Join the Adventure: Paddy Rossbach Youth Camp 2026!
Thinking of applying to be a Counselor for the 2026 summer?
The ideal Counselor is someone who can form meaningful connections with our campers and act as a safe, supportive mentor. Emotional intelligence, empathy, and the ability to build trust are key qualities we seek in candidates. Our ultimate goal is to provide campers with a safe and positive mentorship experience rooted in emotional connection and shared understanding.
Counselor Selection Rubric:
To help ensure the best possible experience for our campers, the Amputee Coalition selects counselors using the following criteria:
Age Demographic
Alignment with young adult age group to foster relatability and mentorship to our youth Campers.
Lived Experience with Limb Difference
Personal experience with limb loss or limb difference, offering valuable insight and relatability.
Culture Fit within the Camp Environment
Includes factors such as:
- Previous experience as a camper or counselor in good standing
- Relevant volunteer or leadership experience
- Alignment with Amputee Coalition Mission & Values - https://amputee-coalition.org/about-us/
Creativity and Thoughtfulness
Quality of responses to the "Tell Us More About Yourself" section of the application, showing self-awareness, motivation, and understanding of the counselor role.
We will close our counselor application process May 1st with notification of acceptance by May 8th.
Dive into an unforgettable experience at the Paddy Rossbach Youth Camp, happening July 26 – August 1, 2026, at the beautiful Camp Aranzazu in Rockport, Texas. Counselors will arrive on Sunday, July 26, with campers joining us on Monday, July 27 for a week filled with connection, adventure, and community.
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FAQs
Are siblings allowed at camp?
Camp is exclusively for young adults living with limb loss and limb difference. We do not currently admit any siblings or friends to attend camp alongside your child with limb loss or limb difference.
Parents allowed at camp? What is the parent policy & Commitment to Safety for camp?
I will be 18 or 19 years old at the time of camp: What does it mean to be a leader-in-training (LIT)?
The Leader In Training (LIT) program is a hands-on leadership development opportunity for teens who are preparing to become future Paddy Rossbach Youth Camp Counselors. LITs support camp operations under close supervision from staff, participate in counselor training, and begin learning how to lead activities, build camper relationships, and contribute to a positive, safe, and fun camp environment. This is a learning role intended to develop foundational skills in youth leadership, communication, responsibility, and teamwork. LITs are not responsible for supervising children independently but are valued as emerging leaders within the camp community.
How old do you have to be to be a counselor? & How do you choose your counselors from submitted applications?
Anyone 20+ may apply to be a camp counselor. We will close counselor applications on May 1st with notice of admittance by May 8th. We will run each applicant through a rubric process and fill slots based on the highest scoring applications — not all who apply will be selected as a counselor.
What is the role of a camp counselor?
Youth Camp Counselors play a critical leadership role in delivering a safe, inclusive, and impactful experience for youth at Paddy Rossbach Youth Camp. Counselors are responsible for the direct supervision, support, and guidance of campers, and for fostering an environment that promotes growth, confidence, independence, and friendship. This role requires maturity, compassion, excellent communication skills, and the ability to model the values of the Amputee Coalition at all times.
What is the Cell Phone & Social Media Policy for camp?
Zero Tolerance Drug & Alcohol Policy
What are the rules of camp?
What is the 2:1 rule at camp?
At our camp we follow the 2:1 Rule — Campers under 18 must always be with at least two adults (Counselors, LITs, AC Staff, or Camp Aranzazu Staff).
Unaccompanied Minors - Flying under the age of 15
Any campers 10–14 years of age will be booked directly with American Airlines' Unaccompanied Minor program so they will never be alone while traveling.
Are there any other ways Amputee Coalition works to make flying as safe as possible?
All campers and counselors will fly into Corpus Christi. Amputee Coalition staff will be stationed at both transfer hub airports to ensure your child is never alone, including during flight connections.
Can I fly with my child to camp?
Parents may choose to purchase their own airline ticket to travel with their child. Parents and guardians will say goodbye at the Corpus Christi airport, as only campers, counselors, and staff are permitted on the charter buses used to transport campers to camp.
Packing List
What is the dress code?
All counselors, campers, and AC staff are expected to dress in a manner that is respectful and appropriate for a camp environment. The following guidelines apply:
- Undergarments must not be visible.
- Clothing with offensive language, imagery, or references to alcohol/drugs is not permitted.
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