Youth Advocate

Position Summary:

This position is open to applicants currently pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s in social work, psychology, counseling, or another mental health and/or behavioral health-related field. The Youth Advocate role is critical in supporting the social, emotional, and behavioral health of campers throughout their time at camp. They are responsible for establishing strong, positive relationships with the youth at camp, as well as serve as a resource for other seasonal program staff. This is a residential position, requiring full-time residence at Sherwood Forest’s camp from mid-May to early August. Free room and board are provided.

Job Requirements and Responsibilities:

• Establish and maintain positive relationships with youth, focusing on safety, support, interaction, and engagement.
• Facilitate training for seasonal program staff.
• Provide ongoing guidance and coaching to seasonal staff on how to appropriately respond to youth needs and behaviors.
• Utilize strengths-based, solution-focused brief counseling with youth around issues such as homesickness, peer conflict, family issues, and mental health. 
• Identify youth needs through discussion and observation then respond using an appropriate intervention. 
• Anticipate and help manage challenging youth behavior. When needed, collaborate with seasonal staff and youth to develop and implement behavior support plans.
• Communicate with families to discuss their child’s successes and challenges while at camp, when necessary.
• Consult with Camp Director, Youth and Family Support Coordinator, and/or Camp Nurse regarding youth issues and/or disclosures; complete necessary documentation related to youth issues and/or disclosures.
• Obtain personal care items and other resources for youth as needed.
• Other duties may be assigned by Youth and Family Support Coordinator, Camp Nurse, or Camp Director.