YMCA-ICCP

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is ICCP? The YMCA International Camp Counselor Program (ICC) was established in 1959 and is a cultural exchange program recognized and authorized by the US government. ICCP recruits qualified counselors and camp staff from all over the world and places them according to preference and camp need.  ICCP works to internationalize participating camps and increase cross-cultural understanding, and provides on-going assistance to program participants and camps during the summer.

What is ICCP’s mission?  To be a leader in human development by providing YMCA values-based international programs that enhance the ability of camps, other organizations, and individual participants to meet the challenges of the global community.

How does ICCP recruit program applicants?    The strength of ICCP is having a team of committed individuals who do an amazing job of recruiting qualified applicants for the program year after year.  Recruiters have a tremendous responsibility on their hands.   The credibility and success of ICCP depends on how well recruiters do the selection of participants.  Most employers prefer a face to face interview with prospective staff.  So, when a camp decides to work with ICCP, it trusts we will do as good a job as they would do themselves.  ICCP places the same trust on our recruiters to select the best applicants.  Every year, ICCP works with more than 70 different recruiting organizations all over the world.  An ICCP recruiter is a YMCA in Spain; a Youth and Travel organization in Nepal, an Alumni group in Denmark, and an individual volunteer in Hungary, etc.  Our recruiters are as diverse as their own countries and cultures.

What are the features, advantages and benefits of recruiting for ICCP?  It’s an easy way to introduce your organization or services to young people who otherwise would not know about you; to expand your current programs or services; it does not require an investment of money; it’s an opportunity for students and young professionals in your country to expand their horizons; to be able to tap into a new segment in the market; to access other programs offered by the International YMCA; it’s fun; it gives prestige to your organization; it’s an easy way to recruit volunteers for your current programs; it’s an opportunity to develop new contacts in the U.S. and other countries; it allows you to be part of a worldwide recognized organization; to enhance your image in the community; it’s an investment in the future of your country –youth; to help create mutual cultural understanding; to promote positive social change.

What are the responsibilities of a recruiter?  Promote ICCP; distribute materials to prospective candidates; interpret the program, procedures, and all financial details; assist with the application process; interview and select applicants; collect application fees; submit applications to ICCP office in New York; convey placement information received from the New York office; arrange pre-departure orientation; evaluate the recruitment program, logistics of placement, travel, and conduct post-camp follow-up; maintain a positive relation with the American embassy in the home country.

Are recruiters employees of ICCP?    ICCP recruiters are volunteers, though some may be paid employees of their own organization. 

How do recruiters cover their costs?  Recruiters are authorized to charge an additional amount above the application fee to cover their recruitment and interviewing expenses.

What are recruiters provided with?  Recruiters receive all program materials, including applicant brochures and posters.  Recruiter fee collected from applicants. Opportunities to visit summer camps in the U.S., attend camping conferences during the year, attend arrival orientations, and visit our office. Access to ICCP’s website; access to placement information; ongoing communication throughout the year. Support services throughout the year.

What are the minimum requirements for ICCP applicants?      

What types of camps does ICCP work with?  Although ICCP is a YMCA program, it collaborates with many different types of camp. Types of camps include:

	OVERNIGHT - Located in rural areas away from the town and transportation.  Campers and staff live at the camp, experiencing a full schedule of activities during the day and sleeping in cabins or tents at night.
	Girl Scout Camps - Highly scheduled, for young girls, staff & campers live in platform tents.  Usually rustic accommodations.
	YMCA Camps - The YMCA is a Christian organization.  Although it does not promote any specific denomination, prayers and worship may be part of the camp's activities.
	DAY - Usually located in urban settings.  Campers arrive at camp each morning and return home in the afternoon.  The day is packed with activities.  In most cases, international staff lives with “host families”
	RELIGIOUS - Operated by Christian or Jewish organizations, these camps provide a broad range of outdoor activities within the framework of promoting positive life values.  Daily prayer, worship and Bible study are major camp activities.
	UNDERPRIVILEGED - Children may be referred by social service organizations are given the opportunity to experience positive, outdoor activities outside the urban environments in which they live.
	PHYSICALLY DISABLED - Children and adults with physical limitations are provided special attention and facilities making it possible for them to enjoy a range of camp activities.
	LEARNING DISABLED - Children and adults with learning disabilities are provided with special attention to help them achieve their fullest potential.