Camp Counsellor

Description:

Are you a responsible and enthusiastic individual aged 17 or older, looking for a fulfilling on-site summer job that involves creating memorable experiences for young campers? Join us as a Camp Counselor and become an essential part of our camp community. With guidance from experienced counsellors, you’ll develop leadership, communication, and teamwork skills while making a positive impact on campers’ lives.

Responsibilities:

• Support Camp Activities:
  • Collaborate with senior counsellors to organize and lead diverse camp activities, games, and projects.
  • Help set up and maintain activity areas, ensuring safety and an inviting environment.
• Engage with Campers:
  • Interact with campers in a friendly, approachable manner, creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.
  • Set a positive example by demonstrating respect, responsibility, and enthusiasm.
• Assist with Cabin Supervision:
  • Work alongside senior counsellors to supervise campers within cabin settings, prioritizing safety and well-being.
  • Participate in morning routines, bedtime procedures, and cabin upkeep.
• Meal Duty:
  • Assist in mealtime supervision, ensuring campers are seated safely and adhering to mealtime etiquette.
  • Cultivate a positive dining environment that encourages camaraderie and good eating habits.
• Night Duty:
  • Participate in rotating night duty shifts, ensuring campers are comfortable and secure during evening hours.
  • Respond calmly and effectively to any nighttime needs or concerns.
• Maintenance Duty:
  • Collaborate with other staff to maintain clean and organized camp facilities.
  • Contribute to minor maintenance tasks, upholding a safe and well-maintained environment.
• Specialization Options:
  • Cabin Specialist: Focus on creating a cohesive cabin environment, organizing bonding activities, and supporting campers’ emotional well-being.
  • Ropes Specialist: Facilitate challenging and exciting rope course activities, promoting teamwork and personal growth.
  • Waterfront Lifeguard: Ensure safety at the waterfront area, overseeing water-based activities and providing emergency response if needed.
• Additional Session Rotations:
  • Office: Assist with administrative tasks and camp logistics, contributing to smooth operations.
  • Tuck: Manage the camp store, ensuring campers have access to snacks and supplies during designated times.
  • Audiovisual: Support audiovisual needs for camp presentations, events, and performances.
  • Strength and Conditioning: Lead exercise and fitness sessions, promoting camper well-being and healthy habits.
• Be a Positive Role Model:
  • Demonstrate integrity, responsibility, and respect in all interactions, setting an example for campers to follow.
  • Embody the camp’s values and encourage campers to adopt positive behaviours and attitudes.
• Cabin Bonding:
  • Lead activities designed to foster cabin bonding, encouraging campers to build friendships and a sense of unity.
  • Cultivate an environment where campers feel comfortable sharing and supporting one another.
• Addressing Homesickness:
  • Provide emotional support to campers experiencing homesickness, offering encouragement and facilitating connections.
  • Assist campers in navigating their feelings and adjusting to the camp environment.
• Promote Camper Interaction:
  • Encourage campers to interact, develop friendships, and collaborate through team-building activities and group initiatives.
• Participate in Comprehensive Training:
  • Attend pre-camp training to familiarize yourself with camp policies, emergency protocols, and your role as a counsellor.
  • Engage in winter training sessions designed to enhance your counselling and leadership skills.
  • Obtain and maintain first aid and CPR certifications, ensuring campers’ safety and well-being.
• Contribute Creatively:
  • Share your ideas and suggestions for activities that align with camp themes and cater to campers’ interests.

Qualifications:

• Aged 17 or older, displaying a genuine interest in positively impacting children’s experiences.
• Strong communication skills, enabling effective interactions with campers and fellow staff.
• Enthusiastic, patient, and adaptable, even in dynamic and evolving situations.
• Willingness to learn from senior counsellors and camp leadership, with a commitment to personal growth.
• Passion for outdoor pursuits, arts and crafts, games, or other activities central to the camp’s focus.

Job Requirements:

• Must be 16 years of age as of December 31, 2022.
• Clean Police Record Check with a Vulnerable Sector Check.
• Standard First Aid with CPR-C .
• Strong Communication Skills.
• Experience with children is an assist .
• Experience with Kids 8-17
• Ability to work in a team.
• Ability to work long hours.

Benefits:

• Gain practical experience in working with children and being part of a collaborative team.
• Acquire essential leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills that extend beyond the camp environment.
• Make a significant contribution to campers’ lives, creating cherished memories and positive impacts.
• Enjoy on-site accommodation and meals provided throughout the duration of the camp program.

Time Commitment:

• Camp Counselors commit to an 8-week summer program, including pre-camp training, the camp duration, and post-camp responsibilities.
• Winter training sessions offer continuous skill development during the off-season.

Note: This description outlines a comprehensive view of the Camp Counselor role, adaptable to the camp’s unique structure and thematic focus. The extended time commitment reflects the dedication required for a comprehensive camp experience. The inclusion of specialization options, additional session rotations, and being a role model underscores the diversity of roles available and the values associated with the role.