Inclusion Camp Specialist

SALARY: $17.17 - $23.00 P/H

The YMCA of Greater New York is here for all New Yorkers — to empower youth, improve health, and strengthen community. Founded in 1852, today the Y serves a diverse population of more than half a million New Yorkers who learn, grow, and thrive through programs and services at our 24 branches. Community is the cornerstone of the Y. Together, we connect active, engaged New Yorkers to build stronger communities.

The Cross Island YMCA is seeking Inclusion Camp Specialist. Under the supervision of the Day Camp Director, the Inclusion Camp Specialist plays a critical role in the successful operation of the Summer Day Camp program, onsite and/or virtual. The Inclusion Camp Specialist is responsible for providing a safe and positive environment for school age children with special needs, to provide opportunities for learning, interaction and academic/personal growth. Summer Day Camp program operates from 8:00am-6:00pm, Monday-Friday, from July 5th through August 26th

Key Responsibilities:

• Ensure the health, safety, and well-being of participants in the program by providing appropriate supervision at all times. Understand, maintain, and ensure that participants follow Risk Management and safety procedures.
• Keep immediate supervisor informed daily of any concerns regarding participants, staff, or the facility.
• Plan and implement meaningful activities, lesson plans and special events that are structured, age-appropriate, fun, exciting, challenging, and values based in the areas of arts, STEM, character development, literacy, creative expression, community service, physical fitness and/or nutrition.
• Perform specific scheduled assignments, including but not limited to: arrival and/or departure, and lunch duty.
• Prepare the learning environment, lessons, and necessary supplies for program activities. Assume responsibility for the cleanliness and organization of the camp room, program supplies, and activity space.
• Support the planning and implementation of all camp activities, including but not limited to summer learning initiatives, field trips, in-camp events, and culminating performances.
• Provide support to Activity Specialists with activity implementation.
• Provide guidance and support to Counselor In Training (CITs), hold CITs accountable for program expectations, and complete and maintain all required CIT paperwork.
• Work cooperatively with all program staff.
• Promote an inclusive, welcoming, and respectful environment that embraces the diversity of all staff and participants.
• Create and maintain a strength-based, youth-focused atmosphere that is consistent and sensitive to the needs of participants with learning, emotional, or behavioral differences.
• Serve as a positive role model for participants.
• Maintain accurate program documentation (attendance, sign in/out forms, behavior reports, incident reports, and accident reports, as appropriate).
• Understand and communicate the YMCA’s core values and the goals of the Summer Day Camp program to staff, participants, and care givers.
• Develop and maintain positive relationships with parents and guardians through regular communication about their child’s strengths and areas of growth. Take a leadership role in providing regular updates (including Snapshots, behavior updates, success stories, etc.) to caregivers.
• Attend all required pre-camp trainings. Actively participate in training sessions, designated meetings, and special events.
• Ensure that groups are in ratio. Provide support and accountability to Day Camp Counselor and ensure that they maintain all program standards, even in your absence.
• Adhere to all Department of Health, YMCA of Greater New York, and funder standards, expectations, and regulations.
• Other activities and duties as needed that address the ongoing health and well-being of our staff and members.
• Maintain sanitary habits in accordance with CDC guidelines.

Desired Skills & Experience:

• High School diploma or equivalent. College Credits preferred.
• Must be 18 years of age or older. Experience working with children with special needs.
• General knowledge of MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office, Zoom and Google Meet.
• Knowledge of Access, Adobe PageMaker and Photoshop preferred.

We offer an exciting and innovative work environment with an organizational culture committed to serving all members of our community. As a leading not-for-profit, community service organization, our Association relies heavily on fundraising to support the wide range of programs we proudly provide the communities we serve. Our expectation is that all staff promotes participation of their branch fundraising efforts in some capacity.

Benefits:

The YMCA of Greater New York offers a variety of benefits to its staff members including retirement benefits, medical, paid-time off, free YMCA membership and more! Benefit eligibility is determined by an individual’s employment status (ie. full-time or part-time), tenure and/or the number of hours scheduled to work. Click here for more information.

How to Apply:

If you would like to be a member of our dynamic team, please complete our online application and submit your résumé and a thoughtful cover letter that explains your interest in the role and our organization.

If you are a current YMCA employee, please submit your application through the Internal Career Site in Cornerstone.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER DRUGFREE WORKPLACE
Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities