Specialized Support Counselor

Must meet minimum requirements of the position, complete a background check and pass drug test to include testing for marijuana.

Camp Dates:  June 11-13- Orientation
 June 16-18- Week 1
 June 23-24- Week 2
 July 8-11- Week 3
 July 14-17- Week 4
 July 21-23- Week 5 (Tentative)

Commitment to Citizen Service

 Service encompasses all aspects of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indian’s governmental operations.  Every employee shares the responsibility to provide exemplary service, dignity, and respect to all Tribal Citizens, the Tribal Council, and staff members.  To this end, all employees have an obligation to identify and report any service problems, issues, or concerns and through designated channels, initiate, recommend, and actively participate in solutions.  

 Position Summary: The Specialized Support Counselor is responsible for supporting youth. They will also be responsible for the general safety and development, growth, and skill achievement of the participants The Specialized Support Counselor will support outdoor educational and recreational experiences for participants that focus on Native American traditions and practices, as well as the core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.

 Essential Functions:

• Identify and respond to camper behavior issues.
• Physical Ability to respond appropriately to emergencies and situations requiring first aid.
• Assist in maintaining accurate program records. Including incident reports, logbook documentation, and daily attendance records.
• Know and understand ALL emergency procedures associated with the program.
• Know, enforce, and follow all safety guidelines associated with the camp and all program areas. This includes but is not limited to being responsible for youth’s safety and their whereabouts at all times.
• Support youth to optimize participation in the camp schedule.
• Always maintain confidentiality.
• Contact Families to determine campers specialized needs.
• Communicate specialized needs and plan to camp staff as needed.
• Identify and create plan for youth with specialized needs.
• Develop emergency safety plans for youth with specialized needs.
• Train staff with techniques to address youth with specialized needs.
• Support staff in difficult situations.
• Advocate and support youth and staff in an inclusive environment.

 Non-Essential Functions:

• Perform other related functions as assigned.

Equipment:

• Standard office equipment.  
• Systems used:  MS Office Applications, Internet
• Outdoor equipment as needed for craft or activity participating in.

 Position Requirements:  

• Bachelor's Degree in a related field from an accredited institution whose program of study has been recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation or the United States Department of Education required.
• Three (3) years’ experience working with special needs youth, preferably a range of special needs such as: mental, physical, emotional, and behavioral. 
• Upon hire, completion of provided First Aid and CPR certification, required.
• Ability to work as a member of a team and the ability to accomplish tasks with little direct supervision.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.

  Indian Preference

• Pokagon Band Preference Code applies.

 Physical Requirements:

• Must have the physical ability to participate in camp activities which include, but are not limited to, hiking, canoeing, swimming, team building activities, building campfires, physical games, and activities.
• Ability to ambulate independently for a reasonable distance and assist another individual while doing so if needed (including the ability to push a manual wheelchair).
• Must have the ability to physically support children when needed for safety in general camp activities. 

 Work environment:

• Work environment will be a variety of indoor and outdoor settings. 
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Competencies:

• Adaptability
• Managing Conflicts
• Inspiring Others
• Fostering Communication
• Acting with Empathy and Compassion