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OSU Extension

College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences

CFAES

Mahoning County

2024 Camp Counselor Application Process

2025 Camp Whitewood Dates: Sunday, June 29 – Friday, July 4, 2025

Complete the online Counselor Application by clicking on this link: https://go.osu.edu/2025counselorapp  

Click here for Counselor Requirements

DATE / DEADLINE: Complete this online application, Standards of Behavior and Code of Conduct by January 10, 2025.

2024 CAMP COUNSELOR INTERVIEWS: Camp Counselor Interviews will be in-person at the Mahoning County OSU Extension Office on Monday, January 20, 2025 (Martin Luther King Day). More information will be provided to those who apply.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION:

The 4-H Camp Counselors are a group of 4-H teens selected to assist in being responsible for campers ages 8-14 during 4-H camp. As a result of participation, counselors will develop knowledge, skills, attitudes, and aspirations needed for adult success, and the Mahoning and Portage County 4-H Program will be strengthened and expanded. Roles and Responsibilities of 4-H Camp Counselors include:

  • Attend required trainings prior to camp
  • Market and promote camp
  • Serve in a leadership and teaching role to other counselors
  • Serve on committees or other groups to plan programs at camp
  • Conduct self in an appropriate manner before, during, and after camp while serving as a role model to campers and peers
  • Assist staff and other counselors with camp activities; work as a team to implement the activities
  • Know and understand all safety guidelines, including emergency procedures, associated with the camp and program areas
  • Follow and enforce camp rules
  • Assure for the safety of campers at all times including in cabins, sessions, and large group activities
  • Be aware of child protection regulations and report any child abuse, sexual abuse, or neglect in accordance with university policy
  • Identify and respond to camper behavior issues
  • Ensure campers’ health and hygiene, e.g., brushing teeth, eating meals, taking medication, etc.
  • Promote camper participation during camp
  • Lead and supervise campers in activities at camp including but not limited to songs, teambuilding challenges, group activities, challenges, etc.
  • Teach and lead campers at workshops or during other components at camp (table setting, song leading, etc.)
  • Mentor and give guidance to campers to encourage positive youth development and enhancement of life skills

REQUIREMENTS:

  • Must be at least 16 years old by the start of camp.
  • 15 year olds may apply to be a Counselor In Training (CIT)
  • Must be a current active 4-H member in good standing.
  • Must be able to get transportation to meetings and events as needed.
  • Must complete a minimum of 20 hours of training (6 of these hours must be on-sight at Camp Whitewood).
  • Must complete Child Abuse Awareness training.
  • Must Sign Standards of Behaviors and complete the Code of Conduct form (both are online forms).
  • First time applicants must provide contact information for two references, returning counselors must provide one.
  • If the individual is 18+ years old at least two months prior to camp, the individual must have their background check conducted. 

SELECTION PROCESS:

  • Individuals who complete the application must also attend the interview process in order to be eligible.

MEETING DATES/TIME/FREQUENCY

  • 4-H Camp Counselors must attend Counselor Zoom trainings, online course trainings, in person meetings, and one 4-H Camp Whitewood counselor weekend (dates of meetings and trainings will be provided later).
  • Counselors are expected to notify the Extension Office if an absence is unavoidable.
  • 4-H Camp Counselors will be trained on topics such as the camp counselor core competencies; risk management, including active shooter guidelines, emergency protocols, and child abuse recognition.

TO APPLY:

  • Complete the application in its entirety.
  • Provide two non-family references with contact information (returning counselors must provide one reference).
  • Read and sign the Standards of Behavior and Camp Counselor Code of Conduct forms.
  • Complete this online application, Standards of Behavior, and Code of Conduct by Friday, January 10, 2025.