Day Camp Counselor

General Function: Under the supervision of the Executive Director and Leadership team the Day Camp Counselor works with 8 to 12 campers as their caregiver, role model, mentor and leader. They will earn valuable experience not only as a care giver but as a leader. Counselors develop skills in communication, attention to detail, teamwork, leadership, workplace flexibility, experience in healthcare and overall professionalism. The work of a counselor is to create a fun, safe environment that enriches lives.  

OUR CULTURE:  
Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day.  We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with 

Essential Functions:  

To do what is necessary to create a safe and positive experience for others.  

Guide and direct a camper group in a variety of camp activities 

Participate in staff training and all staff meetings 

Be a professional role model for your campers and fellow staff  

Interpret and supervise safety and health regulations 

Take responsibility for the hygiene of campers and yourself 

Maintain professional appearance and decorum  

Provide quality instruction of assigned activity  

Assist with inventory and upkeep of activity equipment 

Assist with set up and take down of activities 

Assume an active role to incorporate nature, conservation and earth awareness. 

Ensure your activity program is safe, fun, challenging, and promotes youth development and skill progression. 

Assist in emergency procedures 

Assist in opening/closing activities as needed 

Maintain certifications necessary for employment 

To be on time and work when scheduled 

Assume additional responsibilities as directed by camp directors 

Must be committed to carrying out the purpose of Camp Westwood and the Pawtucket YMCA with the four core values of honesty, caring, respect and responsibility.  

Ability to serve and respond in a positive, respectful, timely, caring manner to a diverse background of campers 

Pre-requisites: 

Minimum of 18 years of age (Junior Counselors can be 17) 

Minimum of rising Senior in High School 

Child Abuse Prevention training required within 30 days of hire. 

Current or willing to obtain Lifeguard certification and First Aid and CPR 

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

Clean Criminal Background check 

Like children and have the ability to work with them and to understand their needs 

Good moral character   

Pass a drug screening if asked by management 

Strong mental and emotional health 

Physical Requirements: 

Running and playing with children 

Ability to swim 

Ability to walk, stand, and sit (including on the floor) for long periods of time. 

Exposure to communicable diseases and bodily fluids. 

Must be able to lift and carry/or assist children us to 50 pounds in weight 

Must be able to lift and carry food and supplies weighing up to 25 pounds. 

Ability to stand or sit while maintaining alertness for several hours at a time. 

Position may require bending, leaning, kneeling, and walking. 

Ability to speak concisely and effectively communicate. 

Visual and auditory ability to respond to critical situations and physical ability to act swiftly in an emergency. 

Benefits 

Training in First Aid and CPR  

Lifeguard Training Available 

Extremely valuable experience in childcare, leadership and professionalism.