Inclusion Program Director

Join to apply for the Inclusion Program Director role at YMCA of Greater Halifax/Dartmouth Title: Inclusion Program DirectorLocation: Big Cove Camp, Thorburn, NSPosition Status: Full-Time TemporaryStart Date: June 2026Compensation: $650+ per week About the Role The Inclusion Program Director is responsible for planning, implementing, and evaluating all camp-wide programming with a focus on inclusive practices, accessibility, and belonging. This role ensures that all activities and experiences meet the diverse needs of campers and create a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment. In This Role, You Will Program Leadership & Development Plan, implement, and evaluate all camp-wide programming with a focus on inclusion, accessibility, and belonging Create weekly schedules for cabin groups, program areas, and special events Ensure all activities are developmentally appropriate, engaging, and adaptable for diverse camper needs Oversee specialty programs, theme days, evening programs, and camp-wide events Support risk management by ensuring programs follow YMCA policies, safety standards, and behaviour expectations Inclusive Practice & Camper Support Adapt activities, environments, and materials to increase accessibility and participation Provide on-the-ground support for campers with diverse needs, including social–emotional, behavioural, cultural, and neurodivergent needs Collaborate closely with the Camper Care Manager and Leadership Manager to support individualized camper success plans Model and promote inclusive facilitation, restorative approaches, and trauma-informed practices Ensure programming reflects diverse cultures, identities, and learning styles Staff Leadership & Coaching Train staff in inclusive program delivery, behaviour support, and accessible activity adaptation Mentor program instructors, counsellors, and leadership staff to improve quality and consistency Lead program-area team meetings, ensuring communication, preparation, and alignment across departments Provide supportive, strengths-based feedback to staff throughout the summer Assist with conflict resolution, problem solving, and maintaining a positive, collaborative team culture Collaboration & Communication Work alongside the Assistant Director and other Directors to deliver a cohesive, mission-driven camp experience Communicate program expectations, schedules, and adaptations clearly to staff Participate in daily leadership meetings and contribute to planning, documentation, and decision-making Support coordination between programming, leadership, camper care, and operations teams Risk Management & Safety Ensure all program areas follow safety protocols, supervision standards, and YMCA guidelines Monitor equipment, spaces, and program areas to maintain safe, accessible environments Support emergency response procedures as part of the seasonal leadership team Contribute to incident documentation and follow-up Camp Operations Support Assist with kitchen duties, including dishes and meal cleanup Support facility maintenance, including cleaning shared spaces and program areas Participate in groundskeeping and basic outdoor upkeep Assist with trail and campsite maintenance to ensure safe and accessible program spaces Education and Skills Qualifications Education & Experience Experience in camp programming, recreational leadership, child and youth development, education, or a related field Demonstrated experience working with children and youth with diverse needs, including behavioral, social–emotional, neurodivergent, and accessibility needs Experience planning and facilitating inclusive, engaging, and developmentally appropriate programs Experience providing training, coaching, or leadership to staff or volunteers (asset) Experience adapting activities or environments to support participation for campers with varying abilities and learning styles Knowledge & Specialized Skills Strong understanding of inclusive practices, accessibility standards, and DEI principles in youth settings Knowledge of trauma-informed approaches, behavioural support strategies, and restorative practices Ability to design and modify programs to meet diverse cultural, social, emotional, and developmental needs Understanding of risk management, safety protocols, and child safeguarding practices in a camp or recreation environment Leadership & Professional Skills Strong leadership and team-building abilities, with the capacity to support, mentor, and motivate staff Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively across departments Strong problem-solving, decision-making, and adaptability skills in dynamic, fast-paced environments Ability to manage schedules, organize large-scale programming, and maintain consistent program quality Ability to model YMCA values and maintain a positive, inclusive, and professional presence Personal Attributes Inclusive and compassionate leadership style that supports belonging for all campers and staff Patience, empathy, and sound judgment when supporting children and youth with varying needs Creative, flexible, and proactive approach to program development and problem-solving Strong work ethic and commitment to fostering a safe, supportive, and equitable camp environment To Apply Please apply online at . Successful candidates are required to provide a Criminal Record Check, Vulnerable Sector Check, and Child Abuse Register Check (less than 6 months old) if 18 years of age or older, and a valid First Aid and CPR Training. At the YMCA, we are committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace where every team member feels valued, respected, and empowered to bring their full, authentic self to work. We believe that a variety of perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences enrich our organization. Equal Opportunity Employer As an equal opportunity employer, we welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including Black, Indigenous, People of Colour, racially diverse, 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, gender‑diverse people, people with diverse abilities, members of ethnic minorities and faith groups, foreign‑born residents, and veterans. If you require accommodation during the hiring process, please inform us in advance to arrange reasonable and appropriate accommodation. #J-18808-Ljbffr