Summer Camp Counselor

Dreams With Wings is looking for creative, compassionate, and responsible advocates looking for a meaningful, fulfilling, and fun summer job as Camp Counselors/Direct Support Professionals to support individuals with Autism and Down syndrome. This is the perfect job for anyone looking for a summer job who is drawn to work with children and young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities or is interested in a career in special education, physical therapy, occupational therapy, behavior supports, speech therapy, psychology, or social work.

Purpose:

The essential purpose of Summer Camp Counselors is to act as an enthusiastic and motivating role model for the individuals they serve. They will also be responsible for their assigned campers, leading them in activities, while ensuring that they have a safe, fun, and exciting summer. The Summer Camp Counselors will report to Summer Camp Leads. This individual will have to be 18 years of age or older.

Performance Responsibilities:

1. Camp Counselors fully embrace the mission, philosophy, vision, and core values of Dreams With Wings. The mission, philosophy, and values will be reflected in their everyday work.

2. Camp Counselors will abide by all camp rules and Dreams With Wings’ Code of Conduct to set an example for the campers that they serve.

3. Camp counselors will complete assigned training prior to working directly with campers as required by the KY State Department of Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities.

4. Camp Counselors will act as role models to the individuals that they serve, always treating each person with dignity and respect.

5. Camp Counselors will communicate with Head Counselors and Camp Administrators any atypical situations that may occur while at camp, and report any suspected abuse or neglect immediately.

6. Camp Counselors will be responsible for their assigned campers ensuring that:

   1. a. Campers are safe, and well supervised at all times (including riding in vehicles, crossing streets, exiting buildings, etc.)

   2. b. Campers are cared for and assisted in basic needs they might have (including bathrooming, changing clothes, eating, etc.)

   3. c. Campers have all items they may need for the day prior to leaving for an activity (lunches, backpacks, medications, bathing suits, etc.)

7. Camp Counselors will assist the Head Counselors and Camp Administrators to ensure the following: a. The facilities, equipment, and vehicles are safe and clean each day

   1. At the end of each day, put games and materials away, wipe tables, and clean up garbage in their rooms and building.

   2. Clean out trash in the vehicles daily and check for and report any damage/problems.

8. Camp Counselors will participate in all activities to motivate and encourage the campers to participate.

9. Camp counselors will work as a team to establish regular morning circles to get everyone active and engaged at the beginning of the camp day.

10. Camp counselors will work together to develop activities that may be used if scheduled activities change due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.

11. Camp Counselors will bring their lunch each day and eat lunch with the campers.

12. Camp Counselors will provide assistance and support to assigned campers, providing adaptations if needed to ensure all campers can participate in activities.

13. Camp Counselors will complete necessary paperwork, including Therap notes, attendance records, and end of day sheets on time and as needed.

14. Camp Counselors will learn individual needs of each assigned camper, including allergies, health needs and behavior plan if needed.

15. Camp Counselors will complete any other necessary tasks as determined by the Head Counselors and/or the Camp Administrators.

Qualifications:

The Direct Support Professional will possess the minimum qualifications:

• Education and Experience: High School Diploma or the equivalent is preferred

• At least 18 years of age.

• Lifting of individuals may be required.

• Training in First Aid/CPR is required. (Provided by DWW)

• Annual TB test is required.

Experience:

• Experience working with individuals with Intellectual or Developmental Disabilities including Autism is strongly preferred.

• Valid Driver’s License and proof of up-to-date auto insurance is required.

Work Schedule:

• Temporary Full-time or part-time (June and July)

Employment Status:

• Non-exempt, Hourly

Occupational Exposure Classification:

• All employees in this job classification are reasonably anticipated to have routine occupational exposure to potentially hazardous blood borne pathogens. Lifting will be required.