Accessible Summer Camp | Camp Counsellor

Isnacanada; Mississauga; On-site; CAD 80,000 - 100,000; Part time

Job summary

A leading organization is seeking a compassionate Accessible Summer Camp Counsellor to ensure children of all abilities experience inclusive summer camp activities. The role involves organizing engaging activities, fostering a safe environment, and adapting events to meet diverse needs. Applicants should be enthusiastic, possess relevant qualifications, and have a commitment to accessibility.

Qualifications

• Must be between 18 to 30 years and legally entitled to work in Canada.
• Previous experience in accessible programming or camp counseling is an asset.
• Valid First Aid and CPR certification considered an asset.

Responsibilities

• Organize and facilitate inclusive camp activities tailored to children with diverse needs.
• Collaborate with staff to adapt programming for unique camper needs.
• Ensure the safety and participation of campers in all activities.

Skills

Organizational skills

Communication

Adaptability

Interpersonal skills

Judgment

Education

Related degree or diploma in youth work, education, or disability studies

Job description

Reports To: Programs Coordinator and Social Worker

Start Date:

• Camp 1: Monday, July 7 - Friday, July 11th (8:30am - 2:30pm)
• Camp 2: Monday, August 4th - Friday, August 8th (8:30am - 2:30pm)

Location: 2200 South Sheridan Way, Mississauga, ON L5J 2M4

Job Term: Contract Position

Overview: We are seeking a compassionate, dedicated, and adaptable Accessible Summer Camp Counsellor to join our team for summer camp sessions. This role is designed to ensure that all campers, regardless of ability or mobility, can participate in and enjoy camp activities in an inclusive, safe, and supportive environment. You will help deliver a fun, accessible, and engaging camp experience for children and youth with diverse needs.

Key Responsibilities:

• Organize and facilitate inclusive, adaptive camp activities including games, arts and crafts, team-building exercises, special events, and educational exhibitions.
• Ensure activities are appropriately modified to accommodate campers with disabilities, ensuring their safety, participation, and enjoyment.
• Collaborate with other Camp Staff and the Programs Coordinator and/or Social Worker to adapt programming as needed to meet the unique needs of each camper.
• Demonstrate a high level of awareness and sensitivity to campers' abilities, modifying activities to provide equitable participation opportunities.
• Prioritize the well-being, safety, and inclusion of all campers, ensuring any accessibility-related concerns are addressed proactively.
• Evaluate situations for potential risks to the safety, protection, and well-being of campers and staff, taking proactive measures to mitigate those risks.
• Provide assistance and encouragement to campers, ensuring they are fully engaged and able to participate to the best of their ability.
• Help organize and assist with the set-up and clean-up of camp events, ensuring that all spaces are accessible and safe for all campers.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with campers, parents, staff, and volunteers.
• Provide regular updates and feedback to the Social Worker and/or Programs Coordinator.
• Participate in orientation and training sessions, supporting other staff and volunteers where necessary.
• Attend staff meetings and contribute to the overall development and success of the camp program.
• Other duties as assigned.

Key Qualities:

• Strong understanding of and commitment to accessibility and inclusion.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage time effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to create, modify, and adapt camp activities to meet the needs of campers with diverse abilities.
• Patience, enthusiasm, and a positive attitude toward working with children and youth of all abilities.
• Proven ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage campers and their families with respect and empathy.
• Ability to handle potentially challenging situations with confidence and professionalism.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage time effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Sound judgment in knowing when to escalate situations to supervisory staff.
• Ability to de-escalate situations and provide appropriate support as needed.

Qualifications and Skills:

• Applicants must be between the ages of 18 to 30 years (inclusive)
• Canadian Citizen, permanent resident, or person on whom refugee protection has been conferred under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, for the duration of the employment
• Legally entitled to work in Canada in accordance with relevant provincial or territorial legislation and regulations
• Have a valid Social Insurance Number at the start of employment and be legally entitled to work in Canada in accordance with relevant provincial or territorial legislation and regulations.
• Comfortable working with ages 5-17, with various accessibility needs.
• Previous experience in accessible programming, camp counseling, or working with individuals with disabilities is considered an asset.
• Related degree or diploma in youth work, special education, disability studies, or a related field, or equivalent experience is an asset.
• Valid First Aid and CPR certification is considered an asset.
• Experience working with campers who have physical, developmental, or cognitive disabilities is an asset.