Lead Counselor - Arts Camp

The  Lead Counselor Arts Camp reports to the Arts Camp Director. In this role, the lead counselor works with and supports other counselors in ArtsCamp planning, execution, and overall operations including: activities, workshops, events, and performances for the safety and support of participants and staff which will include promoting YMCA core values and encourage lifelong learning. Arts Camp Lead Counselors will be responsible for ensuring lesson plans are written for each camp they are overseeing, prior to the start of the camp season, and that supply orders are submitted to the Arts Camp Director in time for the supplies to arrive before the start of camp. Lead Counselors will be responsible for leading teams and teach camps in their discipline. Each Arts Camp Lead Counselor is responsible for developing, planning, and executing various aspects of the Arts Camp program, as well as assisting with staff oversight and development to ensure a safe, engaging, and creative camp experience. Additionally, Lead Counselors will be the point person for parents during drop-off and pick-up times. 

Reports to Director – Day Camp 

1. PROGRAM MANAGEMENT 

Assist in planning and execution of programs to meet the needs of the community and fulfill YMCA objectives. Responsible for assisting in the compliance in all related areas including the Department of Early Education & Care (EEC) licensing procedures and regulations, assist in working towards increased Quality Rating Improvement System (QRIS) levels as determined by SACC goals and promoting YUSA Healthy Eating Physical Activity (HEPA) standards. Provide reasonable accommodations to allow children with disabilities to participate in activities whenever possible and to meet each child’s individual needs according to EEC and ADA. 

2. STAFF ENGAGEMENT & DEVELOPMENT 

Assist in supervision of program participants in accordance with the organization's policies, EEC regulations, applicable laws and QRIS Standards. Monitor and communicate with Arts Camp Director all staff related EEC, QRIS, and South Shore YMCA requirements. 

3. MEMBERSHIP ENGAGEMENT & DEVELOPMENT 

Builds relationships with and among families and members, assists in responding to inquiries and solves problems. Creates a supportive community environment, assists in recruiting and engaging new families, and connects families to the YMCA’s cause. 

4. FACILITY MANAGEMENT 

Works with the ArtsCamp Director and other Camp Staff members to ensure that program facilities and equipment for children are safe, clean, adequately equipped, well maintained, and attractive. 

5. VOLUNTEER DEVELOPMENT 

Responsible for assisting to engage and work with volunteers. 

6. COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT & SUPPORT 

Assists in YMCA fundraising activities/events, and engages in collaborative relationships with community organizations in order to strengthen support and build community. 

CORE COMPETENCIES REQUIRED FOR SUCCESS AT THE YMCA- Leader Level 

Mission and Community Oriented – Accepts and demonstrates YMCA values. Work effectively with people of all backgrounds and levels. Willingness to serve and fulfill community needs. Recruit volunteers and build supportive relationships with them. 

People Oriented – Remains calm in challenging situations and seeks to understand the underlying cause. Speaks and writes effectively. Develops rapport, relates well and takes initiative to assist in developing others. 

Results Oriented – Discovers ideas to create and deliver a high-value member experience. Makes sound judgments, establishes goals, plans work, supports fundraising, and adheres to budgeting procedures. 

Personal Development – Recognizes personal strengths and limitations, pursues self-development and demonstrates flexibility. 

CORE COMPETENCIES ESSENTIAL FOR CARING FOR AND EDUCATING CHILDREN & YOUTH 

• Understanding the Growth and Development of Children and Youth 

• Guiding and Interacting with Children and Youth 

• Partnering with Families and Communities 

• Health, Safety, and Nutrition 

• Learning Environments and Implementing Curriculum 

• Observation, Assessment, and Documentation 

• Program Planning and Development 

• Professionalism and Leadership 

   

   

Qualifications: 

Experience in a full day camp setting required 

Experience with school age children is preferred 

• Hands on experience with theatre, music, dance, visual arts, and/or digital media required 

• Experience teaching within an arts discipline highly recommended 

• Knowledge and experience with the Department of Early Education and Care regulations and QRIS Standards is preferred. 

• The ability to develop positive, effective working relationships with staff, children & families, volunteers, school administrators, members, community leaders and other agencies are critical to this position. 
•  Effective teaching skills, the ability to implement methods to address and follow up with family needs/concerns in a positive and professional way reflecting an attitude that values diversity. 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS 

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to: climb stairs, bend, stoop, kneel, twist, reach with hands, sit, stand for an extended period of time, walk, lift and/or move up to 25 pounds, have finger dexterity, grasp, perform repetitive motions, talk, hear and have visual acuity. Activities that may be required as part of the job are climbing, running, swimming, dancing, and other physical and outdoor activities. Please note that all Lead Counselors are required to swim with the campers daily.