Overnight Camp Support Staff - Trail Crew

The Dream Program•Fairfield, VT

37d•Onsite

About The Position

Trail Crew at Camp DREAM is an Americorps position, responsible for maintaining and developing Camp DREAM’s land and facilities. Trail crew members will work in a team of 5-8, and will have the opportunity to do trail building and maintenance, water diversion, and basic carpentry projects. Trail Crew members live in a tent with other staff members and work as a team to accomplish tasks, led by the Trail Crew Lead and Camp Facilities Manager. Trail Crew members also assist with facilities management, which may include mouse proofing spaces, managing the trash and recycling, and helping out in the kitchen. Trail Crew members will not be expected to be responsible for groups of campers without a cabin counselor also present. Americorps members are expected to work 10 day sessions, with one 30 hour period off; as well as 3 days off between sessions. Dates: May 25 - August 12 Commitment to DEIB The DREAM Program is committed to dismantling systems of oppression that affect our youth and families. This organizational commitment means that members should join this space with an intention of learning, unlearning, and diving into ways that your involvement will directly contribute to DREAM’s mission of reducing the Opportunity Gap while also supporting the dismantling of other systemic inequities. We seek members who contribute to The DREAM Program’s diverse community, as having different perspectives, identities, and skills are what allow us to excel in our service. DREAM seeks members who are ready to engage in and foster an inclusive environment, and who strive to deliver culturally appropriate and relevant programming to the youth we serve. Incoming members and staff should understand that we serve marginalized communities, which means that it is imperative that diversity, equity, and inclusivity are infused into every aspect of our work as an organization. Description of Camp: Camp DREAM is a joyfully rambunctious camp! We are a rustic forest environment with minimal electricity and wifi, and no phone reception. You should be able to supervise campers at all times while on duty at camp, which is broadly described in the following: A communal living situation that means actively socializing and being surrounded by other campers and staff from sun up to sun down; Working outside in a variety of weather for 8-12 hours per day 3 daily meals in the lodge or outdoor pavilion with up to 60 people who create a busy, bustling, and often loud environment, with excited talking, cheering, large-group singing, and games; A screen-free environment (during work hours) in which we disconnect from cell phones, video games, and the internet. Campers do not use devices during any part of the program day nor are campers permitted to wear headphones outside of the cabin. It is important to remember that by the nature of overnight camp: You will likely have a lot less “alone time” than you might find at home. Your schedule may change with little notice due to weather or other circumstances, and flexibility is key You should feel ok being away from home and having an independent group-living experience with 50-60 kids and staff. Sleeping accommodations include: A large canvas tent (12’x12’) shared with 1-2 other staff members A wooden bed frame with a 5” camp mattress, or a camping cot (you can choose) Composting toilet facilities up to a 5 minute walk from your tent No water or electricity at the tent site

Requirements

To be an AmeriCorps member you MUST be 17 years or older, and be a US Citizen, US National, or Lawful Permanent Resident Alien.
Excitement and passion around trailwork and property development.
Commitment to the entire service term May 25 through August 12th
Commitment to the mission of AmeriCorps and DREAM.
Desire to enhance existing skills and develop new skills necessary for service.
Commitment to serve as a role model for youth.
Elevated awareness of issues of social equity and social justice with a commitment to continued learning as it relates to serving our diverse community in a manner that is respectful and aware.
A passion for supporting your own and others’ ongoing work around Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.
Demonstrated ability to manage time and set priorities while giving consideration to those who you are serving, your fellow team members, the organization, and the self.

Nice To Haves

Creativity, energy, and an entrepreneurial spirit.
Experience with trail work, carpentry, and facility management
Current driver’s license, proof of insurance, and clean driving record. (NOT REQUIRED but preferred to support session transportation)
First aid and CPR certification by the time summer sessions begin. (If not currently certified, DREAM will offer opportunities for certification during our summer orientation.)
Mental and physical ability to manage stressful situations, work well under pressure, and maintain a positive attitude while working long days on less sleep than accustomed to

Responsibilities

Attend scheduled meetings and training events, including pre-camp training sessions.
Share a living/sleeping space with 1-2 other support staff
Maintain and improve trails and facilities at Camp DREAM (garden, trails, landscapes, and buildings).
Complete ongoing building projects and facility upgrades (includes basic carpentry tasks and use of power tools).
Adhere to and ensure enforcement of camp rules and communicate them positively and effectively to participants.
Regularly communicate with co-staff and the leadership team about the status of projects, equipment, and any other job responsibilities. Communicate with leadership staff regarding potential hazards, concerns, or incidents that may need follow-up based on individual circumstances.
Eat 3 daily meals with campers and counselors. Get to know campers and develop positive, healthy relationships. Maintain appropriate boundaries with campers and follow camp policies regarding disclosure, confidentiality, and social media involvement.
Immediately report all injuries and illnesses, regardless of severity, to leadership staff after the nurses have taken control of the situation.
Know the scheduled service and rest times. Report to service on time as scheduled.
Abstain from the use of personal electronic devices, such as tablets or cell phones, during on-duty hours. These devices may be used during time off.
Perform additional functions or assume additional responsibilities throughout the facility as needed or as requested by the camp leadership.

Benefits

Upon completion of dates and total hours, you will receive an education award of $1,956.35 (pre-tax).
Free housing for your entire term is included.
AmeriCorps members are also eligible for: Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) (food stamps) Child care assistance Student loan deferment (forbearance) Other publicly-funded benefits, such as heating and utility assistance.
If you engage in work-related travel in a personal vehicle outside of your commute, DREAM will provide reimbursement for mileage.
As an AmeriCorps member at DREAM, you will have the additional support of a DREAM AmeriCorps Director to help you navigate your service term and apply for publicly funded programs.

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