Posting: 2026 Job Opening
~ Leader for Summer 2026 Mississippi River Leadership Camps ~
Contact Shannon McMulkin Board Member, Lower Mississippi River Foundation 870-753-8954, smcmulkin@gmail.com Summary The Lower Mississippi River Foundation (LMRF) is seeking a candidate to plan and execute the Mississippi River Summer Leadership Camps for the summer of 2026. Recruitment begins in January 2026. The Mississippi Summer Leadership Camps are 4-day long, immersive programs for high school students that focus on outdoor survival skills, wilderness ethics, personal development, and leadership. The Summer Camp Director would be responsible for recruiting students, planning summer camp programming, and leading each camp of 10-15 students + adult volunteers. Focused on communities in Arkansas, Mississippi and Tennessee, but open to any others from the states along the Lower Mississippi River.
About the Organization The mission of LMRF is to promote stewardship of the Mississippi River through deep engagement. The organization is focused on providing in-depth opportunities for people to interact with the Mississippi River and develop a sense of connection to the natural world. About the Mississippi River Summer Leadership Camp The Leadership Camp began in 2018 in partnership with Quapaw Canoe Company (QCC). Students travel in voyager canoes on the Mississippi River for 4 days, camping each night on islands along the river. Students learn how to paddle a canoe as well as outdoor skills needed for camping. QCC provides experienced guides & all equipment. QCC staff also lead students through learning tasks like setting up tents, starting a fire and maintaining a canoe. The role of the LMRF Camp Director on the trip is primarily to provide structure to the day, and support to students as they face new challenges. 2026 Timeline - The Camp Director would begin recruiting students as soon as possible and continue recruitment efforts until the camps begin. The Camp Director would run the camps in late May and early June. Tentative dates for 2026 are May 25th-28th and June 1st-4th. The Camp Director would be expected to provide a final report to the board after the end of the season. Key Responsibilities Recruit students to join the camps Communicate with students and parents prior to the trips Coordinate with Quapaw Canoe Company about details and itinerary for the trips Facilitate group activities during each camp Support students needs when challenges arise Prepare final reports on spending, student number & suggestions for next year Compensation and Benefits (negotiable) $1000 guaranteed payment for recruitment efforts $1500 for each camp that has at least 10 participants $4000 total for two camps and recruitment
Lower Mississippi River Dispatch No. 1010
Since 1995 ~ “Voice of the Lower Mississippi River”
Quapaw Canoe Company, Clarksdale, Mississippi
Summer Camp is an incredible opportunity for kids to connect and learn the value of River systems. They learn to challenge themselves and step out of their comfort zone, which is an important lesson in their development as young adults growing into adulthood. They feel safe on the River giving them the chance to be themselves and gain confidence to chase their dreams without the unfortunate issues in society, which derail them from concentrating on their future. The Mississippi River provides protection and safety, allowing the inner being to thrive at its highest level. This trip is perfect for individuals looking for purpose and passion in their lives. This is the best summer camp in the Delta with incredible mentors and guides, providing invaluable attention and teachable moments needed to nurture our future leaders of society. Mark River- Camp Leader