Summer Camp Counsellor

**Overview**: We are seeking a compassionate and enthusiastic individual to join our team as a Summer Camp Counselor for Youth with Special Needs. In this role, you will play a pivotal part in creating a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment where campers with diverse abilities can thrive and make lasting memories. Your dedication and support will empower campers to participate in recreational activities, develop social skills, and build self-confidence while enjoying a memorable summer camp experience.

**Responsibilities**:

- **Direct Support**: Provide direct support and supervision to campers with special needs throughout daily camp activities, ensuring their safety and well-being at all times.
- **Inclusion Facilitation**: Foster an inclusive environment by promoting understanding, respect, and acceptance among campers, encouraging positive interactions and friendships.
- **Adaptation**: Adapt camp activities and programs to meet the unique needs and abilities of each camper, ensuring accessibility and participation for all.
- **Behavior Management**: Implement behavior management strategies to support campers in managing emotions and behaviors effectively, utilizing positive reinforcement and de-escalation techniques.
- **Personal Care**: Assist campers with personal care tasks, including toileting, grooming, and feeding, as needed, while respecting their dignity and independence.
- **Communication**: Maintain open and effective communication with campers, their families, and other camp staff members, providing regular updates on camper progress, challenges, and achievements.
- **Team Collaboration**: Collaborate with other camp counselors and support staff to plan and facilitate engaging activities, outings, and special events that cater to the diverse needs and interests of campers.
- **Safety and Emergency Response**: Follow established safety protocols and procedures to ensure the well-being of campers and staff members, including emergency preparedness and response.
- **Role Modeling**: Serve as a positive role model for campers, demonstrating empathy, patience, and enthusiasm in all interactions and activities.
- **Professional Development**: Participate in training sessions, workshops, and team meetings to enhance knowledge and skills in supporting individuals with special needs and promoting inclusive practices.

**Qualifications**:

- Previous experience working with individuals with special needs, preferably in a camp or recreational setting.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build rapport and establish positive relationships with campers and colleagues.
- Compassion, patience, and empathy for individuals with diverse abilities and backgrounds.
- Ability to adapt activities and interventions to meet the unique needs and preferences of campers.
- Flexibility, resilience, and the ability to effectively manage challenging situations with professionalism and composure.
- CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire).
- Commitment to promoting inclusion, diversity, and equity in all aspects of camp programming and culture.

**Schedule**: This is a seasonal position for the duration of the summer camp program, typically running from now to August 31st. The schedule may include weekdays, evenings, and occasional weekends, with opportunities for additional training and professional development.

Join us in making a meaningful difference in the lives of campers with special needs, and be part of a supportive and inclusive camp community dedicated to fostering growth, friendship, and fun

**Job Types**: Full-time, Seasonal
Contract length: 3 months

**Benefits**:

- Flexible schedule
- Paid time off

Flexible Language Requirement:

- French not required

Schedule:

- Day shift
- Monday to Friday

Supplemental pay types:

- Overtime pay

Ability to commute/relocate:

- Caledonia, ON N3W 1B1: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (preferred)

Application question(s):

- Do you have a full G license, and a vehicle? Are you willing to transport clients to field trips?

**Education**:

- Secondary School (preferred)

**Experience**:

- Behaviour management: 1 year (required)

Work Location: In person