Camp Counselor Program

Program Overview

The Camp Counselor program allows foreign students, youth workers, teachers, and other eligible candidates experienced in working with youth, the opportunity to work in the US as a camp counselor for up to 4 months during the US summer camp season.  Foreign counselors work alongside US staff members, provide additional skill sets to teach campers, and offer the benefits of a cultural exchange experience.

Coordination

ACES is a designated J1 sponsor for the Camp Counselor program.  As a sponsor we screen and interview eligible candidates for the program and vet employment positions with eligible camps.  Upon approval, ACES provides visa sponsorship which is required for any candidate to obtain their J1 camp counselor visa.  Our coordination and support starts there and continues through a participant’s program.

Eligibility

Camp Counselors must be at least 18 years of age, be clear of any criminal convictions, possess a strong desire to work with children and have one or more teachable skills.

Program Duration

The term of employment and/or the internship must be no less then three weeks and may not exceed four months.  Participants are permitted to enter the US up to 30 days prior to their start date and are eligible to travel for up to 30 days after the employment end date.

Visa Requirements

All participants must obtain a J1 visa.  Most participants must apply through the US embassy in their home country.  ACES provides the sponsorship necessary in order to apply for the J1 visa. (Canadian citizens receive their visa at the port of entry and do not need to schedule an embassy interview.)

Recruiting

ACES is partnered with numerous recruiting groups from around the world.  Our unique partnership agreements, mean that camps have access to a wide variety of countries, with staff offering many different skill sets.