Youth Development Professional - Summer Camp Counselor

Youth Development Professional (YDP) - Summer Camp Counselor

At the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Capital Area, you'll find more than just a job. You'll be part of realizing our mission to inspire and enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible, and caring citizens. Our team works together to ensure that youth in the Capital Area are given an opportunity to succeed and flourish in today's fast-paced environment.

The YDP Summer Camp-based role plays a key role in ensuring the safety and well-being of participants while supporting the growth and development of youth at our outdoor summer camp at Lawson Lake. You will plan and implement recreational activities that promote personal growth and teamwork, supervise and mentor a diverse group of youth, facilitate educational programs, and ensure campers' safety by following Department of Health (DOH) safety plans and BGCCA standards.

KEY ROLES (Essential Job Responsibilities)

• Plan and implement recreational activities that promote personal growth and teamwork.
• Supervising and mentoring a diverse group of youth, ensuring their safety and well-being at all times.
• Facilitate educational programs and workshops appropriate for an outdoor camp setting.
• Develop and implement age-appropriate games and activities for campers.
• Encouraging participation and fostering positive relationships among campers.
• Conduct daily camper health checks and file incident reports as needed.
• Participate in periodical staff meetings and trainings as required.
• Communicating effectively with parents and staff regarding camper progress and any concerns.
• Maintaining a clean and organized program space, equipment, and supplies.
• Assist in maintaining inventories of all program equipment and supplies.
• Working collaboratively with fellow counselors and staff to create a supportive community.
• Ensure the safety of campers by following the DOH, Summer Food Service Program or CACFP, safety plan and BGCCA standards.
• Follow proper protocols for outdoor activities, including sun safety, hydration, and weather-related procedures.
• Additional duties as assigned by supervisor.

REQUIREMENTS

CREDENTIALS, SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED: Education and Experience:

• High School Diploma or GED Equivalent required
• Must be 18 years and older
• One (1) year of professional experience working with youth between 5-12 years of age

Certifications:

• CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain within 60 days of hire)
• Mandated Reporter certification
• Required before starting: Complete required health and safety training, including Foundations in Health & Safety, Mandated Reporter training, and other trainings.

Skills/Abilities:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills with ability to connect with diverse youth
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to lead activities and facilitate meaningful discussions
• Knowledge of youth development principles (ages 5-12)
• Ability to function well in a high-paced and at times stressful environment
• Must pass a comprehensive background check, including but not limited to; fingerprinting, child abuse clearance, and sex offender registry check, as required by BGCCA.

Physical Requirements: This job requires extended periods of standing, walking, and engaging in physical activities with children in an outdoor camp setting. The ability to work in varying weather conditions (heat, sun, light rain) is necessary. Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds and navigate uneven terrain.

DISCLAIMER: The information presented indicates the general nature and level of work expected of employees in this classification. It is not designed to contain, nor to be interpreted as, a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, qualifications and objectives required of employees assigned to this job. The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Capital Area is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to recruiting and hiring a diverse workforce. Persons from diverse backgrounds, including communities of color, people with disabilities, and the LGBTQ+ community, are encouraged to apply.