About Ramapo For Children

Founded in 1922, Ramapo for Children works on behalf of young people whose challenging behaviors put them at risk of being relegated to the margins of their families, schools and communities. Ramapo’s philosophy is built around the simple belief that all people want the same things: to learn, to be valued for who they are, and to experience success. Our work is accomplished through four primary programs:

• Camp Ramapo: a residential summer camp in Rhinebeck, NY that serves over 550 children with a range of cognitive disabilities and behavioral challenges. Camp Ramapo also serves as a training ground for over 200 college and graduate students each year.
• Ramapo Training: a professional development program providing tens of thousands of educators, parents, and youth workers with practical tools for managing difficult behaviors and fostering environments that support success. 
• The Staff Assistant Experience (SAE): a transition-to-independence program for young adults aged 18 to 25 with social, emotional, or learning challenges. Participants practice vocational and life skills in an inclusive residential community.
• Ramapo Retreats: short-term, adventure-based experiences for young people and educators that give participants strategies for successful communication, teamwork, and leadership.

Why Work here

As a Camp Ramapo counselor, you’ll benefit from:

• Intensive, evidence-informed training on our Ramapo Approach, which is sought out by educators, school leaders, youth workers and caregivers around the world
• Daily interaction with children who face varying degrees of social, emotional and learning challenges
• A network of people within Ramapo for Children’s community, which includes year-round staff members, trainers, board members and counselor alumni, many of whom have gone on to pursue careers in education, social work and psychology
• Free room and board on our 250-acre campus plus summer stipend and travel reimbursement 
• Up to six credits through an on-site college course, “Fieldwork in Special Education”
  

Ramapo for Children takes camper and staff health seriously. Our safety protocols will continue to be guided by recommendations from the CDC and our local Department of Health. Ramapo will remain a place for campers and staff to learn and grow in a safe environment.