The Staff

Each year, Heart of Brooklyn receives counselor applications from young professionals and students from around the world. BCAP Summer Camp has been fortunate enough to hire mature, energetic, and experienced counselors from an array of professional backgrounds including visual arts, dance, education, farming, theater, and science. The program also benefits from having former campers return to BCAP Summer Camp as counselors, helping us continue our tradition of fun, learning and friendship.

All potential staff members must provide three references and participate in an interview with the director. Candidates must exhibit experience with youth, an ability to work with others, high energy and motivation, and a willingness to learn and share with children while maintaining a safe environment. Upon successful completion of an interview, Heart of Brooklyn verifies references for all senior staff and conducts a search with the NYS Sex Offender Registry.

Staff participates in an orientation program (approved by NYC Department of Health & Mental Hygiene) that includes first aid certification and covers topics such as group management, discipline steps, and camp curriculum. Staff also learns camp-specific security procedures for each HOB institution.

At all times, each group of 23 campers is accompanied by a three person team of counselors which includes one Senior Counselor and two Junior Counselors.

Senior Counselors must be 21 years old, have completed at least 2 years of college, have experience teaching/leading activities, model methods of positive communication, and foster understanding among diverse audiences.

Junior Counselors must be at least 18 years old and have completed their senior year of high school, be able to set boundaries and lead by good example, and have patience and willingness to see things from a child’s perspective.