Lead a delegation or Staff a camp
Being a leader to a delegation of children at a camp abroad or help staff a camp locally, and you’ll not only help enrich their lives, but your own as well! By the end of the camp you will have met many exciting CISV volunteers and children from around the world, and made friendships for life.
You will be part of a team of committed, like-minded volunteers working to create an unforgettable experience for the children or young people in your care. Additionally, you will have the support and leadership of our highly experienced staff. As a leader or staff, you will help children and young people develop the skills, knowledge, and attitudes they need to take a positive, active role in their local and global community. In your role, you’ll guide them as they build friendships, have fun, and learn from you and each other.
While the Leaders and Staff focus much of their energy on enriching the children’s experience during the day, the late-evening hours provide time for them to have their own CISV experience. After hours, activities are often arranged to enhance cultural understanding among the twenty or more adults who facilitate the program for the children. Just like the children, the adult Leaders and Staff form lasting friendships with their colleagues from around the world.
About you
You are aged 21 or over and have a positive and open attitude towards cultures other than your own. You enjoy working with youth from the ages of 11 to 17. You know that learning is a life-long process and that you can gain as much from the CISV experience as our programme participants. You value teamwork and want to promote peace, equality, and justice. Lastly, you share our belief that we can all play our part in making the world a better place.
Requirements:You will be free to travel and able to commit to 2 to 4 weeks in a residential camp and the essential training and preparation needed beforehand. You have a valid criminal record check and basic first aid training (CISV Victoria can help you obtain these). You have a valid passport (for camps outside of Canada).
Qualifications:
- Age 21+ by the start of camp (except for Junior Staff who can be age 18-20).
- Completed CISV safeguard training (provided) before the commencement of camp.
- Completed Criminal Record Check before the commencement of camp.
- Demonstrated leadership experience within CISV or similar organizations.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
- Commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive camp community.
We offer you
While becoming a Leader or Staff is a volunteer position, it pays off by gaining international leadership skills, boosting your resume and career prospects. Most of all, you’ll gain an amazing life experience in a fun, supportive, inter-cultural environment. You’ll receive full training, that is partly online and self-paced, and partly in real life with other aspiring Leaders and Staff.
- Child safeguarding training (self-paced, e-learning course)
- Local leadership training provided by our Local Leadership Trainer and Risk Manager (periodically, as you get ready for your programme)
- National leadership training provided by CISV Canada’s National Leadership Training Committee (over the May long weekend with other Leaders/Staff from Canadian chapters)
Leader or staff: what’s the difference?
Leaders
Who can be a leader?
Our programs for under-16s are accompanied by volunteer adults. Each delegation of 4 children / teenagers is looked after by such a “leader”. They must be at least 21 years old. There is no age limit to the top. There are no costs for you, but we do not pay any fees, but we are happy to issue a certificate.
About Being a Leader
Leaders are responsible for the wellbeing, learning, and the overall experience of their delegation. As a Leader, you’re the mentor, guide, and anchor for a delegation of young participants. You’re not just accompanying them; you’re helping them grow, reflect, and thrive in a global learning experience.
- Be a trusted guide through a transformative experience.
- Learn how to lead with empathy, communicate across cultures, and manage group dynamics.
- Form deep bonds with your delegation and fellow volunteers.
- Experience peace education in action and help others do the same.
You’re the one the delegates turn to for guidance, support, and encouragement. You’ll participate fully in the Programme while also ensuring your group is safe, engaged, and growing. For the duration of the camp, you are the link between the children and their parents or caregivers. You are the adult the children turn to in time of need. In order to keep the children focused on the camp, all communication between them and their respective parents/caregivers goes through you.
It’s mentorship with meaning: You’ll help young people discover themselves and the world.
It’s leadership with heart: You’ll model empathy, responsibility, and cultural awareness.
It’s a journey for you too: Many Leaders say they learn as much as their participants.
Responsibilities of a Leader
Ensure the safety and wellbeing of your delegation: You’ll be responsible for the physical and emotional care of your group throughout the camp.
Support participants emotionally and logistically throughout the camp: You’ll help them navigate challenges, celebrate successes, and stay engaged.
Participate in activities and contribute to the educational goals: You’ll be an active part of the camp, modeling curiosity, cooperation, and reflection.
Communicate with staff, other Leaders, and families: You’ll keep lines of communication open to ensure your delegation is supported and informed.
Be a role model of CISV values: You’ll embody inclusiveness, enthusiasm, and respect — showing participants what leadership with heart looks like.
Each programme level has different levels of Leader involvement…
- In a Village, the team of leaders, along with the Junior Counselors, carry out the day-to-day program of the camp. They plan the activities and shape the experience for the 11 year old participants.
- In a Youth Meeting, the leaders plan and guide the participants in their program theme and activities.
- In a Step Up program, the leader’s role is more akin to that of a facilitator, as the participants themselves plan the camp’s activities with the guidance of the adult leaders.
Does this sound like you?
- You care deeply about youth development
- You’re patient, responsible, and emotionally intelligent
- You’re ready to lead with empathy and show up with heart
- You want to make a difference, one experience at a time
Being a CISV Leader is like being a coach, counselor, and cultural ambassador all at once. You’ll walk away with skills in mentorship, emotional intelligence, intercultural communication, and group facilitation — all of which translate into careers in education, psychology, social work, and leadership roles across sectors.
