Sunrise Day Camp – Staten Island, for children ages 3 1/2 – 16, is the only dedicated full summer day camp in the world for children with cancer and their siblings . It is a camp designed to meet the emotional, social, recreational and physical needs of these children while allowing them to enjoy the comforts and safety of their own homes at night.
Sunrise Day Camp offers a full, multi-week summer activity program plus year- round camp-like programs. These additional programs take place at our campgrounds and other locations that provide exclusive use of their facilities.
Best of all, Sunrise Day Camp is offered free of charge to all children being treated for cancer and their siblings on a non-sectarian basis. By raising the needed funds from outside sources instead of charging the parents, we can help to alleviate some of the costs, and the related stress, that parents incur caring for a sick child throughout the year.
Sunrise Day Camp is actively hiring individuals aged 18 years and older to take part in a magical summer experience for our campers. We are looking for individuals who are mature, responsible, energetic, and excited to make a tremendous impact in the lives of our children.
Sunrise Day Camp is actively seeking a Dance Specialist for the 2026 Summer. Our staff works with children between the ages of 3 1/2 and 16 for up to seven weeks. Staff positions commonly involve being with children for the full length of the camp day, from camper arrival at 8:30 in the morning until 4:00 in the afternoon. Because our camper population may have greater emotional and physical needs, and because staff stays in close proximity with the campers, the experience is demanding. It is critical that staff members are attentive to children, their individual needs and concerns, and demonstrate a willingness to do more than his or her share. Transportation can be provided.
This year’s camp season runs from Monday, June 29th to Friday, August 14th, 2026. There are mandatory orientations/trainings throughout the month of June (dates TBD).
Responsibilities
- Create daily lesson plans for a variety of dance and movement activities, including but not limited to creative movement, dance games, simple routines, and rhythm-based exercises.
- Ensure all activities are age-appropriate, safe, and designed to enhance campers’ physical abilities, creativity, and self-expression.
- Incorporate self-esteem building activities and emphasize positive group participation, teamwork, and respect.
- Recommend and assist in planning dance or movement-based activities for camp-wide events such as talent shows, spirit days, or Color War.
- Collaborate with the Assistant Director to execute approved events and ensure integration of movement activities into the overall camp program.
- Ensure that all equipment and program areas are used properly and maintained according to safety guidelines and cleanliness standards.
- Engage with campers to encourage active participation and enjoyment, providing positive reinforcement and adapting activities to meet individual needs.
Skills
- Comprehensive understanding of dance and teaching techniques.
- Strong ability to lead groups of children in organized dance and movement activities while maintaining discipline and order.
- Innovative in creating fun, engaging, and developmentally appropriate dance programs.
- Ability to recognize potential safety hazards and implement preventative measures.
- Effective communication with campers and staff.
- Strong teamwork and collaboration skills.
- Proficiency in handling conflicts and ensuring a positive and inclusive environment.
- High energy level, enthusiasm for working with children, and a positive role model.
Sunrise operates 10 camps in the United States: Long Island (NY), Pearl River (NY), Staten Island (NY), Philadelphia (PA), Chicago (IL), Orange County (CA), Fort Lauderdale (FL); Horizon Day Camp in Baltimore (MD), Metro DC; and Aurora Day Camp in Atlanta (GA).