Description
POSITION SUMMARY:
Under the supervision of the Program Director, the Camp G.R.A.C.E Counselor is responsible for leading, caring for, and building relationships with campers with special needs ranging in age from pre-K to young adult.
They are responsible for managing these functions in accordance with the stated mission, goals, and policies established by the administrative staff, governing committees, and Board of Directors of the YMCA.
Camp G.R.A.C.E. runs Monday through Friday 8:30am-2:30pm. Program dates are June 24th, 2024-August 16th, 2024 and requires pre-training for all staff prior to the start date.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Supervises and builds relationships with a group of campers with special needs ranging in age from pre-K to young adult.
• Provide support and assistance with tasks and basic needs as needed for each individual child. This will include assisting with feeding, toileting, diapering, changing clothes, participating in activities, etc.
• Implements program activities that are culturally relevant, developmentally appropriate, and consistent with YMCA values.
• Creates an atmosphere that is fun and safe.
• Models appropriate behavior and social interactions to participants in the program.
• Models and facilitates relationship-building skills in all interactions and maintains positive relationships with campers, parents, school staff, community partners, and other YMCA staff.
• Adheres to YMCA policies and procedures, including those related to medical and disciplinary situations, child abuse prevention, and emergency management.
• Ensures that space and equipment used is clean, and in good condition every day.
• Attends Family Nights, staff meetings, and trainings.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• At least 16 years of age.
• Previous experience working with children or teens with special needs preferred but not required.
• Must have a passion and desire to work with individuals with special needs.
• Experience preferred in one or more of the following areas: outdoor education, planning and organizing activities, crafts, songs/music, skits, sports, recreational games, etc.
• Specific certifications and/or training may be required upon hire.
• Ability to relate effectively to diverse groups of people from all social and economic segments of the community.
• Multi-lingual desired but not required.

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Ability to plan, lead and participate in a range of activities in a variety of outdoor/indoor settings.
• Requires corrected vision and hearing to normal range, or special accommodations made of sufficient nature for completion of assigned tasks.
• Ability to communicate clearly through speech and understanding of the English language.
• Ability to walk, run, stand, kneel, stoop, and manual dexterity.
• Ability to lift a maximum of 40 pounds.