SUMMER CAMP COUNSELOR

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Camp Counselor is responsible to carry out high quality educational and recreational experiences for participants that focus on the Mankato Family YMCA core values of caring, honesty, responsibility, respect, and faith. Responsible for the general safety, development, growth, and skill achievement of the participants in the group. Staff are contracted May through August. Work schedules are relatively consistent.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Execute the weekly schedule/curriculum designed by the Summer Camp Leadership team, including implementing and participating in high quality program activities in-group and camp-wide that are culturally relevant, developmentally appropriate, and consistent with YMCA core values.
• Enforce appropriate safety measures and positive behavior intervention methods by observing, identifying, and responding to participants behavior.
• Participate in all training activities which are provided to support program policies and procedures, personal growth, and skill development.
• Maintain positive relations with staff, campers, and camp families. Model relationship-building skills in all interactions.
• Be a friend and leader to each individual to promote improved camper self-image and good group relationships.
• Set a positive example in exercise, attitude, personal habits, and food selection, including promoting good manners at mealtime and encourage common courtesies.
• Ensure that the site is kept clean, organized, and up to cleanliness standards.
• Assist in YMCA promotion of the program including photos, videos and other forms of communication.
• Make ongoing systematic observations and evaluations of each child. Communicate with camp leadership about campers experiences and report concerns to Camp Leadership/Administration.
• Maintain accurate program records including incident reports and daily attendance.
• Know, enforce, and follow all safety procedures and emergency action plans associated with the camp and all program areas. This includes but is not limited to being responsible for campers safety and their whereabouts at all times.
• Follow all program policy and procedures including Child Abuse Prevention Policies.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Never convicted of any child abuse including sexual abuse.
• At least 18 years of age.
• Experience and/or education in child development, education, human relations, communication, or recreational programs.
• CPR, First Aid, AED certifications within 60 days of hire (YMCA provided).
• Ability to plan, lead, organize, and implement school age recreation programs.
• Strong communication (both written and verbal) skills with the ability to be flexible and quickly adapt.
• Ability and willingness to work with people of diverse populations.
• Commitment and passion to working with children.
• Self-motivated and ability to multi-task.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Sufficient strength, agility and mobility to perform essential functions and to supervise program activities in a wide variety of indoor and outdoor locations (depending upon the programs). Perform all physical aspects of the position, including walking, standing, bending, reaching, and lifting up to 50 pounds at a time. The ability to calmly and effectively react in an emergency situation.

This job description represents the major functions of the position but is not intended to be all-inclusive. The incumbent is also responsible for completing projects or preforming duties deemed necessary for the Mankato YMCAs success.