[Nfbc-info] Enchanted Hills Camp for the Blind - Summer Sessions and Youth Counselor in Training Opportunities Available

Mon Mar 14 16:33:04 UTC 2016

Enchanted Hills Camp Applications are Available but Spaces are Going Fast!
We're offering new and familiar camp programs this summer to educate and delight. We're bringing back the special sessions you love like Horse Camp, Woodworking Camp and an extended Music Academy. Below is a list of this year's sessions.

For more information or to sign up, please contact us at 415-694-7310 or EHC at lighthouse-sf.org.

Enchanted Hills Camp Sessions for 2016
Providers Weekend - May 20 to May 22
Family Camp I - June 9 to June 12
Blind Babies Family Camp - June 17 to June 19
Deaf-Blind Camp (Adult) - June 19 to June 24
Adult Session - June 25 to June 30
Adults with Developmental Disability Session - July 1 to July 6
Family Camp II - July 7 to July 10
Youth Session (3rd through 8th grade) - July 11 to July 17
Teen Session (9th through 12th grade) - July 21 to July 30
Horse Camp - August 1 to August 7
Woodworking Camp - August 1 to 7
Music Academy - August 1 to August 10
Family Camp III - August 11 to August 14

***

Calling 16 to 24-Year-Olds - Become a Counselor in Training at Enchanted Hills Camp
Deadline to Apply is April 1, 2016.

Enchanted Hills Camp is a beautiful place to work during the summer. We're looking for youth who are blind or who have low vision to join us during our summer sessions and get some excellent work experience.

The Enchanted Hills Camp Counselor in Training Program (CIT) focuses on developing blind/low vision leaders in an integrated environment through job exploration and work based learning experiences. Training takes place through discussion, observation and practice under the supervision of the administrative staff at camp. Most importantly a successful applicant will developed a strong work ethic that they can apply to any leadership experience. You'll finish the summer with a strong line for your resume and friends for life.

This program is designed for blind participants or participants with low vision who are 16-24 old and are serious about improving their leadership skills by learning to work with children and/or adults in a rigorous camp setting. The importance in this training program is the hands on experience CITs will gain by working with campers and with the EHC counseling staff. CITs, upon completion of the Enchanted Hills Camp CIT program, will be better prepared to work with adults, their peers and children of all ages, interests, and abilities. Participants will also walk away with self-advocacy skills, increased social and independent living skills, plus new friendships. We encourage applicants with a variety of previous camping experiences to apply.

CITs are registered as campers and therefore receive no financial compensation. Food, lodging and bus transportation from our pick-up sites are provided at no cost. Space is limited and interviews will be conducted to choose the best possible candidates for the program.

Expectations of CITs

    Adhere to the policies established in the Staff Handbook
    Be a positive role-model for campers
    Communicate blindness-positive philosophy
    Demonstrate independent travel skills
    Demonstrate a strong work ethic
    Develop conflict resolution skills
    Develop leadership skills
    Meet daily with supervisor in a group setting for evaluation
    Provide a safe and healthy environment for campers
    Read from suggested best practices reading list prior to summer assignment
    Support the mission of the camp

CIT Responsibilities

    Assist counselors and Area Leaders with management of campers
    Promote Independence
    Motivate campers to use non-visual techniques
    Participate in the development of program activities designed specifically for blind campers.
    Incorporate active participation in camp meals, clean-up and other daily functions through fun activities
    Communicate with staff about problems or issues that arise with campers
    Adapt all activities so that all campers can participate fully, regardless of their level of vision
    Work with counselors to resolve disciplinary issues that arise with campers
    Be active participants and assist staff during specialist, program and group time
    Assist campers in being successful with games, projects and activities
    Facilitate independence in camper participation
    Participate in activities with campers
    Assist counselors and Area Leaders in enforcing rules and instructions
    Assist in leading activities during downtime
    Assist in the set-up and facilitation of camp events such as theme days
    Serve as escorts for campers needing extra assistance
    Assume additional, reasonable responsibilities as assigned by the counselors, Area Leaders and administrative team
    HAVE FUN and BE SAFE

Deadline to Apply is April 1, 2016. For further information about the Counselor-in-Training Program, please don't hesitate to contact Tony Fletcher, Enchanted Hills Camp Director at 415-694-7319 or afletcher at lighthouse-sf.org.