[Ncabs] California Camp Counselor

[Alan A. Chase]

Enchanted Hills Camp Counselor
POSITION:
Camp Counselor
REPORTS TO:
Camp Director
STATUS:
Non-Exempt
JOB PURPOSE:
As a residential camp for the blind, camp counselors are responsible for the
overall provision of a traditional camp experience to all blind and visually
impaired campers including but not limited to: Inventing new blind-friendly
programming, motivating campers to use non-visual techniques, adapting all
activities so that all campers can participate fully regardless of their
level of vision. Incorporating active participation in camp meals, clean up
and other daily functions through fun activities. Counselors provide
supervision to recreational activities, providing educational experiences,
promoting independence, supervision of health and safety of children and
adults. Applicant must also have the ability to work with campers with
secondary disabilities i.e. developmental, hearing impairments and mobility
restrictions
AGENCY EXPECTATIONS OF EMPLOYEES:
As employees, we should:
. Read, understand, and adhere to all Agency policies and procedures.
. Conduct ourselves in a professional manner on and off the job, knowing
that we are representatives of LightHouse.
. Perform all job responsibilities.
. Maintain a positive and respectful attitude toward everyone.
. Communicate regularly and appropriately with our supervisors, and
colleagues within our own departments.
. Demonstrate efficient time management and the ability to prioritize our
assignments.
. Consistently report to work on time, and be ready to begin performing our
assigned duties and responsibilities.
. Work productively.
. Continue to learn and communicate a blindness-positive philosophy based on
best current practices in the field.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Education or equivalent: High school graduate/College education preferred:
Must be 18 years of age or older.
Must be able to obtain or become certified in First Aid/CPR.
Experience: Previous work in a camp, school or community service setting.
. Other: Experience working with individuals who are blind/visually impaired
preferred but not required
ACCOUNTABILITIES:
1. Assist in the direction, supervision, and organization of campers in
their living unit, within activities and throughout the camp in order to
meet the intended camper outcomes.

* Apply basic youth and blindness skill development principles in
working with campers through communication, relationship development, and
respect for diversity, involvement and empowerment of youth.
* Understand basic adult learning modalities
* Assure campers are properly supervised at all times.
* Be aware of and implement safety guidelines.

2. Participate in the development and implementation of program activities
designed specifically for blind campers within the mission and outcomes.

* Responsible for leading and assisting with the teaching of
activities.
* Actively participate in all program areas as assigned.
* Provide for the progression of activities within the framework of
individual and group interests and abilities.
* Assist in program areas such as waterfront, nature, all camp
activities, and arts and crafts as directed.

3. Maintain high standards of health and safety in all activities for
campers and staff.

* Provide the daily care of each camper within your supervision
including recognition of personal health needs.
* Ensure that campers receive their medications as directed by health
care manager.
* Be alert to campers and staff needs and discuss with camp health
manager and/or resident camp director when appropriate.
* Be alert to equipment and facilities to ensure utilization, proper
care, and maintenance is adhered to; report repairs needed promptly to camp
director.

4. Be a role model to campers and staff in your attitude and behavior
towards blindness.

* Follow and uphold all safety and security rules and procedures.
* Set a good example to campers and others in regard to general camp
procedures and practices including sanitation, schedule, and sportsmanship.

Other Job Duties:

* Contribute to verbal and written evaluations and communication as
requested.
* Participate enthusiastically in all camp activities, planning, and
leading those as assigned.
* Participate as a member of the camp staff team to deliver and
supervise evening programs, special events, overnights, and other all-camp
activities and camp functions.
* Stay current on best practices by reading, viewing instructional
media and active participation before and during camp.

Physical Aspects of the Job:

* Must be able to transport 50 pounds
* Ability to enforce safety and emergency procedures.
* Ability to identify and respond to environmental and other hazards
related to the activity.
* Physical ability to respond appropriately to situations requiring
first aid. Must be able to assist campers in an emergency (fire, evacuation,
illness, or injury) and possess strength and endurance required to maintain
constant supervision of campers.

Other duties may also be assigned
WORKING CONDITIONS:
Equal opportunity to all regardless of race, color, creed, national origin,
ancestry, sex, marital status, disability, religious or political
affiliation, age, or sexual orientation.
All employees at LightHouse are hired for an indefinite and unspecified
duration and consequently, no employee is guaranteed employment for a
specified length of time. Employment is at the mutual consent of the
employee and LightHouse. Accordingly, either the employee or LightHouse can
terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause
("employment at will").
Download the Application for Employment, EHC 2013
<http://lighthouse-sf.org/wp-site/wp-content/uploads/Employment-APP-2013.doc
> . Please complete the entire application, and return it to Human
Resources, at the LightHouse for the Blind and Visually Impaired.

-- 
*Alan A. Chase, M.Ed.*
Occupational Course of Study Teacher, New Hanover County Schools
Program Coordinator, Envisioning Youth Empowerment Retreat
President, North Carolina Association of Blind Students
Secretary, Governor Morehead School Alumni Association