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:  William Street 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:

The Inclusion Specialist 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 summer seasonal position.

GENERAL WORK SCHEDULE:  

Camp employees are scheduled to work Monday – Friday, up to 40 hours per week.  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. Develops and implements individualized support plans for campers to facilitate their inclusion within the camp program.
2. Plans and facilitates components of the pre-camp staff training program.
3. Ensures effective communication between staff and parents of campers.
4. Develops and maintains positive, open communication between campers and camp staff.
5. Implements and maintains work rules and regulations as required by YMCA Buffalo Niagara, the NYS Department of Health, and other regulatory agencies.
6. Pursues new and innovative program initiatives.
7. Participates with campers when needed in the pool during swim lessons and free swim.
8. Performs administrative functions including attendance, camper development, program planning, and evaluation.
9. Implements ongoing safety checks and ensures a healthy and safe camp environment. Implements emergency procedures when necessary.
10. Identifies and resolves problems. Implements appropriate discipline techniques and procedures.
11. Sets up and organizes equipment and supplies for camp activities.
12. Follows and enforces department protocol to clean and disinfect commonly used surfaces. Enforces PPE compliance.
13. Maintains the cleanliness and organization of program/work areas.
14. Completes 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.