Day Camp Counselor-AmeriCorps

Job Description:

Position Summary:

Day Camp Counselors are the primary caregivers for each Day Camper. Day Camp Counselors have the responsibility of developing and implementing educational and recreation programs at Camp Whitcomb Mason and are responsible for daily communication with parents/guardians.

AmeriCorps Summary:

AmeriCorps members agree to complete a term of National Service; as they support Boys & Girls

Clubs of Greater Milwaukee programming and receive a set living allowance. Upon successful

Completion of this term of service, AmeriCorps members are eligible for a Segal AmeriCorps

Education Award.

Responsibilities:

· Assist in the direction, coordination, and organization of campers in their group within activities and throughout the camp in order to meet the outcomes.

· Apply basic youth development principles in working with campers through communication, relationship development, and respect for diversity, involvement and empowerment of youth.

· Ensure 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 and staff within the mission and outcomes.

· Responsible for leading or assisting with the teaching of activities.

· Actively participate in all program areas as assigned.

· Provide for a 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.

· Ensure that campers receive their medications as directed by Health Coordinator.

· Be alert to campers and staff needs and assist them with personal and/or health problems; discuss with camp health manager and/or camp director when appropriate.

· Be alert to equipment and facilities to ensure utilization, proper care, and maintenance is adhered to; report repairs needed promptly to Program Coordinator.

· 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.

· Provide parents appropriate feedback and information as needed for their campers to have a successful camp experience.

· Follow safety and security protocols when campers are in public while presenting a positive image of the camp.

· Provide supervision for campers while campers are transported to and from camp or during scheduled field trips off camp property.

· Contribute to verbal and written evaluations and communications as requested

Experience and Skills

Education Requirements:

· Must be 17 years of age and at least an incoming senior in high school.

· Must provide proof of citizenship, as required by AmeriCorps.

· Must pass background check requirements, including fingerprint screening.

· Must be able to obtain or become certified in First Aid/CPR

· Must submit health history record and examination form prior to first day of service.

· Ability to interact with all age levels.

Experience Requirements:

· Understanding of the development needs of youth.

· Ability to relate to youth and adults in a positive manner.

· Demonstrated knowledge and skill in designated camp program areas.

Skills:

· Ability to communicate verbally and in writing with youth campers and their parents.

· Ability to lead and teach programs.

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an AmeriCorps member to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

· Ability to communicate and work with groups participating (age and skill levels) and provide necessary instruction to campers, volunteers and staff.

· Ability to observe camper behavior and assess its appropriateness, enforce appropriate safety regulations and emergency procedures and apply appropriate behavior-management techniques.

· Visual and auditory ability to identify and respond to environment 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.

Service Environment:

The service environment characteristics described here are representative of those a member encounters while performing the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The noise level in the service environment is usually moderate.