Camp Coordinator- Preschool Camp

South Mountain YMCA, 13 JEFFERSON AVE, MAPLEWOOD, New Jersey, United States of America

Req #1417

Monday, March 18, 2024

We are an all - inclusive organization joined together by a shared commitment to nurturing the potential of kids, promoting healthy living and fostering a sense of social responsibility. As a growing, mission focused, and future-oriented association of YMCAs, the Metro YMCA of the Oranges has an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated, mission-driven, candidate to join our team.

Sign on bonus may apply

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Camp Coordinator assists the Camp Director in the following:

• The planning and direction of camp program activities and special events, and the coordination of the efforts of related personnel by providing necessary resources and supervision.

• The planning and organization of camp before camp sessions begin.

• The supervision of the campsite all day each day of the camp season.

• The planning of and implementation of all trips and special events.

• Overseeing the smooth operation of camp, and handling discipline problems or other problems as they arise.

• Implementing required training, meetings and evaluations.

  ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Assist with planning and implementation of camp programs, special events and activities prior to the start of camp according to American Camping Association standards to ensure the safety and happiness of all campers.

• Schedule daily programming of camp activities. Assist camp staff in designing program activities that are well thought out, diverse, progressive, challenging and fun for the campers.

• Assist with planning and implementation of the pre-camp training prior to the start of camp according to ACA standards. Assist with the supervision and training of the specialty staff and coordinate their activities.

• Develop resources for counselors offering guidance and direction where needed in areas of nature, arts and crafts, sports, games, dramatics and music.

• Consistently greet campers with a smile and enthusiasm. Learn their names. As a leader, set a good example for the children. Create positive group spirit and cooperation

• Encourage camper’s youth development progress. As a leader, set a good example for the children. Teach staff and campers how to solve camper problems and maintain basic discipline and group control.

• Develop positive relationships with camper families and learn why they come to our Y.

• Be knowledgeable regarding the Strong Kids Campaign and its purpose. Actively participate in getting camp parents to become donors to the SKC.

• Practice and encourage a healthy lifestyle while at the Y as a role model and with members.

• Attend regular staff meetings scheduled by the supervisor.

• Must attend and complete all required trainings.

• Ensure that all volunteers have a great experience to help our association increase volunteer participation.

• Attend and participate in camp open houses.

• Respond to campers and parents needs. Handle complaints in a prompt and courteous manner.

• Help camp staff and campers maintain campsite cleanliness.

• Supervise and evaluate counselors. Work towards developing a cohesive and highly motivated staff team.

• If camp has a C.I.T. program, will help to deliver the Counselor-In-Training program which provides for the camper, leadership training in teaching skills, handling group dynamics, discipline techniques, and teamwork in assisting the other staff and supporting camp activities. The program also should facilitate personal growth of the C.I.T.'s through values clarification activities and other fun recreational and educational events. Evaluate each C.I.T.'s progress regularly providing guidance and encouragement.

• Review camper progress and handle disciplinary problems at camp according to YMCA and ACA standards and procedures.

• Follow all documentation and attendance procedures.

• Adhere to all NJ Youth Camp standards and American Camping Association standards, especially maintaining camper safety as a top priority. Will understand and practice risk management and disaster policies and procedures.

• Role model YMCA Core Values and all camp policies and procedures.

• Maintain positive relations with campers, parents, and staff members, as well as other people working in conjunction with camp such as bus drivers, pool site staff and trip site staff.

• Assists the Camp Director in evaluating the camp program at the end of the season.

• Act as requested by YMCA supervisors. Perform the above responsibilities in an enthusiastic and committed manner.

  Safety:

• Must attend and complete all required trainings.

• At all times uphold camp safety standards. Maintain constant face counts. Will understand and practice risk management and disaster policies and procedures.

• Help maintain group control and facilitate lunch time activities.

• Must follow all Association Aquatics Policy Guidelines. Take on designated assignments for aquatic activities. Help expedite arrival and departure from the pool (i.e. dressing rooms, etc.). Follow all YMCA, ACA, and NJ Licensing standards and procedures to ensure the safest and best quality camp and to help maintain ACA accreditation.

• Secure and submit all accident reports, special plans, schedule changes, and evaluations to Camp Director when appropriate.

• Report all immediate concerns to Camp Director or nearest supervisor.

• Follow supervision of bus counselors and help to insure safety, expedient procedures and fun activities on the bus. Lead bus songs, stories and games.

• Use two methods of discipline with campers to include: redirection to appropriate activities and using positive reinforcement to commend good choices.

  OTHER DUTIES:

• Always maintain a professional demeanor, as you are a representative of the YMCA.

• Wear Camp T-shirt daily.

• Maintain positive attitude, responsibility and self-motivation. Be punctual and reliable.

• Create a positive and nurturing learning environment to instill youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

  QUALIFICATIONS:

• A minimum of 5 years in teaching, youth work, recreation or related field experience.

• A minimum of 2 years experience preferred at camping or youth work experience in a leadership position.

• Must have a commitment to working with youth and adults from a variety of backgrounds toward the common goals of encouraging personal growth, developing positive behaviors and healthy lifestyles, and promoting worldwide understanding.

• Ability to facilitate learning in others and ability to supervise others.

• Understanding of age specific characteristics of children.

• Previous experience with diverse populations preferred.

• Basic understanding of youth development principles.

• Ability to problem solve and take initiative that adhere to the purpose, mission and goals of the YMCA.

• Ability to work as part of a team, as a role model and take initiative to identify potential risk factors and take measures to reduce them.

  PHYSICAL DEMANDS

  Must be capable of being on your feet for long periods and be able to actively supervise children in a variety of indoor and outdoor environments. Must be capable of bending, kneeling, squatting and lifting 30 pounds. Must be able to visually account for all children in the program, whether inside or outside. Must be able to hear whistle or alarms. Clear speaking voice is needed to command control of group.

  Professional development opportunities and complimentary use of YMCA facilities.

  We are proud to be an EEO/AA/employer M/F/D/V. Employment is subject to extensive background check.

Other details

• Pay Type Hourly

• South Mountain YMCA, 13 JEFFERSON AVE, MAPLEWOOD, New Jersey, United States of America

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