POSITION SUMMARY:
The Camp Counselor plays a critical role in the successful operation of the Summer Camp program. The Camp Counselor is responsible for providing a safe and positive environment for school age children, to provide opportunities for learning, interaction and academic/personal growth.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
• Ensure the health, safety and well-being of participants in the program by providing appropriate supervision at all times. Understand, maintain, and ensure that participants follow safety procedures.
• Be an agent of safety for campers. This includes taking responsibility for one’s own well-being and the well-being of others. Assist with health-related concerns.
• Keep immediate supervisor informed daily of any concerns regarding participants, staff, or the facility.
• Plan and implement meaningful activities, lesson plans and special events that are structured, age- appropriate, fun, exciting, challenging, and values based in the areas of arts, STEM, character development, literacy, creative expression, community service, physical fitness and/or nutrition.
• Perform specific scheduled assignments, including but not limited to: swimming, arrival and/or departure, and lunch duty.
• Prepare the learning environment, lessons, and necessary supplies for program activities. Assume responsibility for the cleanliness and organization of the camp room, program supplies, and activity space.
• Support the planning and implementation of all camp activities, including but not limited to summer learning initiatives, field trips, in-camp events, and culminating performances.
• Provide support to Activity Specialists with activity implementation.
• Provide guidance and support to Counselors in Training (CITs), hold CITs accountable for program expectations, and complete and maintain all required CIT paperwork.
• Work cooperatively with all program staff.
• Promote an inclusive, welcoming, and respectful environment that embraces the diversity of all staff and participants.
• Create and maintain a strength-based, youth-focused atmosphere that is consistent and sensitive to the needs of participants with learning, emotional, or behavioral differences.
• Serve as a positive role model for participants.
• Maintain accurate program documentation (attendance, sign in/out forms, behavior reports, incident reports, and accident reports, as appropriate).
• Understand and communicate the YMCA’s core values and the goals of the Summer Camp program to staff, participants, and care givers.
• Develop and maintain positive relationships with parents and guardians through regular communication about their child’s strengths and areas of growth. Take a leadership role in providing regular updates (including Snapshots, behavior updates, success stories, etc.) to caregivers.
• Attend all required pre-camp trainings. Actively participate in training sessions, designated meetings and special events.
• Ensure that groups are in ratio.
• Ensure program, staff and patrons maintain hygiene habits/practices in accordance with CDC guidelines.
• Must be 18 years of age or older; high school diploma or equivalent required; college credits preferred.
• Minimum one year of experience working with youth, preferably in a Camp setting.
• Ability to relate to children and develop professional, positive relationships with youth.
• Child Abuse Prevention, Health and Safety from NYS OCFS within 30 days of hire.