Summer Nature Program Director

_The mission of Hidden Acres Mennonite Camp and Retreat Centre is to provide a welcoming, peaceful gathering place where diverse groups of people experience life-giving connections with God, one another, and nature. _

The Nature Program Director helps to achieve one of the key parts of the camp's mission statement, helping others connect with nature. Through our nature program, campers and staff will gain a stronger understanding of the natural world around them and foster a greater appreciation for the need to care for it.

**Requirements for all Staff**
- While the program is running, living on site is an expectation and room and board are provided.
- Motivated to make a difference and have a positive impact on our society and community.
- Has a genuine love for, and interest in, working with children, including those who have emotional, physical, behavioural, or developmental special needs, in an inclusive summer camp program.
- Has knowledge of the Christian faith and is willing to work supportively in a faith-based setting.
- Is able to find a healthy balance between following directions and taking initiative to see what needs to be done and do it.
- Is able to find a healthy balance between working hard to accomplish what needs to be done, achieving personal goals, motivating others to have fun while having fun yourself, and contributing to meeting the mission of Hidden Acres.
- Demonstrates flexibility, an ability to change tasks or directions with ease, and a willingness to assist cooperatively in a variety of tasks and programs as time allows.
- Displays patience, a commitment to working well with others, and the ability to solve sometimes complex problems. This is all done while maintaining a positive attitude towards others and assigned tasks.
- Models excellent leadership behaviours and participates in all aspects of camp life.
- First Aid, CPR and/or lifeguarding qualifications (NL certification or higher) are an asset, but not required.
- Is able to participate in our two Staff Orientation events: May 2-4 and June 22-27

**Requirements for the Nature Program Director**
- Is able to creatively and enthusiastically organize and effectively lead small and large-group activities for campers and staff.
- Has interest, knowledge and skills in the area of nature study, environmental education and environmental issues as well as an understanding of, and sensitivity to, a Christian stewardship

approach to nature and resource management.
- Has a willingness to continue work on the development of all of the camp’s nature study areas.

**Responsibilities**
- Prior to school groups and summer camp starting, read reports from past Nature Program Directors.
- Plan, prepare and implement the nature program activities and curriculum for the summer. This includes ordering supplies, planning curriculum, producing a “Nature Activity/Environmental Encounters” book for campers, training and supporting other staff to help implement aspects of the program, scheduling, etc.
- Responsible for the care and maintenance of nature centre areas and trails (e.g. sweeping/vacuuming, pruning, trail grooming, mulching, etc.).
- Be available to help in other areas of the camp program as a member of the staff team as needed.
- Assist with updating the trail guide for Hidden Acres’ nature trails.
- Continue to develop the camp's natural habitat areas for nature study/environmental education:

- Evaluate site potential for nature study, ecological features and environmental concerns.
- Contribute to the ongoing development of broader use of camp facilities for environmental awareness.
- Submit a written report, due within **two**weeks of camping ending that includes a description of your program area of responsibility, an evaluation of the programs, a final inventory of supplies (if applicable), and recommendations for the next year.
- The Nature Director is responsible to the Summer Camp Director.

**Job Type**: Seasonal
Contract length: 2-4 months

Pay: $400.00-$450.00 per week

**Education**:

- Secondary School (preferred)

Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 2025-04-11
Expected start date: 2025-06-09