Summer Disability Inclusion Jobs in Ridgefield, CT

Description

Job Summary:

At the YWCA White Plains & Central Westchester, we believe every child deserves to feel seen, supported, and fully included. YWCA Summer Camps is more than a summer program-it's a place where children build confidence, form friendships, and experience the joy of simply being a kid. 

We are seeking compassionate, energetic, and dependable direct support professionals to serve as Inclusion Support Counselors, providing dedicated 1:1 support to individuals with developmental disabilities throughout our 8-week summer camps. 

In this role, you are more than a counselor-you are a bridge. You help ensure that every camper can participate, belong, and thrive in all aspects of camp life. Whether it's supporting a camper in the pool, encouraging participation in group activities, or helping navigate transitions throughout the day, your presence makes inclusion real. 

This is a hands-on, high-impact role for someone who leads with patience, empathy, and a genuine belief in the potential of every child. You'll work alongside a team committed to equity, access, and creating meaningful experiences for all campers, while supporting individual needs in a way that is respectful, empowering, and rooted in dignity. 

Grounded in person-centered practices and aligned with OPWDD standards and core competencies, this role blends structure with heart-supporting not just safety and participation, but growth, independence, and joy. At the YWCA White Plains & Central Westchester, we believe every child deserves to feel seen, supported, and fully included. YWCA Summer Camps is more than a summer program-it's a place where children build confidence, form friendships, and experience the joy of simply being a kid. 

We are seeking compassionate, energetic, and dependable direct support professionals to serve as Inclusion Support Counselors, providing dedicated 1:1 support to individuals with developmental disabilities throughout our 8-week summer camps. 

In this role, you are more than a counselor-you are a bridge. You help ensure that every camper can participate, belong, and thrive in all aspects of camp life. Whether it's supporting a camper in the pool, encouraging participation in group activities, or helping navigate transitions throughout the day, your presence makes inclusion real. 

This is a hands-on, high-impact role for someone who leads with patience, empathy, and a genuine belief in the potential of every child. You'll work alongside a team committed to equity, access, and creating meaningful experiences for all campers, while supporting individual needs in a way that is respectful, empowering, and rooted in dignity. 

Grounded in person-centered practices and aligned with OPWDD standards and core competencies, this role blends structure with heart-supporting not just safety and participation, but growth, independence, and joy. 

Requirements

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide 1:1 supervision and support to ensure camper safety, engagement, and inclusion throughout the day  
• Support participation in all camp activities including swimming, gymnastics, sports, arts & crafts, and group programming 
• Adapt activities to meet the camper's needs, abilities, and interests  
• Assist with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) as needed (e.g., toileting, feeding, transitions)  
• Implement behavioral support strategies using positive reinforcement and redirection 
• Promote social interaction, confidence, and independence 
• Maintain line-of-sight supervision and respond calmly to any safety or behavioral concerns  
• Assist with mobility and transitions throughout the facility and campgrounds  
• Complete required daily documentation, including progress notes and incident reports 
• Serve as a positive role model and contribute to a supportive, inclusive camp culture 

Core Competencies:

• Person-Centered Support: Tailoring support to the individual's preferences and strengths 
• Communication: Engaging effectively with campers, families, and team members 
• Health & Safety Awareness: Always maintaining a safe environment 
• Behavioral Support: Using proactive and responsive strategies 
• Professionalism & Ethics: Upholding dignity, respect, and confidentiality 
• Mandated Reporting: Understanding and adhering to Justice Center requirements 
• Team Collaboration: Working closely with camp staff and leadership 

Qualifications:

• Must be 18 years or older 
• High School Diploma or GED required 
• Experience working with children or individuals with developmental disabilities strongly preferred 
• Background in camp, recreation, education, gymnastics or human services a plus 
• Ability to remain patient, attentive, and engaged in a fast-paced environment 
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills 
• Bilingual (highly preferred) 

Certifications & Requirements:

• Must pass required background checks (Justice Center, DOH, etc.) 
• CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain) 
• Completion of required OPWDD/DSP & Camp specific trainings upon hire 
• Working Conditions Full-day camp schedule (Monday-Friday) during the 8-week summer program 
• Work takes place both indoors and outdoors, including aquatics and recreational spaces 
• Active role requiring standing, walking, and assisting campers throughout the day 
• May include supporting individuals with physical, behavioral, or sensory needs 

Preferred Qualifications (Add-On):

• Completion of Direct Support Professional (DSP) Core Competency training aligned with OPWDD standards is preferred. Candidates with or working toward certification through the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP) are strongly encouraged.

Compensation:

$19.50-$22.00 per hour