Day Camp Counselor
POSITION SUMMARY:
This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The Day Camp Counselor is Friendly, Nurturing, Caring, Creative, and Responsible. Works in collaboration with other staff members to create a safe, memorable, and rewarding experience for all. Leads and participates in all camp activities with campers. Responds to campers needs, maintains an organized work environment, and acts as a leader at all times.
OUR CULTURE:
Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you.
The Akron Area YMCA stands with others in denouncing prejudice, racism, intolerance, and all other forms of discrimination. We are committed to our mission: To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all. In the 150-year history of the Akron Area YMCA we have always and will continue to be dedicated to doing more, doing better, and thus becoming a champion of change in our community.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
- CONNECT: Get to know each program participant to understand their individual needs and to assist them in the development of their independence, social skills, self-esteem, increased activity levels and peer-to-peer relationships. Help each program participant to adjust and grow with others. Meet the needs of each individual.
- ORGANIZE: Assist with planning and implementing of the program activities in accordance with the goals and policies of the program. Maintain accurate attendance records.
- LEAD: Take initiative. Create and lead activities that are safe, fun, developmentally appropriate and consistent with YMCA values. Follow age-appropriate discipline policy. Teach and model our mission and our cause.
- BE ENTHUSIASTIC: Lead by example. Be interested, enthusiastic, and engaged in all program activities. Provide a memorable camping experience for all day campers in a safe and nurturing environment.
- RESPONSIBLE: Keep program areas clean and involve participants in clean-up activities. Maintain a professional demeanor. Take the initiative to do what needs to be done. Attend all staff meetings, training sessions, workshops and conferences.
- BE PUNCTUAL: Be dependable, punctual, organized, and prepared for the day.
- BE SAFE: Understand and explain all safety and health rules, and other policies to participants.
- BE CARING: Provide the personal attention needed to meet the needs of individual program participants. Treat all children, parents and staff with dignity and respect
- BE SUPPORTIVE: Evaluated camp program and provide input to support staff and directors. Be supportive and respectful to fellow staff members and program leaders.
- FOLLOW POLICIES: Use behavior management techniques and abide by mandatory reporting policies as outlined in the policy and procedure handbook. Meet regulatory standards, such as: ODJFS Licensing Rules, ODFJS Step Up to Quality requirements, and/or ACA Accreditation Standard.
Perform other duties as assigned.