Summer Youth Development Counselor - YMCA Camp Dakani

Description:

Do you live the camp life? Are you the go-to S’mores expert in your friend group? Ready to take the first step in your camp career and grow as a cause-driven leader? If that sounds like you, it’s time to step into your adventure — apply today and join the team at YMCA CAMP DAKANI as a Summer Day Camp Youth Development Counselor.

YMCA CAMP DAKANI is a 50-acre outdoor adventure camp and retreat center dedicated to creating unforgettable experiences for youth all summer long. Our staff are the heart of camp — bringing energy, creativity, and care to every activity, every group, and every camper. As a member of our Summer Day Camp Staff team, you will help create a safe, inclusive, and uplifting environment where campers build confidence, form meaningful friendships, and discover their potential — all while experiencing the magic of camp.

We’re looking for leaders who:

Model our core values of Honesty, Caring, Respect, and Responsibility Bring a spirit of service and passion for youth development Show integrity, teamwork, and a willingness to grow Working at camp is more than a summer job — it’s a leadership lab. You’ll gain real-world skills in communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and leadership that will benefit you in any career path. Most importantly, you’ll end each day knowing you made a difference.

If you’re ready to be part of something bigger than yourself, work outdoors, and create life-changing moments for campers, this is your opportunity.

Being a counselor is challenging, energizing, and incredibly rewarding — and it just might be the best job you’ll ever love. Join us this summer and help create the magic at YMCA CAMP DAKANI.

Requirements:

OUR CULTURE:

Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality.

We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you. Our summer camp staff will help support the work we do at the YMCA, by helping create a positive, nurturing environments for all our campers and staff. They will also help each camper reach their fullest potential and deepen their connections as part of their overall camp experience.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Create a safe, welcoming, and engaging environment while supervising a group of children at all times.
• Lead activities that are fun, inclusive, culturally relevant, and developmentally appropriate, while reflecting YMCA values.
• Demonstrate dedication to your role, our campers, and the YMCA mission each day.

Practice emotional awareness and self-regulation in a fast-paced camp community.

• Ensure the safety and well-being of all campers, including hydration, sunscreen application, and general supervision.
• Follow all YMCA policies, procedures, and program standards, including those related to safety, cleanliness, child protection, medical situations, discipline, and emergencies.
• Build positive, supportive relationships with campers, parents, and fellow staff while modeling strong communication and relationship-building skills.

Always know the location and status of every camper in your group.

• Plan and lead engaging weekly activities and daily games for your group.
• Maintain camp spaces with pride through set-up, organization, and cleanliness — embracing the “It’s My Camp” mindset.

Take daily attendance and ensure proper sign-in and sign-out procedures are followed.

• Report all injuries, incidents, or concerns promptly to the Director or Coordinator.

Attend and actively participate in all required staff meetings and trainings. Serve as a team player and servant leader, contributing to the overall success and spirit of camp. Model YMCA character values — Honesty, Caring, Respect, and Responsibility — in every interaction. Bring energy, positivity, and camp spirit to each day… and most importantly, have fun creating camp magic!

CAUSE-DRIVEN LEADERSHIP® COMPETENCIES:

Values- Models and teaches the Y’s values. Inclusion- Champions inclusion activities, strategies, and initiatives. Relationships- Builds relationships to create small communities. Communication- Effectively tailors communications to the appropriate audience.

• Developing Others- Provides staff with feedback, coaching, guidance, and support.

Quality Results- Holds staff accountable for high-quality results using a formal process to measure progress.

Requirements:

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Must be at least 18 years of age. High school diploma or GED required. Passion for working with youth and a commitment to supporting the YMCA mission and philosophy. Current CPR, AED, and First Aid certifications (or ability to obtain upon hire). Complete Annual Compliance Training within 30 Days of hire date.

Experience in one or more of the following areas is preferred: outdoor skills, camping, archery, sports, recreational games, music, skits, or other youth program activities.:

A positive attitude, willingness to learn, and enthusiasm for working in a team-oriented camp environment.

COMPENSATION:

Starting Pay $12.00 per hour Additional pay for specialized certifications (ie; Lifeguard, ropes and more) Camp Staff Shirts are provided.

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Ability to plan, lead and participate in a range of activities in a variety of outdoor/indoor settings. Will require outdoor work during the summer months. May be required to lift up to 50 pounds.

More information on YMCA Camp Dakani: https://ymcaokc.org/camp-dakani/