In order to be a counselor you must be at least 16 years old for Little Shots Day Camp, 18 years for Middle Shots Resident Camp, and 21 years old for Big Shots Resident Camp. All camp staff who come into contact with our campers must undergo a background check and drug screen.

NEW 2024: Due to increased interest we will allow a select group to be Early Admission Resident Counselors (EARC) at 17 years old (Middle) or 20 years old (Big). In order to qualify for this opportunity, interested applicants must submit by April 15, 2024:

• One (1) Letter of Recommendation testifying your ability to work well with kids and young adults, how you overcome stressful situations, and detailing their confidence level in your independent leadership skills. This letter must come from someone outside of Diabetes Youth Services that is not a relative or friend.
• Volunteer at at least one (1) DYS Family Program prior to Hot Shots Camp.
• Submit a short essay (at least 2 pages, double spaced 12pt. font) answering:
  • Why are you interested in becoming an Early Admission Resident Counselor (EARC)?
  • What skills do you bring to Hot Shots Camp?
  • Tell about one time you encountered a stressful situation and how you handled it.
  • Your leadership and organizational style(s).

OR

After August 2024, those interested can:

• Attend Connect Leadership Retreat, a 2.5 day retreat scheduled for November 1-3, 2024.
• Submit one (1) Letter of Recommendation, details listed in first bullet above.

Please note your submissions do not guarantee a spot as an EARC, and DYS reserves the right to rescind any offer made if full time DYS Staff see fit.