Holyoke YMCA
Location
Holyoke, Massachusetts
The Program Counselor supervises and engages children in daily activities such as swimming, sports, and arts while ensuring safety protocols are followed. They also build positive relationships with participants and maintain clear communication with parents regarding camper progress.
Candidates should have experience working with children in camp or recreational settings and possess strong interpersonal skills. A valid CPR/First Aid/AED certification is required or must be obtained prior to the start of the camp.
This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit charitable organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. The Program Counselor creates a safe, engaging, and inclusive experience for all participants, helping them build relationships, develop confidence, and create lasting memories.
Supervises and actively engages a group of children in daily program activities including swimming, field trips, sports, arts, nature, and team-building games. Ensure safety by following all YMCA and summer program policies, procedures, and emergency protocols. Creates and implements engaging, developmentally appropriate, and culturally relevant activities aligned with the Y’s values. Builds positive, respectful relationships with all participants, modeling YMCA core values and behavior expectations. Encourages youth to participate, lead, and make choices that foster independence and problem-solving skills. Maintains communication with parents/caregivers and provides updates on camper progress and experiences. Attends and contributes to pre-camp orientation, daily check-ins, staff training, and end-of-season wrap-up. Maintains the cleanliness and organization of camp areas, supplies, and equipment. Performs additional duties as assigned.
LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES: Communication & Influence: Listens and expresses self effectively and in a way that engages, inspires, and builds commitment to the Y’s cause.
Experience working with children in camp, school, or recreational settings preferred. Must meet minimum age requirements (typically 16+ or 18+, depending on position) Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work in a team-oriented environment. CPR/First Aid/AED Certification (or willingness to obtain prior to camp start) Ability to respond to safety and emergency situations. Ability to adapt to various outdoor/indoor environments and remain active throughout the day Commitment to YMCA core values and a positive role model for youth WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Must be able to lead, actively participate in, and demonstrate camp activities in both indoor and outdoor environments. Ability to work in summer heat, move quickly, life supplies (up to 25 lbs), and respond to emergencies
Market context
In Massachusetts, summer program counselor roles are typically driven by seasonal demand from camps and recreation programs, especially for candidates with child supervision experience and current safety credentials. These positions can be competitive because employers often look for strong interpersonal skills, reliable communication, and valid CPR/First Aid/AED certification. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits on this page to save time, then confirm your certification status and highlight any camp or youth-program experience in your application.
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Salary benchmark
$67,733 avg / yr
Typical range: $37,440–$83,200 based on 285 active listings in Massachusetts