Camp Hope Counselor

YMCA of Rock River Valley•Rockford, IL

9d•Onsite

About The Position

Camp Hope Counselors create positive, nurturing relationships with children, while building cooperative relationships with parents/caregivers. The role provides direct supervision of a group of children in a week-long overnight camp setting and giving pathways of hope to participants. This position promotes and supports the potential of all youth in programs and facilitates peer-to-peer connections as part of the overall camp experience.

Requirements

Minimum age of 18 years old and maximum age of 20 years old (Age Group 1) or Minimum age of 21 years old and maximum age of 24 years old (Age Group 2)
Able to work with children between ages of 8-12 (Age Group 1) or Able to work with children between ages of 13-17 (Age Group 2)
High school graduate or equivalent; one year or more of college preferred
Previous experience working with children, preferably in a day camp setting
Attend trauma-informed training upon hire
IL DCFS Child Abuse and Neglect/Mandated Reporter
CPR & First Aid/AED certification required upon hire
Current Praesidium Academy trainings required

Nice To Haves

Experience preferred in one or more of the following areas: outdoor living, archery, boating, camping, songs/music, skits, sports, aquatics and recreational games

Responsibilities

Facilitates and provides direct supervision of children in a one-week overnight camp.
Be a positive YMCA role model for the entire camp program by modeling the YMCA core values: Caring, Honesty, Respect, Responsibility & Faith.
Provides constant supervision with each activity to ensure the safety of all program participants.
Plans and implements program activities that are culturally relevant, developmentally appropriate and consistent with YMCA values.
Adheres to program standards including safety and cleanliness standards.
Demonstrates camp stewardship by maintaining cleanliness of buildings and grounds.
Attends staff meetings and trainings.
Follows YMCA policies and procedures and adheres to American Camp Association standards, including those related to medical and disciplinary situations, child abuse prevention and emergencies.
Cultivates positive relationships and maintains effective communication with parents, children and other staff.
Models relationship-building skills in all interactions.
Ensures a strong focus on character development and diversity, equity and inclusion throughout programming.
Reports damaged equipment or safety hazards promptly.
Performs any other functions necessary for the smooth and efficient operation of the YMCA of Rock River Valley.