junior Camp Counselor

Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges Inc•New Milford, NJ

12d

About The Position

POSITION SUMMARY: The Junior Camp Counselor is responsible assisting Counselors and Senior Counselors in the supervision, guidance and direction of the campers in small and large groups. The Junior Counselor helps children adjust to camp according to camp rules and safety precautions. The Junior Counselor is a source of friendship, guidance and positive redirection to the campers. He or she will support the efforts of the Camp Director, Specialist, Senior Counselors and Counselors in all aspects of camp.

Requirements

High School Diploma, college credits/degree in Education preferred.
Basic understanding of youth development principles.
Strong interpersonal skills and ability to communication with all levels including staff, parents and staff.
Ability to be creative, innovative, flexible with high energy. Ability to problem solve and take initiative that adhere to the purpose, mission and goals of the YMCA.
Ability to relate to children and develop professional, positive relationships with youth.
1-3 years’ experience leading and supervising group activities.
Ability to work as part of a team, as a role model and take initiative to identify potential risk factors and take measures to reduce them.
First Aid, CPR and AED certification may be required.

Responsibilities

At all times, maintain a professional demeanor, as a representative of the YMCA. Wear Camp T-shirt every day. Encourage through positivity.
Assist Campers keeping them focused and engaged in camp activities. Respond to campers needs.
Assist all Specialists during activity periods, keeping all campers engaged.
Learn Camper’s names.
Consistently greet campers with a smile and treat them with respect and with enthusiasm.
Develop positive relationships with families and learn why they come to our Y.
Be knowledgeable regarding the Annual Campaign and its purpose.
Assist in carrying out themes, special events, trips and all camp activities.
Encourage camper’s youth development progress.
Help group maintain camp cleanliness.
Work cooperatively with all camp staff while planning camp activities.
Perform the above responsibilities in an enthusiastic and committed manner. Do more than the minimum for campers. Treat each camper as if they are special.
Uphold, model, teach and put the four (4) core values of the YMCA into action in all camp activities everyday: Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility
Create a positive and nurturing learning environment to instill and encourage youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.
Must attend regular staff meetings as scheduled and complete all required trainings.
At all times, uphold camp safety standards. Maintain constant face counts. Will understand and practice risk management and disaster policies and procedures.
Help maintain group control and facilitate lunchtime activities.
Must follow all Association Aquatics Policy Guidelines.
Take on designated assignments for aquatic activities. Help expedite arrival and departure from the pool (i.e. dressing rooms, etc.). Follow all YMCA, ACA and NJ Licensing standards and procedures to ensure the safest and best quality camp and to help maintain ACA accreditation.
Secure and submit all incident reports to Camp Director.
Report all immediate concerns to Camp Director or nearest supervisor.
Follow supervision of bus counselors and help ensure safety, expedient procedures and fun activities on the bus. Lead bus songs, stories and games.
Use redirection to appropriate activities and positive reinforcement to commend good choices when applicable.