Job Summary:
The Summer Camp Counselor is responsible for creating a safe, inclusive, engaging, and supportive environment for children ages 5–12 with and without disabilities. Counselors provide daily supervision, facilitate recreational and educational activities, encourage independence, and support the social, emotional, and developmental needs of all campers. The ideal candidate is energetic, patient, compassionate, and committed to helping children build confidence, friendships, and positive decision-making skills
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Child Supervision & Safety
- Provide active supervision to ensure the safety and well-being of all children at all times
- Maintain awareness and engagement during all activities, including meals, transitions, and field trips
- Follow all organizational policies, safety procedures, and emergency protocols
- Respond appropriately to incidents and ensure a safe, structured environment
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Program Implementation & Activity Facilitation
- Plan, lead, and participate in structured camp activities including arts and crafts, games, sports, STEM activities, sensory play, music, and outdoor recreation
- Support children in participating fully in daily programming and group activities
- Assist with daily routines and transitions to ensure a smooth and organized schedule
- Promote engagement, creativity, and participation through age-appropriate activities
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Behavior Support & Inclusion
- Reinforce positive behavior through redirection, encouragement, and consistent expectations
- Support children with varying abilities by providing individualized assistance and accommodations as needed
- Promote inclusion, teamwork, and respectful interactions among children
- Support social and emotional development through guided problem-solving and conflict resolution
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Communication & Team Collaboration
- Communicate effectively with camp leadership, team members, and families as needed
- Collaborate with team members to ensure consistency in supervision, programming, and behavior support
- Share relevant updates regarding child behavior, participation, and needs
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Environment & Professional Standards
- Maintain a clean, organized, and welcoming environment
- Serve as a positive role model by demonstrating professionalism, patience, and enthusiasm
- Uphold organizational standards and contribute to a positive team culture
Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Experience working with children ages 5–12 preferred.
- Special Education, childcare, behavioral health, or related experience preferred.
- Knowledge of inclusive practices and working with children with disabilities is highly desirable.
- Strong communication, teamwork, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to remain calm, flexible, and patient in a fast-paced environment.
- CPR and First Aid Certification preferred.
- Ability to pass required background checks and screenings.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to actively participate in indoor and outdoor activities.
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, lift, and engage with children throughout the day.
- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
Work Environment
Summer Camp Counselors work in a dynamic childcare and recreational setting that may include classrooms, playgrounds, gyms, courtyards, and gardens. This position requires energy, creativity, flexibility, and a commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive camp experience for all children.
Company Description
Since 1992 Harbor House of Louisville has provided day services to adults with intellectual disabilities, giving them opportunities to build social, emotional, and cognitive skills through participation in employment, performing arts, health and wellness, and visual arts.
Now Harbor House is expanding to bring these same outstanding day services to children and seniors of all abilities—meaning with and without disabilities—on an intergenerational model where all three groups will engage daily in meaningful opportunities aimed at improving their lives. What does that mean? It means that children, adults, and seniors of all abilities will read, sing, dance, paint, draw, and even exercise together.
We moved into our new 36,000-square-foot Intergenerational Life Center in October 2023, and are now weaving children and seniors into our family, beginning with before- and after-school programs and seniors in 2024, and 105 children of all abilities, ages 6 weeks to 5 years, when our previous 8,000-square-foot building is renovated into a Child Enrichment Center by spring 2025.
Harbor House. Weaving a tapestry of love, hope, and empowerment.