Lead Art & Lit Counselor

Who We Are

At DEAN Adventure Camps, we create life-changing opportunities for young people to discover their passions, explore endless possibilities, achieve meaningful goals, and navigate thrilling adventures—all while developing character and skills that last a lifetime.

Guided by our core values of Compassion, Trust, Growth, and Creativity, we foster an environment where learning, discovery, and personal development thrive. Our vision is to inspire generations of resilient, compassionate, and confident individuals who contribute positively to their communities and the world.

We operate across DC, MD, NJ, PA, and VA, offering all-inclusive programs that make summer exciting for children and easy for families. Learn more: DEAN Adventure Camps.

What You’ll Do

As a Lead Art & Lit Counselor, you’ll help create a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment where kids thrive and build skills. Your responsibilities include:

• Leading creative projects that combine writing and art, such as illustrated stories, comic strips, short plays, and collaborative murals.
• Teaching art techniques (drawing, illustration, perspective, shading, mixed media) in an age-appropriate, engaging way.
• Guiding storytelling and writing exercises that build literacy and confidence, including character creation, poetry, and group storytelling.
• Encouraging personal expression while reinforcing respect for peers’ ideas and creations.
• Designing lessons that balance daily progress with camper excitement, ensuring projects are completed within a week and aligned with DEAN curricula.
• Supporting the Site Director in operating your designated program, such as: attendance reporting, supply management, and documenting incidents.
• Fostering a welcoming space that celebrates diversity and inclusion.
• Managing groups with enthusiasm, patience, and creativity.

What Makes You a Great Fit

As a Lead Art & Lit Counselor, you must be able to teach and display technical knowledge associated with the following subject:

• Art & Lit
  • Creative Writing & Storytelling – Knowledge of age-appropriate writing techniques, including plot, character development, and dialogue.
  • Drawing & Illustration – Ability to teach artistic styles such as shading, perspective, and character design.
  • Mixed Media Projects – Comfortable blending visual and written arts to create multidimensional projects that keep campers engaged.
• Adaptable Teacher – Skilled at keeping elementary-age campers (7–11) engaged with structured lessons balanced by opportunities for imagination. Patient and encouraging, turning mistakes into learning moments.
• Youth Experience – Experienced in group management, with the ability to keep projects on track while supporting different skill levels. Comfortable leading discussions, offering constructive feedback, and celebrating camper creativity.
• Mentor & Role Model – You bring energy, professionalism, and creativity that inspire campers and staff alike.
• Problem-Solver – You think on your feet, helping counselors and campers overcome obstacles quickly and calmly.
• Team Player – You excel at mentoring Assistant and Junior Counselors through strong leadership and communication. You are comfortable managing CITs.

Schedule and Requ