Summer Camp Counselor - Camp Harkness

Come join us at Camp Harkness for the most fun and fulfilling summer of your life! Everyone deserves the chance to create lasting memories and forever friendships at summer camp. Our program, Camp Harkness, gives people with disabilities a traditional overnight summer camp experience with swimming, crafts, sports, music, dances, campfires, and more, all by a gorgeous beach on the Connecticut shoreline. We have weeks for young adults (16-21) and for adults (all ages). We work closely as a team and train everyone at the beginning of the summer on how to care for our campers and help them have the best time. 

The Summer Camp Counselor at Oak Hill’s Waterford location works June 10th to August 7th. Counselors are expected to stay at camp from Sunday morning – Friday evening for these weeks. This is a traditional, overnight summer camp.  

The Summer Camp Counselors are the primary caregivers for each camper. They work on a team to assist campers with their activities of daily living (ADLs) and participation in camp activities. Counselors provide physical, social, emotional, and recreational support.   

 Minimum Requirements: 

• At least age 18  
• High school diploma or equivalent 
• Willingness to learn how to provide personal care to campers of all ages and ability levels 

  Benefits: 

• Excellent Professional Development Opportunities; Career Pathways  
• Staff trips and end-of-summer banquet 
• Paid Training 

Staff are eligible for a $8,896 stipend for the entire program, paid bi-weekly throughout the summer camp season. 

Responsibilities:  

• Supervise and assist campers with activities of daily living (ADLs) according to their individualized plan to ensure safety and well-being in a way that promotes independence and dignity.  
• Accompany campers to activities and help facilitate their engagement and participation.  
• Supervise and assist campers during mealtimes according to their individualized plan to ensure a safe and enjoyable dining experience. 
• Assist in the planning of activities for campers during free time. Provide supervision to meet recreation and safety needs. 
• Lift and transfer campers as needed according to their individualized plan and camp policy and procedure, using necessary equipment maintaining camper and staff safety. 
• Participate in Check-In and Check-Out day preparation and facilitation. Enthusiastically welcome campers and caregivers. Help them navigate the process and direct questions. Ensure that campers’ needs are planned and provided for. 
• Adhere to general camp policies and procedures outlined for all staff.  
• Use least intrusive methods during situations with a risk of injury such as the need for Physical and Psychological Management Training (PMT). 
• Exercise relevant safety measures during transportation. 
• Attend and participate in team meetings to help create an efficient and supportive team.
• Participate in Staff Cleanup and debrief at the end of the summer camp program.