Challenge Course Program Supervisor, Camp Towhee

**Who we are**

As the need for mental health services grows, Child Development Institute (CDI) continues to be the steadfast support and leading provider of specialized mental health services for children and youth aged 0-18 and their families. All of our services are guided by a strength-based approach that incorporates the family and the community into the journey of supporting children and youth.

Trusted with the mental well-being of our community's most sensitive members, infants and children, all of our programming is backed by rigorous research. Science is the backbone which informs our work as we evolve alongside the needs of our community.

We are committed to providing services that are respectful of racial, cultural, religious, ethnic and linguistic diversity, as well as sexual orientation, age, gender and family differences. All our services are delivered by a deeply caring and compassionate team that guides children, youth and families along a mental health journey in a safe, respectful and welcoming space.

**About Towhee**

Camp Towhee/Towhee Summer Therapeutic Program supports youth with mental health challenges complicated by learning disabilities. Located in Haliburton, Ontario, Towhee creates lasting, positive change for campers and staff. Working at Towhee is a uniquely rewarding and transformative experience. We provide 10 days of comprehensive training covering behaviour management, counselling skills, Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI), mental health, and learning disabilities.

If you are pursuing a career in social services, psychology, or teaching—or if you are passionate about creating a safe, supportive environment where children and youth can thrive—Towhee offers hands-on experience, skill development, and the opportunity to make a real impact.

**About EXCEL**

The EXCEL Program allows campers to develop teamwork, trust, and self-confidence through group activities, low-rope initiatives, and high-rope elements. This adventure-based learning program helps cabin groups build communication, collaboration, and social skills in a structured, supportive environment while reinforcing our Challenge by Choice philosophy.

**Who we need**

We are seeking a Challenge Course Program Supervisor to join our dynamic Camp Towhee team. Reporting to the Assistant Director of Programming, this contract position runs from June 16 to August 21, 2025.

As the Challenge Course Program Supervisor, you will oversee the planning and execution of safe, engaging, and intentional adventure programming, including challenge course activities, team initiatives, and high-ropes elements. You will provide supervision, mentorship, and guidance to your staff team while ensuring all programs align with Towhee’s therapeutic approach and meet the needs of each camper.

**As our new Challenge Course Program Supervisor, you will**:

- Ensure the safe operation of the Camp Towhee Challenge Course, including setup, takedown, equipment inspections, and program facilitation.
- Oversee the creation and delivery of intentional, high-quality adventure-based programs tailored to campers’ developmental and therapeutic goals.
- Provide supervision, feedback, and evaluations for the Challenge Course staff team.
- Lead training sessions for staff, ensuring best practices in safety, facilitation, and adventure-based learning.
- Support camp-wide initiatives, including planning and executing themed events and activities.
- Serve as part of the Towhee Supervisor Team, contributing to staff training, team bonding, and leadership development.
- Assist in supervising campers during meals, evening programs, and other daily routines, ensuring a safe and structured environment.
- Conduct high-ropes rescues if required.
- Uphold and communicate Camp Towhee’s policies, practices, and safety procedures, serving as a positive role model for staff and campers.

**You bring**
- Two or more years of post-secondary education or equivalent experience.
- Previous experience working at Towhee or a related program within a camp environment (strongly preferred).
- Experience supervising and managing staff teams.
- Experience facilitating adventure-based learning, including high-ropes and challenge course elements.
- Ropes Course Instructor Certification (CUI Level 2) or willingness to obtain.
- Bronze Cross swimming qualifications or higher (preferred).
- Standard First Aid with CPR-C certification.
- A current and valid police records check with vulnerable sector screening.
- Strong decision-making skills with the ability to adapt to dynamic situations.
- Ability to work respectfully with diverse backgrounds and experiences.

**Working Conditions**
- Fast-paced camp environment with frequent interaction with campers, staff, supervisors, families, and visitors.
- Responsible for overseeing the safe and efficient running of the Camp Towhee Challenge Course, including equipment setup, takedown, and safety inspections.
- May require lifting children (u