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ABOUT US

Sanctuary for Families is New York’s leading service provider and advocate for survivors of domestic violence, sex trafficking and related forms of gender violence. Every year, Sanctuary empowers thousands of adults and children to move from fear and abuse to safety and stability, transforming lives through a comprehensive range of services. We provide a range of wrap-around services to help survivors rebuild their lives in the aftermath of abuse, and work to end gender violence through three key strategies: direct services, outreach and training, and systems-change advocacy. Our services are available in 12 locations throughout New York City.

POSITION OVERVIEW

Program Specialist will help to support the Camp HOPE New York model. This model is a trauma-informed camp which supports campers whose background experience includes gender-based violence and residual trauma. Staff working with this demographic will be empathetic, caring, and knowledgeable about how trauma impacts individuals. This is an overnight camp program in a rustic setting outside of New York City. There are currently (2) openings for this position.

Program Specialists play a key role in delivering high-quality programming and ensuring a safe, engaging, and meaningful camp experience for all participants. Working closely with the Activities Manager, Program Specialists help plan, prepare, set up, lead, and break down core camp activities throughout the week. This role is especially important in ensuring that each activity is ready to run smoothly, including confirming supplies, organizing materials, preparing activity spaces, supporting transitions, and alerting the Activities Manager to any issues that may affect the overall schedule or camper experience. When not leading an activity or during scheduled prep time, Program Specialists serve as members of the Camp HOPE’s leadership team and help support the overall camp community.

Activity areas may include, but are not limited to arts and crafts, athletics, Story time, yoga, scavenger hunts, baking, Camp Olympics, nature and hiking, outdoor living skills, photography, and more.

Program Specialists report to the Activities Manager.

Camp runs from August 19 - 24, 2026.

Program Specialists must attend:

• Pre-camp training for all camp staff in Manhattan on August 8, 2026.
• Two virtual team meetings in August
• Pre-Camp Training in Fishkill August 17 & 18

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Responsible for planning, preparing, setting up, leading, and breaking down all core camp activities, alongside the Activities Manager.
• Provide supervision and guidance to campers during activities, promoting participation, teamwork, and skill growth. ?
• Communicate promptly with the Activities Manager about supply needs, schedule concerns, camper needs, staffing issues, or any challenges that may affect programming.
• Supervise and collaborate with staff assigned to the activity area, effectively utilizing their skills to enhance program quality.
• Maintain program equipment and supplies, keeping the activity area organized and clean; may involve lifting and moving program materials.
• Provide 24-hour supervision, leadership, and care to campers, including activity transitions, cabin time, meals, and behavior management.
• Foster a supportive, inclusive environment where all campers feel valued and safe.
• Prioritize camper needs when making decisions and uphold a camper-first philosophy.
• Participate actively in the camp community — including campfires, overnights, hikes, swimming, and village meetings. (Some lifting or physical activity may be required.)
• Communicate, model, and uphold camp policies, traditions, and community standards.
• Ensure the safety, supervision and well-being of all campers at all times.
• Demonstrate professionalism and approachability, maintaining healthy boundaries. Serve as a role model for campers and staff by showing enthusiasm, empathy, and commitment to camp values.
• Live and work in a communal camp environment — including shared cabins, limited privacy, and group dining. Time off during each session will be scheduled by the supervisor.
• Care for and responsibly use camp facilities, property, and equipment.
• Be familiar with and follow all emergency and safety procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the success of the camp community.

• A minimum of one year of experience working with children or teens is required; experience with youth ages 12–17 is strongly preferred.
• At least two years of college or equivalent experience preferred.

Additional Experience:

• Experience leading, teaching, or facilitating activities for children or youth is preferred.
• Strong organizational skills, including the ability to prepare supplies, manage materials, follow schedules, and keep activity areas clean and ready.
• Ability to lead engaging, hands-on, age-appropriate activities that encourage participation, creativity, teamwork, and confidence.
• Emotionally mature, dependable, and able to remain calm, flexible, and positive in a busy residential camp environment.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with supervisors, staff, and campers.
• Willingness to learn and follow trauma-informed, camper-centered practices when working with children and teens who have experienced violence at home.
• Comfortable working and living in an outdoor, communal camp environment, including shared cabins, limited privacy, group dining, physical activity, and a full camp schedule.

Budgeted Salary: $1000

Work position is Full-time

Work schedule is currently In-person; must be able to meet job location schedule obligations

Benefits:

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Sanctuary for Families is a welcoming workplace. All qualified applicants will be afforded equal employment opportunities without discrimination because of race, creed (religion), color, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, military status, age, disability, predisposing genetic characteristics, marital status or domestic violence victim status, and other categories protected under Federal, New York state or New York city laws.

Survivors of gender-based violence are strongly encouraged to apply.