What are the responsibilities and job description for the Special Recreation Camp Counselor position at Sertoma Star Services?
Summer Camp Counselor
Department: Special Recreation Services Department
Status: Part-time
Location: Calumet City IL based out of Memorial Park District
Who We Are:
At Sertoma Star Services, we're on a mission to empower individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities and those living with mental illness to reach their goals and lead fulfilling lives. With a strategic presence in South Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana, we proudly serve over 2,000 consumers through a diverse range of vocational, educational, therapeutic, and residential programs.
At Sertoma Star Services, we're on a mission to empower individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities and those living with mental illness to reach their goals and lead fulfilling lives. With a strategic presence in South Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana, we proudly serve over 2,000 consumers through a diverse range of vocational, educational, therapeutic, and residential programs.
Sertoma Star Services’ roots trace back to the merger of two dynamic social services organizations, New Star and Sertoma Centre combining over 125 years of expertise in providing cutting-edge, person-first services. Our united commitment is straightforward: to transform lives through delivering comprehensive services, choices, and opportunities to those we support in an environment that promotes self-advocacy and personal success. By joining the Sertoma Team you will have a unique opportunity to challenge limits and change lives. Together, we can shape a brighter future.
Your Role
Looking for a rewarding summer job where you can make a real impact? As a Camp Counselor, you’ll provide engaging recreation experiences for adults with developmental disabilities in a park district setting. Working closely with the Recreation Supervisor, you will assist in planning and leading activities while ensuring a safe, inclusive, and positive environment for all participants.
This is an excellent opportunity for college students pursuing careers in education, recreation, social work, or related fields to gain hands-on experience. If you're passionate about working with individuals with disabilities and want to have an amazing summer while making a difference, apply today!
Key Responsibilities
- Supervise, lead, and engage participants in a variety of recreation programs, fostering a fun and supportive environment.
- Serve as a positive role model, encouraging independence, socialization, and personal growth.
- Attend required staff meetings, training sessions, and orientation to ensure preparedness.
- Provide safe and reliable transportation for participants to and from programs as needed.
- Respond to injuries and incidents promptly, ensuring proper care and reporting concerns to supervisors.
- Communicate effectively with supervisors, keeping them informed of any challenges or issues.
- Get to know participants, understanding their unique needs, interests, and abilities to enhance their experience.
Physical Requirements
Staff will be asked to be in a stationary position for periods of time such as during transportation or during certain programs. Staff will be asked to move quickly and at a moment's notice for participant and staff safety. Staff will be frequently communicating with participants and other staff about program expectations, instructions, safety concerns, and various other topics that promote a positive program experience. Staff will be asked to learn how to determine when a participant is going to need assistance. Staff will also be asked to help transfer participants from wheelchairs or chairs.
Qualifications
- High School Diploma is required.
- Recreation experience and experience working with people with disabilities.
- General knowledge of different types of disabilities.
- Possess a responsible attitude.
- Must be a patient and conscientious worker.
- If required to drive, must maintain a driving record that meets the agency's driving eligibility requirements.
Health, Safety, and Culture
Sertoma Star is an equal opportunity employer that embraces the uniqueness of every person. Sertoma understands that in order for you to work effectively and be an advocate of inclusivity, we must foster an environment that is respectful and sensitive to persons of all gender identities and from every cultural, socioeconomic, ethnic, religious, and racial background. Our open-door, team-building concept supports both agency goals and employee success.
Sertoma Star is an equal opportunity employer that embraces the uniqueness of every person. Sertoma understands that in order for you to work effectively and be an advocate of inclusivity, we must foster an environment that is respectful and sensitive to persons of all gender identities and from every cultural, socioeconomic, ethnic, religious, and racial background. Our open-door, team-building concept supports both agency goals and employee success.