Camp Staff
Who can be staff?
All adult staff in an international programme must be at least 21 years old and a member of a CISV Association, with a minimum of one staff member in each team who is at least 25 years old. Provided other requirements are fulfilled, junior staff (aged 18+) may be able to take part if they are from the host National Association.
About being a Camp Staff
As Camp Staff, you’re the soul of the experience, the ones who make the magic happen behind the scenes and in the moments that matter. You’re not just supporting the camp; you’re shaping how it feels.
- Help create a safe, joyful space for learning and connection.
- Develop skills in teamwork, logistics, and leadership, all while having fun.
- From late-night planning to spontaneous dance parties, you’ll be part of the heartbeat of camp life.
- Work with volunteers from around the world who share your values.
You’re the ones who set up, clean up, cheer up, and show up: every day. Whether it’s organizing activities, supporting leaders, or making sure meals run smoothly, you’re the heroes who make the experience unforgettable.
It’s service with soul: You’ll give your time and energy to something that truly matters.
It’s teamwork at its best: You’ll collaborate, problem-solve and celebrate together.
It’s a chance to lead from behind: You’ll learn how to support others while growing your own confidence.
Responsibilities of a Camp Staff
Support the daily operations of the camp: You’ll help with everything from setting up activities to managing supplies and keeping the camp running smoothly.
Assist with logistics, meals, and activity setup: You’ll be hands-on in making sure the camp environment is ready, welcoming, and well-organised.
Be a positive presence for participants and leaders: You’ll bring energy, encouragement, and care to everyone you interact with.
Help maintain a safe and inclusive environment: You’ll contribute to a space where everyone feels respected, supported, and safe.
Jump in wherever needed, with energy and care: Flexibility is key. You’ll be ready to help wherever your support is needed most.
A more detailed list of responsibilities includes…
- Camp Preparation:
- Assist in planning and organizing camp activities, workshops, and events.
- Collaborate with other staff members to ensure the smooth running of the camp.
- Familiarize yourself with CISV’s mission, values, and educational approach.
- Participant Support:
- Provide support and guidance to participants, ensuring they feel included and valued.
- Foster a supportive and inclusive environment where campers feel comfortable expressing themselves.
- Address any conflicts or issues that may arise among participants, promoting positive communication and resolution.
- Safety and Well-being:
- Ensure the safety and security of all campers at all times.
- Adhere to CISV Canada’s safety protocols and emergency procedures.
- Monitor the physical and emotional well-being of participants, providing assistance and support as needed.
- Facilitation and Leadership:
- Facilitate group discussions, activities, and workshops according to CISV’s educational principles.
- Serve as a role model for campers, demonstrating leadership, empathy, and inclusivity.
- Encourage participation and engagement among campers, helping them develop teamwork and leadership skills.
- Logistics and Administration:
- Assist with logistical tasks such as meal preparation, cleaning, and maintenance of camp facilities.
- Maintain accurate records of attendance, incidents, and any relevant information.
- Communicate effectively with camp coordinators, fellow staff members, and volunteers.
- Personal Development:
- Take advantage of opportunities for personal and professional growth through training, feedback, and reflection.
- Embrace the principles of experiential learning and continuous improvement.
- Actively contribute to the camp community and strive to make a positive impact on participants’ lives.
Does this sound like you?
- You love being part of a team
- You’re reliable, flexible, and full of positive energy
- You care about creating meaningful experiences for others
- You’re ready to work hard… and laugh harder
Being Camp Staff is like being the backstage crew of a life-changing show. You’ll walk away with skills in teamwork, adaptability, event coordination, and emotional intelligence — all of which translate into roles in hospitality, education, nonprofit work, and beyond.
Open Positions
Leaders
We have filled all our Leader positions for 2026. If you are interested in leading a delegation with CISV in the future, send an email to Beth & Amy at programmes@cisvvictoria.ca and they will reach out to you when we open applications for Leaders for the next programme season.
Staff
CISV Canada is looking for Staff for all of its 2026 programmes. Staff travel to and from camp is completely funded by CISV and can be extended either before or after camp if staff members would like to be in the city for longer (extended accommodation is not provided). Once selected to staff, travel will be booked as soon as possible.
- Village: July 24 - August 20, hosted by CISV Ottawa. Contact: info@cisvottawa.ca to apply.
- Youth Meeting: July 11 - July 25, hosted by CISV Victoria. If you're interested in becoming a Staff, Junior Staff, or Camp Director for our camp, please fill out this application form and return it by email to Beth & Amy at programmes@cisvvictoria.ca by January 4, 2026. Interviews will be scheduled for early January.
- Step Up: July 3 - July 25, hosted by CISV Montréal-St Grégoire. Contact: infocisvmontreal@gmail.com to apply.
- Seminar: July 19 - August 8, hosted by CISV Toronto. Contact: leadership@cisvtoronto.org to apply.
- National Camp: July 12 - July 25, hosted by CISV Canada's Junior Branch, in Waterloo. Apply here, and contact njr@ca.cisv.org for more information.
International Positions
Find out about any current international programme staff opportunities by going to international programme staff opportunities. All international programme staff members must be members of a CISV Association and be at least 21 years of age. Before a Chapter/National Association appoints an international staff member, they are required to contact the candidate’s home CISV Association. For any members of CISV Canada who staff internationally, they are required to staff at least one international programme within Canada before they will be approved to staff in another country.