Overview - Why Work at Four Winds Westward Ho?

- Training and Development -


For eight days prior to the campers' arrival, summer staff members participate in training in child and adolescent development, skills training, teambuilding, positive discipline, camp routines, safety planning, etc.  Professional educators, artists, and skill trainers will share their knowledge and experience. Throughout the summer the staff has consistent expert support and help to guide them through this challenging job.  Many staff members planning to pursue careers related to their work at Four Winds have commented that this was one of the most powerful experiences in their professional development.  In addition, the independence, creativity and responsibility required to complete this job successfully look great to future employers.

- Community -

If you have had the experience, you understand the intense yet comfortable and embracing community that develops in sharing a summer together at camp.  Our campers and staff come from all parts of the country and world and friendships develop that last well past the summer.  You'll meet and enjoy getting to know some very interesting and creative people and leave camp with invitations to visit friends from New Hampshire to New Zealand.

- Meaning -


No matter what your role, every day you will look into the eyes of a camper and know that you are having a profound impact on their lives. Camp is one of the most important things in these kids lives and you will be a significant part of making it memorable. You will always remember our camp songs, your experiences here, and build friendships that will last a lifetime.

- Beauty -


You will wake up every morning in one of the most beautiful places on the planet.  Outside Magazine did declare San Juan County the most beautiful county in America. Our camp is located on the water at the edge of a beautiful pine forest.

- Fun -

We don't have a lot of creature comforts here.  There is minimal electricity.  Our trips use wind and human power for travel.  There are no computers, TV or walkmans.  There are obviously no drugs or alcohol.  Some people would say "in spite of this..."  We like to think "because of this..." we tend to have a pretty good time.  Folk dances (with wild costumes and funky music), capture the chicken, Moonraker fire skit nights and morning songs on the steps are just a few of the scheduled occasions for general silliness.  The spirit of play pervades all we do and we can't think of a better way to spend a summer.

- Money -

We know the last reason anybody ever takes a summer camp job is for the money.  But with food, lodging, even laundry taken care of and plenty of free recreation to take advantage of on days off, most staff leave camp with close to a full summer's salary.  A starting counselor, with no extra credentials, earns $1600 for the main 9 weeks of summer. Staff with special training or experience can also make more. Staff choosing to stay for the one-week Junior Session at the end of the summer earn an additional amount depending on the position.