What are the responsibilities and job description for the Summer Camp YKI Counselor position at NEW CANAAN COMMUNITY YMCA, INC.?
Spend your summer outside, making memories and making a difference at New Canaan YMCA Camp Y-Ki. As a Summer Camp Counselor, you’ll lead games, crafts, and adventures at beautiful Kiwanis Park, working with energetic kids in a classic outdoor camp setting. This is the perfect job if you love being active, enjoy working with children, and want a fun, supportive team environment. You’ll build leadership skills, make new friends, and have a summer full of laughter, sunshine, and fun, all while creating unforgettable experiences for our campers
The Camp Counselor is responsible for creating a positive, safe, and engaging camp experience for all participants. Counselors serve as role models, mentors, and leaders—ensuring that every camper feels included, supported, and inspired to grow. Through enthusiasm, creativity, and teamwork, counselors bring the YMCA’s core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility to life each day.
Essential Responsibilities:
● Supervise and actively engage with a group of campers in daily camp activities, ensuring
safety and fun at all times.
● Plan and lead a variety of age-appropriate activities, including arts & crafts, sports,
games, swimming, and special events.
● Foster a positive and inclusive environment that encourages teamwork, confidence, and
friendship among campers.
● Serve as a positive role model for campers by demonstrating respect, leadership, and enthusiasm.
● Support campers’ emotional and social development through encouragement, guidance, and patience.
● Maintain effective communication with camp leadership, staff, and parents as needed.
● Assist with setup, cleanup, and organization of camp spaces and materials.
● Follow all YMCA policies, safety standards, and emergency procedures.
● Participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and special events as required.
Qualifications:
● Minimum age: 16 years (or as required by state and YMCA policies).
● Prior experience working with children preferred.
● Strong communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills.
● Ability to be flexible, energetic, and positive in a fast-paced environment.
● Must enjoy being outdoors and working with children.
● CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain before camp begins).
Work Environment:
● Seasonal summer position (approximately 6–8 weeks).
● Work is performed primarily outdoors in varying weather conditions.
● Must be able to stand, run, and participate in active play throughout the day.
YMCA Competencies (Leader Level):
● Mission Advancement: Models and teaches the Y’s values and mission.
● Collaboration: Works effectively with peers, campers, and families.
● Operational Effectiveness: Ensures program quality and camper safety.
● Personal Growth: Demonstrates initiative, adaptability, and enthusiasm
Camp Counselor will:
• Adhere to policies related to boundaries with consumers.
• Attend required abuse risk management training.
• Adhere to procedures related to managing high-risk activities and supervising consumers.
• Report suspicious or inappropriate behaviors and policy violations.
• Follow mandated abuse reporting requirements.
Salary : $16