Counselor

THE JOYCE D & ANDREW J MANDELL GREATER HARTFORD JEWISH COMMU•West Hartford, CT

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Serving people of all backgrounds and at every age and stage of life, the Mandell Jewish Community Center is a gathering place and resource for the Hartford region. The JCC provides recreational, cultural, educational, and social programs designed to promote physical, intellectual, and spiritual well-being of its members and others who participate. As a center where all are welcome, our mission is rooted in a fundamental commitment to inclusivity and in universal Jewish values. We work to build community, cultural identity, and bridges of understanding by celebrating diversity and fostering appreciation for Jewish culture and heritage. FUNCTION: The Junior Counselor is responsible for assisting the Counselors in teaching and carrying out activities and guiding campers in their personal growth and daily living skills. Junior Counselors will be responsible for upholding the policies and philosophy of camp, exuding spirit and maintaining a positive attitude.

Requirements

Education: High School. Individuals with equivalent work experience and appropriate training may be considered.
Experience: Minimum age requirement of 16 years old
Ability to manage/ supervise a group of children or one on one as assigned.
Ability to take initiative and direction
Knowledge and passion to work with children
Ability to communicate with staff, supervisor and campers
Be enthusiastic and creative
Must submit health history record and examination form prior to first day of work
Ability to relate to youth and adults in a positive manner
Demonstrate knowledge and skill in program areas designated camp program areas
Ability to communicate and work with groups participating (age and skill levels) and provide necessary instruction to campers and staff
Ability to observe staff behavior, assess its appropriateness, enforce appropriate safety regulations and emergency procedures, and apply appropriate management techniques
Visual and auditory ability to identify and respond to environmental and other hazards related to the activity
Physical ability to respond appropriately to situations requiring first aid. Must be able to assist campers in an emergency (fire, evacuation, illness, or injury) and possess strength and endurance required to maintain constant supervision of campers
Ability to consistently deliver quality customer service
Be patient and tolerant with children and adults
Possess strength and endurance required to maintain constant supervision of campers
Ability to sit, stand, bend, stoop, hike or walk for extended periods of time

Nice To Haves

Preferred: CPR/First Aid for children, Epi Pen and Medication Management

Responsibilities

Create a warm, welcoming environment for all
Maintain a safe and healthy environment for campers, abiding by all camp rules/policies. Being able to assist campers in an emergency
Assist in the direction, supervision, and organization of campers in their camp group, within activities and throughout the camp in order to meet the intended camper outcomes
Apply basic youth development principles in working with campers through communication, relationship development, respect for diversity, involvement and empowerment of youth
Assure campers are properly supervised at all times
Be aware of and implement safety guidelines
Participate in the development and implementation of program activities for campers within the mission and outcomes
Responsible for assisting with the teaching of activities
Actively participate in all program areas as assigned
Assist in the progression of activities within the framework of individual and group interests and abilities
Assist in program areas such as waterfront, nature, all camp activities, and arts and crafts as directed
Maintain high standards of health and safety in all activities for campers and staff
Provide the daily care of each camper within your supervision including recognition of personal health needs
Be alert to campers and staff needs and assist them with personal and/or health problems, and discuss with camp nurse and/or camp director
Be alert to equipment and facilities to ensure utilization, proper care, and maintenance is adhered to; report repairs needed promptly to unit head and/or camp director
Be a role model to campers and staff in your attitude and behavior
Follow and uphold all safety and security rules and procedures
Set a good example to campers and others in regard to general camp procedures and practices including sanitation, schedule, and sportsmanship
Represent the camp when interacting with parents or community members
Follow safety and security protocols when campers are in public while presenting a positive image of the camp
Attend all mandatory staff orientation trainings and meetings prior to and throughout the camp season.
Contribute to verbal and written evaluations and communication as requested
Participate enthusiastically in all camp activities, planning, and leading those as assigned
Participate as a member of the camp staff team to deliver and supervise evening programs, special events, and other all-camp activities and camp functions
Demonstrate sensitivity to the needs of campers served – help foster self confidence in campers
Provide excellent customer service, both internally and externally
Work with Counselor to resolve customer problems and conflicts
Responds promptly to customer needs