Summer Day Camp Inclusion Aide - 2025

YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago; Lake Zurich (IL); On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Part time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking organization dedicated to creating an inclusive environment for children with disabilities. As a Summer Day Camp Inclusion Aide, you will foster participation and independence while ensuring a safe and engaging experience for all campers. This role emphasizes leadership development and the creation of lasting memories as you guide participants through various activities. With a focus on teamwork and support, you'll play a vital part in shaping a positive camp experience. Enjoy numerous perks, including comprehensive health benefits and opportunities for continuous learning in a supportive atmosphere.

Benefits

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Wellness programs

Generous paid time off

Flexible work hours

403(b) plan with contributions

Continuous learning opportunities

Supportive work environment

Discounts on programs

Employee assistance programs

Qualifications

• Experience with children, especially with disabilities, preferred.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills essential.

Responsibilities

• Support inclusion and create an outstanding participant experience.
• Ensure health and safety by following YMCA standards.
• Communicate with team members about activities and schedules.

Skills

Experience with children

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Knowledge of child development

Behavior management strategies

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Champion Inclusion, Empower Abilities: Be an Inclusion Aide!

At the Y, we create an exciting, safe camp environment for kids and staff to have an unforgettable summer. While campers participate in unique experiences and adventures, our Summer Day Camp Inclusion Aides develop leadership skills and confidence, making lasting friendships and memories.

Join us for the experience of a lifetime. Pay starts at $17.90 per hour, Monday-Friday schedule

As a Summer Day Camp Inclusion Aide, you will support and assist individuals with disabilities enrolled in Y programs to promote participation and independence. You will ensure individualized needs are met while serving as a professional role model, guiding participants through activities that foster a positive learning environment and the development of life skills and safe behaviors.

Our staff is the Y's greatest asset

Our teams provide valuable skills, knowledge, and passion, which is why we offer numerous perks and benefits, including:

• Salaries reflecting your skills and experience
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, wellness programs, mental health resources, and a family gym membership
• Generous paid time off, including holidays, and flexible work hours
• 403(b) plan with company contributions after 2 years
• Continuous learning opportunities through workshops and training
• A supportive, inclusive work environment
• Discounts on programs, employee assistance, and sponsored events

What you'll do:

Program Participant Experience

• Support inclusion and create an outstanding participant experience for children, parents, and families.
• Modify activities, rules, equipment, and supplies as needed; promote participation and independence; maintain confidentiality.
• Model socially acceptable behaviors, use positive reinforcement, and implement behavior management plans when necessary.
• Communicate with team members and leaders about activities and schedule; suggest modifications.
• Provide weekly summaries of participant participation to parents and team.
• Support program activities and substitute support as needed.

Participant Safety

• Ensure health and safety by following YMCA standards and evaluating risks.
• Be attentive to specific health and safety needs of individuals with disabilities.
• Ensure compliance with safety rules; monitor and coach participants and team members.
• Set up and store equipment properly; report unsafe conditions.
• Maintain cleanliness of facilities.

What you'll Need

• High school diploma or equivalent; at least 18 years old.
• Experience with children, especially with disabilities, preferred.
• Passion for the YMCA's mission and serving diverse youth.
• Knowledge of child development and appropriate practices.
• Ability to implement inclusion plans and behavior management strategies.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Meet physical requirements; reasonable accommodations provided.
• Successful background checks and medical screening as required.

Child Abuse Prevention

• Report hazards and suspicious behaviors.
• Follow policies for child safety and supervision.
• Complete required child abuse prevention training.

Equal Opportunity Employer. For more information, review the "Know Your Rights" notice from the Department of Labor.