Frequent Questions Staff Have
WHERE DOES YOUR STAFF COME FROM?
It is no surprise that many of our Kweebec staff return year after year and many have been campers themselves. We attract staff from across the United States and enjoy a nice population from abroad. We recruit counselors and specialists from international agencies who have expertise in their respective fields.
WHAT ARE THE CAMPERS LIKE?
Our campers range in age from 6-16 years old. Kweebec is a coed camp and campers are grouped by age. Many of our campers come from families who are looking for a safe place for their child to grow and learn, both as individuals and as part of the greater community. Kweebec campers will challenge you, cause you to laugh hysterically, adore you, and perhaps most importantly, make you a better person.
WHAT ARE THE LIVING ARRANGEMENTS?
All of our counselors live with a group of children during the summer. A typical bunk set up at Kweebec has anywhere from 8-12 campers (depending on age) living with 2-3 staff members. Our bunks are a nice mix of comfortable and campy, and all are equipped with private bathrooms and showers. Each staff member will have ample space for clothing and personal items.
WHAT KIND OF STAFF TRAINING WILL I RECEIVE?
The counselor staff joins us at camp approximately one week prior to the campers’ arrival for orientation. During this time, staff will have the opportunity to learn Kweebec’s philosophies and be provided with all of the tools necessary to become the best possible counselor. Counselors will also learn about the campers and spend a great deal of time building camaraderie with fellow staff members. Training for our waterfront and outdoor adventure staff starts a bit earlier.
WHAT ARE THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF A COUNSELOR?
The top priority of our counselors at Kweebec is to ensure the campers’ physical and emotional well-being. As a counselor, you will dedicate each day to connecting deeply with the campers in your care, and fostering a true sense of belonging within your bunk. Our counselors help to assist in the activity planning process, and lead campers as they participate in camp events. Being a counselor can be both physically and mentally demanding. But, the rewards & personal growth you will experience are unlike any other job and will make it all well worth it.
IS THERE ANY TIME OFF?
We understand that being a counselor is a difficult job that requires time off to relax and recharge. Counselors have one period off per day and a few nights off per week. In addition, counselors have four days off during the summer. Days off begin at approximately 8:00 pm and end at curfew the following night. During days off, staff typically leave camp to explore the surrounding area and to take advantage of our proximity to Philadelphia. Counselors who choose to stay at camp for their days off are welcome (and encouraged) to take advantage of all of our facilities during their time off.
HOW DOES THE COUNSELOR STAFF GET PAID?
The salaries for our staff range on a camp scale that considers age, skill qualifications and previous camp experience. Don’t forget, once you are at camp, you won’t have any camp-related expenses. Room, board and laundry are all provided by Camp Kweebec.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK?
We will send you a suggested packing list once you have secured a position with us.
WHAT DO I DO IF A CAMPER IS HOMESICK?
We spend time during orientation discussing strategies and tools that can be used when a camper is homesick. Our leadership team – supervisors, head counselor, directors and owners – have vast experience with campers overcoming homesickness as it is a normal part of adjusting to overnight camp and will also always be available for additional support.
WHAT IS THE CELL PHONE POLICY FOR THE STAFF?
Staff members, unless individually told, are not permitted to have their cell phones while they are on duty nor can they be in the bunks where they live. We provide staff with a locked box for storage of their cell phones. Staff can use their cell phones during off times in designated locations around camp.
WHAT IS THE DRUG & ALCOHOL POLICY?
Staff members are expected to obey all state and federal laws as they relate to drug use and the consumption of alcohol. We have a zero-tolerance policy for drug use and alcohol use. Staff members are prohibited from returning to camp under the influence of drugs and alcohol. As a counselor, you are not able to effectively do your job keeping campers safe and happy nor can you be a proper role model while under the influence. Smoking cigarettes, e-cigarettes and vaporizers is also not permitted anywhere in camp.
