Help Wanted: Worker shortage threatens North Carolina summer camps as well as those across the United States! With school out, millions of kids across the country are heading to summer camps. I grew up going to camp and it gave me some of the best memories of my life. I’m a huge advocate that it’s an experience all children should have and back up that feeling by donating to the “Send A Kid To Camp” campaign at the camp I attended. But, like so many other businesses, a staffing shortage is forcing some camps to now cancel at the last minute, leaving parents to scramble to find something for their kids to do. Summer camps already struggled the last two years during the pandemic.
Memories To Last A Lifetime
Now, in an effort to keep camps going, many are increasing pay or offering signing bonuses for employees. While the pay may not be fantastic, it truly is the best summer job I ever had. And probably the best job overall I’ve already had. (Sorry to my boss if you’re reading this!). You’ll make memories, create friendships that will last a lifetime, impact the lives of children, and get to step out of your comfort zone by trying new things. Plus while the pay is less than other jobs, if you work at a residential camp you’ll get a place to stay all summer as well as your meals are taken care of. So you won’t be spending that money you’re making! During the two years I was on staff while in college, I worked a full summer and took home a chunk of money that was enough to cover my “fun expenses” for most of the school year.
Plus I can’t say it enough, you will have the summer of your life. I met and made friends with people all across the country, and even the globe. Many of my friends ended up meeting their future spouses at camp. Not into the outdoors? Honestly, I wasn’t that much either. And I wasn’t roughing it. Most camps give you the option to select the activity you work at, and many can be indoors. Plus I know where I worked cabins were air-conditioned, and there was wi-fi in the break areas. Finding the right fit is important as well. I recently did a story about different North and South Carolina Summer camps that I’ll attach at the bottom of this. Many of them are still hiring as well for the full or part of the summer.