Tired of the same old boring job during the summer? Looking for a program to challenge you and lift you out of your comfort zone? The CCUSA Camp Counselor Russia program may be just what you need. For thirteen years, we have offered this adventurous, challenging program to those who want to work as a counselor in a Russian summer youth camp for four to eight weeks from June through August.

Summer Camp - A Great Russian Tradition

Every summer thousands of children head off for camps across Russia, from the shores of Lake Baikal to the beaches of the Black Sea. Each camp has its own philosophy, but all provide children a place to relax while having fun in an outdoor setting. In many ways, these camps resemble those in the United States and Canada. They are usually located in rural settings, miles away from the nearest town. Typically, a camp will have a large dining hall, crafts and sports buildings and dormitories. Children usually come for sessions lasting 10 to 28 days. Many camp activities take place in the beautiful Russian countryside, often by a lake or river, which provides a glorious setting for swimming, boating and canoeing. Other activities may include theater, land sports, arts, crafts, dance, performing arts and teaching.

Work with Russian Children

We offer two positions in our Russia Program: Camp Counselor or English/American Culture Instructor. You receive free room and board throughout the program. These are considered volunteer positions because you are paid the same as your fellow Russian counselors, which may only work out to be a very small stipend. You may indicate at your interview if you would prefer one position over the other.

The Russian Counselor

As a counselor, you are a teacher, a leader and a friend to a group of children between the ages of 8 and 16. You are responsible for the safety and well being of your campers and for giving them the time of their lives! You spend most of the day outdoors. All counselors perform a wide variety of duties and each day brings something new. It's a challenge and one of the most rewarding things you will ever do. By the end of the summer, you will have discovered a lot about Russian culture and yourself.

English/Culture Instructor

As a English/Culture instructor, you will be teaching English language classes every day to different classes. In these classes, you will be expected to incorporate cultural lessons about your own culture.

This Program is NOT for everyone!

Life as a counselor in Russia is not an easy job. The hours are long and Russian children keep you busy around the clock. You will teach them, eat with them, field their inquisitive questions and even share living accommodations with them. You will be required to adapt to unfamiliar customs, traditions and approaches to the summer camp model. Be strongly advised that this program is rigorous. You may experience culture shock and physical stress due to changes in diet and other factors specific to the climate and location of each camp. This is not a holiday, but with the right attitude it can be the most rewarding experience of your life.