INCLUSION SUPPORT SUMMER COUNSELOR - GENERAL FUNCTION:
To ensure the overall safety of assigned campers as well as the other campers in the group. To provide support for those campers with individual challenges/needs. Encourage inclusion within designated camp groups and offer adaptations/interventions as needed. Report daily camper activities to the Special Cares Counselor coordinator and family/caregivers.
INCLUSION SUPPORT SUMMER COUNSELOR - KNOW-HOW:
- Must be at least 16 years of age, 18 years of age and over preferred.
- Previous camp experience and/or related experience with children with diverse abilities.
- Studying or Degree in Education, Special Education, Psychology or related field
- Related experience with children with special needs.
INCLUSION SUPPORT SUMMER COUNSELOR - PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES:
- To be a role model throughout every camp day by instilling the YMCA Four Core values of Honesty, Respect, Responsibility and Caring.
- Arrive at camp 30 minutes before camp day begins and remain 15 minutes after the assigned camp day ends (unless otherwise requested by Camp Director).
- Attend all camp staff meetings.
- Always aim for inclusion while conducting own alternative activities, assisting counselor/specialists in daily in all camp activities including, but not limited to: aquatic instruction, , free swim, arts & crafts, games, storytelling, singing, family picnics, and special events.
- Plan and implement modified/diversified programs for campers, keeping in mind their needs, interests, and ability level.
- Continually assess campers’ needs and implement adapted schedules, transition cues and breaks as needed.
- Maintain a structured and safe environment for campers.
- Demonstrate proper attitude and enthusiasm towards camp and encourage participation in activities.
- Supervision of and responsibility for: camper(s) with special needs first as assigned to you as well as the other campers in your group when applicable.
- Help foster the intellectual, social, and physical growth of campers by providing a meaningful and enjoyable camp experience.
- Conduct own and/or assist camp staff in planning group, unit and camp activities.
- Care and proper storage of all equipment and supplies.
- Maintain open communication with parents, campers and all staff members at all times.
- Report any behavior challenges to the Director of Inclusion Support and Camp Director who will assist in reporting to parents.
- Set a good example to campers by respecting rules, showing respect for the outdoors and dressing appropriately.
- Participate in all AM & PM assembly, songs, games, activities, etc.
- Assist and attend family nights and special events.
- Perform other duties as designated by the supervisor.
- Job Description may be changed at any time by supervisor.
INCLUSION SUPPORT SUMMER COUNSELOR -PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to: climb, kneel, reach, push, swim, balance, crouch, stand, pull, grasp, repetitive motions, navigate stairs, stoop, crawl, walk, lift, talk, hear, and sit.
- The employee may occasionally need to exercise these physical labor demands: exerting up to 2060 pounds of force occasionally.
- Specific vision abilities required by this job include: close/far vision, ability to adjust focus, peripheral vision, depth perception, and field of vision.
- Acute hearing is essential to this position.
INCLUSION SUPPORT SUMMER COUNSELOR -WORK ENVIRONMENT:
In this position, this person will be frequently required to work in outside-weather conditions.
- While performing the duties of this job, this individual may occasionally be exposed to outdoor weather conditions, extreme heat/cold, wet and/or humid environments, and moderate noise.
INCLUSION SUPPORT SUMMER COUNSELOR - EFFECT ON END RESULT:
- Campers will be included in full camp experience to the best of their ability.
- Campers will increase their knowledge and skills of specific sports and games.
- Campers will be exposed to the four core values of Honesty, Respect, Responsibilities, and Caring.
- Campers will enjoy constructive activities that instill teamwork and fair play for the duration of each camp period.
