Day Camp - Inclusion Specialist

YMCA Buffalo Niagara operates Day Camp Programs at YMCA facilities and at elementary schools throughout Western NY.

When applying for this job, you will be directed to select the location(s) you are able to work at:

• City of Buffalo:  William-Emslie YMCA
• Amherst:  Independent Health YMCA
• Kenmore:  Ken-Ton YMCA & Hamilton Elementary
• West Seneca:  Southtowns YMCA
• Lancaster:  Como Pak Elementary School
• Lockport:  Lockport YMCA
• Youngstown:  Lewiston-Porter Primary

YMCA Buffalo Niagara is an equal opportunity employer committed to valuing diversity and practicing inclusion.

POSITION SUMMARY:

Collaborates with camp leadership and counselors to provide support to individual campers who need special assistance. Ensures the safety of all campers. This is a seasonal summer camp job.

GENERAL WORK SCHEDULE:  

Monday – Friday, up to 40 hours per week, while the camp program is in session.  Must be available to work between the hours of 7:00 am and 6:00 pm.

BENEFITS:

Complimentary YMCA Buffalo Niagara Family Membership, discounted program fees, paid sick leave, training and leadership development opportunities, and a fun work environment.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Develop and implement individualized support plans for campers to facilitate their inclusion within the camp program.
2. Plan and facilitate components of the pre-camp staff training program.
3. Ensure effective communication between staff and parents of campers.
4. Develop and maintain positive, open communication between campers and camp staff.
5. Implement and maintain work rules and regulations as required by YMCA Buffalo Niagara, the NYS Department of Health, and other regulatory agencies.
6. Pursue new and innovative program initiatives.
7. Participate with campers when needed in the pool during swim lessons and free swim.
8. Perform administrative functions including attendance, camper development, program planning, and evaluation.
9. Implement ongoing safety checks and ensure a healthy and safe camp environment. Implement emergency procedures when necessary.
10. Identify and resolve problems. Implement appropriate discipline techniques.
11. Set up and organize equipment and supplies for camp activities.
12. Follow and enforce department protocol to clean and disinfect commonly used surfaces. Enforce PPE compliance.
13. Maintain the cleanliness and organization of program/work areas.
14. Perform additional duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Minimum of one (1) year of experience working in a formal childcare setting.
2. Experience working with children with disabilities.
3. Experience writing and executing behavior support plans is preferred.
4. Ability to train and guide others working with children with disabilities.
5. College course work in Special Education, Education or a related field is required. A bachelor’s degree is preferred.
6. Must be able to successfully plan and lead activities for children in a camp environment.
7. Must be at least 18 years of age.