What are the responsibilities and job description for the Special Needs Camp Coordinator position at Camp Wightman Camping & Conference Center?
Special Needs Program Coordinator – Summer 2025Camp Wightman | Griswold, CT
About Camp Wightman: Nestled on 270 acres of scenic land in Griswold, CT, Camp Wightman is a year-round Christian camp and conference center offering a variety of facilities, including retreat centers, cabin villages, lodges, a dining hall, and several outbuildings. Our residential camp serves both traditional and special needs campers through a robust summer camp program, as well as hosting retreat groups throughout the year. At Camp Wightman, we provide an environment where children, families, and groups can relax, grow, and connect with nature, all within the framework of Christian values and teachings.
Position Overview: Camp Wightman is seeking a compassionate and organized Special Needs Coordinator for four weeks of our special needs camp during the summer of 2025. This role is crucial in ensuring that our special needs campers have a safe, inclusive, and enriching camp experience. The Special Needs Coordinator will work closely with camp leadership, counselors, and families to provide tailored support to campers with varying abilities and needs.
For those interested, the Special Needs Coordinator can also choose to work full-time for the entire summer (June 16th - August 17th), assisting with other camp programs and activities in addition to their special needs responsibilities. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals who wish to gain broader experience in camp leadership and programming.
Key Responsibilities:
- Implement individualized care plans for special needs campers in collaboration with camp leadership and medical staff.
- Supervise and support special needs counselors to ensure high-quality care and a positive camper experience.
- At Sunday Check-In meet parents/guardians to understand campers' specific needs and preferences prior to the start of the camp session.
- Guide staff in inclusive practices, behavior management, and safety protocols related to special needs campers.
- Ensure that the camp environment, activities, and facilities are fully accessible and adapted to meet the needs of all special needs campers.
- Monitor the progress of campers and adjust support strategies as necessary to maximize camper participation and enjoyment.
- Foster an inclusive, supportive, and positive atmosphere where campers feel valued, respected, and empowered.
- Collaborate with the Camp Director and Program Director to integrate special needs programming into the overall camp schedule.
Qualifications:
- Experience working with special needs young adults or adults, preferably in a camp or recreational setting.
- Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
- Ability to manage a team and work collaboratively with camp staff.
- Familiarity with a variety of special needs, including but not limited to developmental and physical disabilities.
- Training or certification in special education, behavior management, or related fields is preferred.
- A passion for working with young adults and adults and a deep commitment to creating a positive, inclusive environment for all campers.
Special Needs Camp Program Dates:
- Staff Training Week: June 16th - June 21st
- Special Needs Camp Sessions:
- June 22nd - June 28th
- June 29th - July 5th
- August 3rd - August 9th
- August 10th - August 16th
The Special Needs Coordinator will be required to work the full four weeks of the Special Needs Camp Program and the Staff Training Week. If preferred, they may also work full-time for the entire summer (June 16th - August 17th), assisting with other programs and activities during the remaining weeks.
Time Off: Time off is provided from Saturday noon to Sunday noon.
Salary: $450 per week, plus room and board
Why Camp Wightman? At Camp Wightman, we’re dedicated to creating a safe, welcoming, and engaging environment for every camper, including those with special needs. As part of our team, you’ll be making a lasting impact in the lives of campers and helping to foster a sense of community, independence, and belonging. This is an incredibly rewarding role where you can help create lasting memories for campers and gain valuable experience in the field of special needs care and camp leadership.
Job Types: Full-time, Seasonal
Pay: $450.00 per week
Ability to Commute:
- Griswold, CT 06351 (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
- Griswold, CT 06351: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $450