Counselor Applications for Catholic Youth Camp Now Available

by Diocese of Des Moines | January 7, 2026

Catholic Youth Camp is a faith driven and fun filled summer camp offered to youth of all backgrounds. For eleven amazing individual weeks, over 1600 kids will come to camp to rock climb, zip line, canoe, swim, dance, sing, pray, and worship.

During that time, around 150 high school to college-aged young adults volunteer to counsel for a week at CYC. Our counselors love their faith and share a desire to serve our campers. They also happen to be the goofiest people we know, enjoy spontaneous dance parties, and are not afraid to step outside their comfort zone.

Each week, counselors are responsible for a lot of the FUN that happens at CYC. Counselors help run many of Catholic Youth Camp’s daily events. Depending on the week you may host a talent show, put on an archery competition, or lead songs around the campfire. Counselors also help facilitate some of our outdoor activities, including: archery, our confidence course, and gaga ball! You'll be teamed up with our summer staff to lead a cabin of around twenty campers as they encounter Christ throughout the week!

You must be 16 years old by May 1st, 2026 to counsel at CYC. All applicants under the age of 18 must have their parent or guardian present to review and sign our Waivers and Agreements section. Applications must be submitted by March 27th, 2026.

Learn more and apply at stmcenter.com/counselors.