Day Camp Counselor OrthoIndy YMCA

MISSION
To put Christian principles into practice through programs that enhance personal growth
and improve health of spirit, mind and body for all.

GENERAL FUNCTION
Directly supervises a group of approximately 12 campers in day camp setting in order to
provide a safe, fun environment for camp participants and foster social, spiritual, physical and
intellectual growth.

KNOW HOW

• At least 18 years of age
• Experience working with children preferred.
• Must have understanding, patience, creativity, cooperative spirit, common sense, spiritual depth, and commitment to working with youngsters
• Ability to administer age-appropriate activities and behavior management techniques.
• Ability to work as a team member and coordinate with other counselors in contributing to the goals of the program.
• Able to provide mature leadership and give and take direction.
• Ability to communicate effectively with participants, parents and other YMCA staff.
• Maintain current CPR Heartsaver and First Aid certifications, Child Abuse Prevention training, Safety & Risk Management, New Employee Orientation training and other required day camping training prior to the start of camp or no later than 30 days (with approval) after camp begins.
• Able to have fun, be flexible, share enthusiasm and motivate campers throughout the summer.

PHYSICAL AND MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

1. Ability to visibly observe children.

2. Ability to stand for an extended period of time.

3. Ability to lift up to 40 lbs and transport equipment from one location to another.

4. Ability to demonstrate and lead activities.

5. Ability to come into contact with pool chemicals.

6. Ability to communicate with parents and children effectively.

7. Ability to hear distress signals even when distracted by noise and activity.

8. Ability to reason, solve problems and make sound decisions even when distracted by noise and activity.

9. Ability to work in a variety of environments, specifically those subject to extreme heat and humidity.

10. Observe and promote safety and security procedures.

11. Physically and mentally able to respond to emergencies and administer CPR and First Aid effectively.

PRINCIPLE RESPONSIBILITIES
Staff Training and Meetings
• Attend all training and meetings required for program, including citywide camp staff training.
• Attend all assigned overnights and family programs.
• Develop personal and job related goals for the summer and a plan to accomplish all goals. Evaluate at the end of the summer.

Camper Supervision and Safety
• Be directly responsible for the daily safety and program schedule for approximately 12 campers.
• Follow and model established guidelines in regard to safety and emergency procedures and document accidents/concerns as required.
• Report hazardous conditions and equipment to Program Director immediately.
• Follow YMCA procedures in regard to camper and staff injuries.
• Practice safety awareness at all times (including hydration and sun protection) and maintain a well-stocked first aid kit.
• In the event of inclement weather, take necessary steps to move campers to a safe location and make proper YMCA notifications.
• Personally supervise your campers at all times.
• Assist Aquatic staff with the supervision of campers during free swim periods and other Aquatic activities related to summer day camp.
• Take responsibility for maintaining behavior management in assigned group and serve as a role model for good behavior.
• Be dedicated to creating a camp atmosphere such that each child grows to a fuller awareness of self, others, and nature.
• Maintain a clean, neat, safe campsite daily.
• Keep accurate daily attendance and medication records, as well as other required program documentation.
• Participate in early and late stay duties as assigned

Camp Activity Schedule
• Work with Site Director to prepare weekly schedule.
• Arrive to the job on time, rested and prepared for the day’s program. This may include: advance preparation (e.g. have some stories, skits, games, crafts, and nature projects)ready to use.
• Learn and lead camp songs and skits.
• Take a leadership role in all camp activities.
• Maintain a resource file of camp program ideas, help discover new program ideas and share your