Special Needs Weekend Respite Staff

Respite counselors will supervise and assist daily needs of campers with disabilities (including feeding, showering, toileting, & dressing). Lead daily activities: arts & crafts, games, dance, music, water, nature, and evening programs. Act in a responsible manner while employed, on and off campgrounds, to set a proper example. Work in collaboration with other staff to make the respites rewarding, challenging and safe experience for all. Programs are camp-related. Staff will work long hours providing the campers with fantastic experiences. Staff are expected to participate in all activities with the campers which may include: riding on pontoon boats, canoeing, swimming in the lake, playing outdoor games, hiking, and crafts. This is a live-in position with staff members required to live in a cabin with campers. This position requires leadership by example.

Staff will be paid $200 per Respite Weekend.

Qualifications:
1. Must be at least 17 years of age.
2. Experience and/or training in youth work.
3. Must display an overall willingness to do what needs to be done with a positive attitude to provide the best experience possible for our campers.
4. Must be able to multi task and have excellent organizational skills.
5. Must be able to demonstrate YMCA values: caring, honesty, respect, responsibility, and faith.
6. Staff are expected to obtain CPR, & First Aid Certifications at the earliest training possible.

Essential Functions:
1. Live with a cabin group and help each camper adjust and grow with other campers.
2. Assist in developing individual camper’s independence, self-esteem, and peer relationships in the respite camping environment.
3. Design/lead activities that are safe, fun and promote cabin unity.
4. Organize campers for cabin clean up and camp improvement duties.
5. Arrive on time.
6. Interpret safety and health rules, as well as other camp policies, to campers.
7. Actively participate in all activities including waterfront, evening programs, & special events.
8. Use behavior management techniques as outlined in the policy and procedure handbook.
9. Evaluate camp program and provide input in to support staff and directors.
10. Abide by mandatory reporting policies, as described in the policy and procedure handbook.
11. Ensures proper maintenance and upkeep of camp grounds and facilities, reporting any maintenance concerns to the Program Director.
12. Provide the extra needed medical and personal attention required by campers with disabilities.
13. Offer enthusiasm for camp life and programs.
14. Other duties as assigned by the Program Director or staff leaders.

Salary : $200