ELIZABETH, Ill. – Northern Illinois 4-H is recruiting motivated and enthusiastic youth to serve as camp counselors for the 2027 Northern Illinois 4-H Camp, scheduled for June 6-10, 2027, at Rock River Christian Camp in Polo, Illinois.
Becoming a 4-H Camp Counselor gives young people the opportunity to develop leadership skills, build lasting friendships, and make a positive impact on younger campers. Counselors help lead activities and games, mentor campers, facilitate team-building experiences, and create unforgettable outdoor learning opportunities.
Youth ages 15-20 as of June 6, 2027, are encouraged to apply. Previous camp experience is not required, and 4-H membership is not necessary to participate. All selected counselors will receive comprehensive training to prepare them for success in their leadership role.
"Camp counselors are the heart of the camp experience," said Angela Miller, Extension Program Coordinator with University of Illinois Extension. "Whether you've attended camp before or are looking for a new opportunity to grow as a leader, serving as a camp counselor is a rewarding way to make a difference while gaining valuable life and workforce skills."
Interested applicants can learn more about the counselor role by attending a virtual Camp Counselor Q&A Session on October 20 from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Zoom. Participants may join at any time during the hour-long, come-and-go event to ask questions about camp, counselor responsibilities, training requirements, and the application process.
New counselor applicants must provide two references as part of their application. Applications are due November 1, 2026.
Northern Illinois 4-H Camp provides youth with opportunities to explore the outdoors, build confidence, discover independence, and create lifelong memories. Camp counselors play an essential role in helping campers have a safe, fun, and meaningful experience.
For more information or to apply, contact the Jo Daviess County Extension Office at 815-858-2273, the Whiteside County Extension Office at 815-632-3611, the Lee County Extension Office at 815-857-3525, or the Ogle County Extension Office at 815-732-2191.
University of Illinois Extension develops educational programs, extends knowledge, and builds partnerships to support people, communities, and their environments as part of the state's land-grant institution. Extension serves as the leading public outreach effort for University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences in all 102 Illinois counties through a network of 27 multi-county units and over 500 staff statewide. Extension’s mission is responsive to eight strategic priorities — community, economy, environment, food and agriculture, health, partnerships, technology and discovery, and workforce excellence — that are served through five program areas — 4-H youth development, agriculture and agribusiness, community and economic development, health and community wellness, and natural resources, environment, and energy.