Counsellor – Exceptionality

Company Mission

Muskoka Woods is a Christian youth development organization that welcomes everyone to an experience for a lifetime. Located on the shores of beautiful Lake Rosseau, we specialize in summer camp, school trips, group retreats and leadership development for all ages. We exist to inspire youth to shape their world.

Job Description

The Program team is all about making sure our guests are thriving throughout the entire week at camp! Program is in charge of supervising guests in their cabins, at meal times, during free time and at evening programs.

At Muskoka Woods, we welcome a diverse range of guests and strive to create a safe, fun environment that builds confidence. The Exceptionality Program allows children and youth with special needs (including Autism Spectrum Disorder) to experience camp with the support they need for a successful week. We provide tailored assistance for each child’s physical, intellectual, social, or behavioural needs and integrate them into camp programming to the extent possible and appropriate, with guidance from our exceptionalities team.
The job of an Exceptionality Counsellor is to support and connect with our exceptionality guests. Exceptionality Counsellors provide care to assigned guests through check-ins and one-on-one support, ensuring our guests’ needs are not just met, but exceeded. That means being actively involved in their day – joining in on activities, offering encouragement, and lending a hand to our guests for their specific needs. Depending on the number of exceptionality guests on site, they may also be asked to help with other camp responsibilities which changes their weekly schedule. Flexibility and a team mindset are essential!

Staff are required to attend all meetings as outlined during staff training including Cadence and Small Group.

Skills and Attributes Required

Muskoka Woods is looking for staff whose personal values match the MW Core Values which includes having a passion for working with children and youth.

Exceptionality Program staff must be supportive, patient, creative problem solvers, have a heart to serve others, and have a love for those who need extra support. Experience and/or education within the Exceptionalities field is preferred. The ideal candidate is one who is committed to growing in their Christian faith and able to facilitate group conversations about Christian values and personal beliefs through Bible based teaching.

The preferred minimum age for Exceptionalities counsellors is 18.

Salary Range

$120 - $150 per week plus room and board

Full Summer Bonus

Each counsellor who commits their entire summer will qualify for a $300 bonus to be given at the end of the summer. Exceptions will apply for high school students & first year post-secondary school for Staff Week & Classic.

Contract Dates

June 19 - September 4, 2026

Essential Functions

  • Be able to help guests and staff in emergencies
  • Have the strength and endurance required to maintain constant supervision of guests and/or staff
  • Have the ability to travel around camp with guests
  • Join in on activities for 6 to 8 hours a day
  • Lead both small and large group activities
  • Communicate clearly and effectively with staff and guests

Additional Notes

  • All staff are required to uphold the Muskoka Woods Vision and Mission, Core Values and Aspirations, as well as all policies and procedures as outlined during our Staff Development Week held at the beginning of your contract.
  • All Counsellors stay in a cabin with our guests. All other staff stay in shared staff accommodation.
  • All Staff are required to live on property in Rosseau, Ontario for the duration of their contract.

Apply now via Muskoka Woods' online application process. You'll need to create an account (or use a previously created one) and apply online.