Camp Counselor

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.