 15, 2026, semi-private adult housing and meals provided. Compensation for this role is $3,000 to $3,300 for the summer.  

What You’ll Do 

• Supervise, mentor, and support a team of 10–15 counselors and oversee a village of approximately 30 campers. 
• Plan and coordinate village activities, and assist counselors in creating engaging and age-appropriate cabin programs. 
• Lead staff meetings and provide regular feedback including conducting mid and end of summer evaluations for staff. 
• Address camper and counselor behavioral challenges in collaboration with the Camper Support Services Liaison. 
• Model effective behavior management techniques and foster a positive, inclusive village culture. 
• Maintain active communication with campers, staff, parents, and fellow administrators. 
• Participate in all camp programming, including hikes, overnights, swimming, and camp-wide events 
• Assist with camp-wide activities  
• Maintain a strong presence in the village and at village events. 
• Prepare and submit required reports, evaluations, and inventories accurately and on time. 
• Prioritize camper needs when making decisions and uphold a camper-first philosophy. 
• Participate actively in the camp community — including campfires, overnights, hikes, swimming, and village meetings. (Some lifting or physical activity may be required.) 
• Communicate, model, and uphold camp policies, traditions, and community standards. 
• Ensure the safety, supervision, and well-being of all campers at all times. 
• Demonstrate professionalism and approachability, maintaining healthy boundaries, and avoiding fraternization with general staff while on/off duty. 
• Serve as a role model for campers and staff by showing enthusiasm, empathy, and commitment to camp values. 
• Live and work in a communal camp environment — including shared cabins, limited privacy, and group dining. Time off during each session will be scheduled by the supervisor. 
• Care for and responsibly use camp facilities, property, and equipment. 
• Be familiar with and follow all emergency and safety procedures. 
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the success of the camp community. 

What We’re Looking For 

• Must be at least 18 years old by the start of camp (June 29, 2026). 
• Prior leadership and supervisory experience required. 
• Extensive experience as a counselor or staff member in a youth-related setting preferred. 
• Commitment to work and live onsite at camp for the entire summer season (June 15 to August 15, 2026). 
• College or equivalent preferred. 

As part of our commitment to maintaining a safe and healthy workplace and to protecting the participants we serve, The Fresh Air Fund requires all camp staff to meet applicable vaccination requirements in accordance with federal, state, and local laws, and to be fully vaccinated against polio and MMR. As new public health issues arise, The Fresh Air Fund may require additional vaccinations. Proof of vaccination or an approved exemption will be required as a condition of employment. 

Compensation & Benefits 

• Compensation for this role is $3,00 to $3,300 for the summer.  
• All meals and semi-private adult housing provided. 
• The opportunity to gain valuable experiences in leadership, communication, and teamwork that will stand out on any resume. 

How to Apply 
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and interviews are held virtually by our Camp Directors. 

Discover Fresh Air Camps 
Since 1877, Fresh Air Fund Camps have opened new doors for over 1.8 million children, offering transformative summer programs and year-round leadership opportunities. Our six residential camps are located in the beautiful Hudson Valley, offering a stunning natural setting for exploration and growth. Each camp provides unique programming tailored to different age groups and interests, from outdoor adventure to arts and sciences, creating an enriching environment for both campers and staff. Learn more about Fresh Air Camps: www.freshair.org/learn-about-our-camps/ 

Diversity & Inclusion Statement 
The Fresh Air Fund is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer committed to inclusive hiring and fostering a diverse staff. We strongly encourage candidates of all identities, experiences, orientations, and communities to apply.