Youth Development Mentor (YDM) Camp L.E.A.P.

Are you passionate about working with young learners? Whether you’re a current or retired educator, a college student pursuing a degree in education, studying education, social work, or youth development, or someone who loves working with youth, Camp L.E.A.P. at Beacon House is the perfect opportunity to inspire, teach, and make a lasting impact this summer!

About Beacon & Camp L.E.A.P.

At Beacon House, we believe that every child deserves access to quality education and enrichment opportunities in a safe, nurturing environment. Located in the Edgewood neighborhood of Northeast Washington, DC, our mission is to close the education achievement gap and create brighter futures for students in Ward 5.

Camp L.E.A.P. (Learning, Enrichment, And Play!) is our engaging and dynamic summer program designed to combat the “summer slide”—the learning loss that can occur when school is out. Instead of losing academic skills, our campers experience a “summer rise” through exciting educational activities, hands-on projects, and creative enrichment experiences.

Why Join Us?

As a Summer Youth Development Mentor (YDM), you’ll be a role model, leader, and educator for a group of up to 10 students (elementary to middle school-aged). You’ll guide learning, spark curiosity, and foster social-emotional growth, all while making summer fun and meaningful.

This is an excellent opportunity for:

  • Retired teachers who want to continue making an impact in a flexible summer role.
  • Current educators looking for a rewarding way to engage with students beyond the classroom.
  • College students studying education, social work, or youth development who want hands-on experience and mentorship.

What You’ll Do

As a Summer Youth Development Mentor, your role will include:

Engaging with Students & Supporting Learning

  • Lead small group activities that build skills in reading, math, STEM, and the arts.
  • Create and lead fun, interactive enrichment activities like arts & crafts, and games.
  • Supervise and encourage students on field trips, including pool days.
  • Support community partners delivering specialized programming.

Mentoring & Youth Development

  • Build meaningful relationships with students and guide their social-emotional development.
  • Provide positive reinforcement and encourage students to develop confidence in their abilities.
  • Communicate with parents and caregivers about student progress and needs.

Organizing & Supporting Camp Operations

  • Maintain student attendance records and support program data collection.
  • Ensure the learning space is safe, organized, and welcoming.
  • Assist in evaluating program effectiveness and gather student feedback.
  • Attend team meetings, training, and professional development sessions.

What We’re Looking For

We welcome applicants from a variety of backgrounds who are excited to support students! Ideal candidates will have:

  • Experience working with youth (teaching, tutoring, mentoring, coaching, camp counseling, etc.).
  • A passion for education, child development, and community work.
  • Strong teamwork skills and a positive attitude.
  • Flexibility and creativity—summer learning should be engaging and FUN!
  • Strong communication skills to work with students, families, and colleagues.
  • Proficiency with basic technology (Microsoft Office, educational apps, etc.).

Minimum Requirements:

  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • At least 3 years of experience working with youth in a classroom, camp, or enrichment setting preferred.
  • Ability to lead and supervise a group of students safely and effectively.
  • Experience working with underserved communities is a plus!

Why Work with Us?

  • Make a difference in the lives of young learners.
  • Build hands-on experience in education and youth development.
  • Work in a positive, collaborative environment with like-minded mentors.

Typical Hours: Monday‐Friday 8:00am – 4:00pm, with occasional special programming outside of regular hours. Camp staff will work from June 23 through August 1, 2025. The week of June 23 is a required camp training week. You must be available for the entire duration.

The hourly rate for this position ranges from $19–$24 per hour. Will also take into consideration education, experience, and relevant qualifications.

If you’re excited to teach, mentor, and inspire this summer, we’d love to hear from you!

📩 Apply today to join the Camp L.E.A.P. team at Beacon House!