Summer Camp Counselor
About Us
Harlem Grown is an independent, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to inspire youth to lead healthy and ambitious lives through mentorship and hands-on education in urban farming, sustainability and nutrition. We operate local urban farms, increase access to and knowledge of healthy food for Harlem residents, and provide farm-based development programs to Harlem youth.
Founded in 2011 by Tony Hillery with one school partnership, one urban farm and an idea to help Harlem children, today Harlem Grown’s farms and greenhouses are used as classrooms and as venues to cultivate a connection to the environment and food among young people. Harlem Grown operates 14 urban agricultural sites featuring soil-based urban farms, hydroponic greenhouses, and a mushroom chamber. All of our sites are located between 122nd and 152nd Streets in Central Harlem, Manhattan.
Our Programs
Harlem Grown cultivates deep community roots by growing fresh food, strong youth, and lasting relationships. We meet children where they live, learn, and grow—offering opportunities that extend beyond our farms to the classroom and into their futures. Through Food and Farm Education, we help youth build healthy habits, leadership skills, and a deeper connection to their community. Our urban farms provide free produce and nutritious meals for families while creating joyful spaces for connection and support. Through 14 urban farms and year-round programming, we provide free produce, nutritious meals, and cooking lessons while creating joyful spaces for connection and support. In addition, our programs increase economic opportunity for families and develop leadership and advocacy skills so participants can drive transformational change in their communities.
At Harlem Grown, we grow healthy children and communities through hands-on education, access to resources, and long-term youth support. Our Food and Farm Education —including summer camp, in-school and after-school programs, mobile education, service learning, and farm tours—delivers farm-based lessons to children in our community. We offer free community resources like farmstands, Saturdays on the farm, and events that provide fresh food and create spaces for support and connection. Through academic support, internships, and career readiness programs, we help our young people build confidence and skills to thrive from elementary school through adulthood.
Position Type: Seasonal; July 6th, 2026 - August 14th, 2026
Mandatory: Paid Orientation June 24th – July 2nd
Schedule: Applicants must commit to work throughout the entire summer camp program, including orientation and wrap-up and be available to work Monday - Friday between the hours of 8:00AM and 4:00PM.
Job Overview
Harlem Grown is seeking enthusiastic and high-energy Counselors for our Summer Camp program. As a Summer Camp Counselor, you will play a pivotal role in creating a positive and enriching experience for campers. The Counselors will be assigned a classroom and support daily group activities that will include farming, cooking, and crafts in small-group settings in partnership with educators, group leaders, and the program management team. Counselors will be responsible for supervising and engaging with campers, fostering a sense of community, and ensuring their safety and well-being throughout the camp season. This role reports to the Director of Youth Programs.
Responsibilities:
1. Supervision and Guidance
- Lead a group of campers in various age brackets, ensuring their safety and well-being.
- Foster positive relationships with campers, promoting a supportive and inclusive camp environment.
- Ability to implement classroom management techniques in different spaces.
2. Activity Planning and Implementation
- Assist in planning and executing a variety of age-appropriate activities, including cooking, gardening, field trips, music, sports, arts and crafts, team-building exercises, and other various activities.
- Encourage camper participation and enthusiasm in all scheduled activities.
- Activities require lesson preparation and planning to ensure fun and enriching activities tailored to the campers.
3. Safety and Emergency Response
- Maintain a constant awareness of camper whereabouts and activities to ensure a safe environment.
- Follow camp safety protocols and emergency procedures.
4. Communication
- Communicate effectively with campers, educators, SYEPs, and camp leadership.
- Provide feedback on camper progress to parents and guardians as needed.
- Attend regular staff meetings to discuss camp logistics and address concerns.
5. Role Model and Mentorship
- Demonstrate positive behavior and values for campers.
Qualifications:
- Must be at least 18 years old.
- Highschool Diploma Required
- Previous experience working with children in a camp or recreational setting is preferred.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
- Certification in CPR and First Aid is desirable. (Harlem Grown will provide)
- Enthusiasm, creativity, and a genuine passion for working with children.
- A plus if you have interest or background in cooking, food and/or farm education
- A plus if you have interest or background in activity planning
Benefits:
- Competitive seasonal compensation.
- Professional development opportunities.
- The chance to make a lasting impact on the lives of children.
Hourly Range
$20—$24 USD
At Harlem Grown, diversity, equity, and inclusion are at the heart of what we do. We are an equal opportunity employer, and are committed to creating a culture of inclusivity, where each individual feels as if their identity, experience, and values are represented and supported. We are dedicated to creating a space where children, especially those of color, are given the opportunity and skills to lead healthy and ambitious lives. We strongly believe in building a team that reflects and appreciates the underrepresented population of students, families, and people that we serve. Become a member of our family.