Help create the kind of world every child deserves to experience.
For one unforgettable week each summer, Camp Starlight creates a place where young people impacted by HIV/AIDS and LGBTQIA+ youth can experience friendship, adventure, joy, belonging, and the freedom to simply be themselves. Our volunteers make that possible.
Since 1999, generations of volunteers have given their time, energy, talents, and hearts to create the Camp Starlight experience. What they share is a commitment to helping every camper know: You belong here.
Camp is for the campers
Volunteering at Camp Starlight is incredibly fun, but it is also meaningful work. Campers are at the center of everything we do. That means showing up with patience, flexibility, kindness, healthy boundaries, and a willingness to participate fully. It may mean singing the song, wearing the costume, encouraging a camper to try something new, or sitting quietly beside someone who needs a moment. The days can be long. The impact can last far beyond the week.
What volunteering looks like
Cabin Counselors - Help create the heart of the Camp experience through supervision, encouragement, connection, and fun.
Program & Activity Volunteers - Bring Camp to life through recreation, arts, nature, games, music, swimming, and special events.
Health, Mental Health & Camper Support - Qualified professionals support the physical, emotional, and developmental needs of campers.
Operations & Support - Help with the many behind-the-scenes details that make Camp possible.
Who we’re looking for
Great Camp Starlight volunteers come from many backgrounds, professions, identities, and life experiences. We are looking for people who are kind, dependable, flexible, collaborative, open to learning, committed to affirming young people, and ready to put campers' needs first. Experience working with children or teens is valuable, but it is not the only thing that makes someone a great volunteer.
We’ll help you arrive ready
Volunteers receive preparation and training about our mission, HIV/AIDS, LGBTQIA+ identities, neurodiversity, camper safety, expectations, and Camp Starlight culture. Once Camp begins, volunteers are supported by experienced leaders and fellow volunteers. We ask a lot because our campers deserve our best - and we believe our volunteers deserve preparation, support, and community.
You may come for the campers. Camp may change you, too
"Campers were shown how the world could be if acceptance and love were the defaults." That sentiment from a 2026 volunteer captures what makes Camp Starlight special. Volunteers described Camp as joyful, meaningful, accepting, magical, and life-changing - a place where campers and adults alike experience connection, community, and belonging.
Ready to make some camp magic?
One week can make a difference that lasts far beyond summer. Come ready to work hard, laugh often, learn, and make a difference.