Job Description
Job DescriptionDescription:
POSITION SUMMARY:
This position supports the mission of the Y, a leading nonprofit organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. The Camp Counselor creates a safe, engaging, and inclusive summer experience for all participants, helping them build relationships, develop confidence, and create lasting memories.
OUR CULTURE:
At the Y, we strive to bring our mission and core values to life through a welcoming and supportive culture. We are:
- Welcoming: Open to all and create a sense of belonging.
- Genuine: Value individuals and embrace their unique contributions.
- Hopeful: Believe in every person’s potential to create change.
- Nurturing: Provide support in personal growth and development.
- Determined: Relentless in strengthening our community starting with you.
- Supervises and actively engages a group of children in daily program activities including swimming, field trips, sports, arts, nature, and team-building games.
- Ensure safety by following all YMCA and summer program policies, procedures, and emergency protocols.
- Creates and implements engaging, developmentally appropriate, and culturally relevant activities aligned with the Y’s values.
- Builds positive, respectful relationships with all participants, modeling YMCA core values and behavior expectations.
- Encourages youth to participate, lead, and make choices that foster independence and problem-solving skills.
- Maintains communication with parents/caregivers and provides updates on camper progress and experiences.
- Attends and contributes to pre-camp orientation, daily check-ins, staff training, and end-of-season wrap-up.
- Maintains the cleanliness and organization of camp areas, supplies, and equipment.
- Performs additional duties as assigned.
Requirements:
LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES:
- Communication & Influence
- Inclusion & Cultural Competence
- Decision-Making & Responsibility
- Program Engagement & Innovation
- Youth Development & Mentorship
- Team Collaboration
- Emotional Maturity
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Experience working with children in camp, school, or recreational settings preferred.
- Must meet minimum age requirements (typically 16+ or 18+, depending on position).
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work in a team-oriented environment.
- CPR, First Aid, and AED certifications required (or willingness to obtain prior to camp start).
- Ability to adapt to various outdoor/indoor environments and remain active throughout the day.
- Commitment to YMCA core values and a positive role model for youth.
WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
- Must be able to lead, actively participate in, and demonstrate camp activities in both indoor and outdoor environments.
- Ability to work in summer heat, move quickly, lift supplies (up to 25 lbs), and respond to emergencies.