Lead Summer Camp Supervisor

About Sanctuary for Families Inc.

Sanctuary for Families is a premier organization in New York dedicated to providing essential services and advocacy for individuals affected by domestic violence, sex trafficking, and other forms of gender-based violence. Each year, we empower numerous adults and children to transition from fear and abuse to safety and stability, transforming lives through a comprehensive array of services. Our mission is to assist survivors in rebuilding their lives post-abuse while striving to eradicate gender violence through three primary strategies: direct services, outreach and training, and systems-change advocacy. Our services are accessible across multiple locations throughout New York City.

Role of the Head Camp Counselor

The Head Camp Counselor will play a crucial role in supporting the Camp HOPE America - New York initiative. This camp operates under a trauma-informed model, catering to campers who have experienced gender-based violence and associated trauma. Staff members engaged with this demographic must exhibit empathy, compassion, and a deep understanding of the effects of trauma on individuals. The Head Counselor will assume a supervisory position, providing guidance and support to general counselors while being responsible for notifying the Clinical Camp Director and Camp Director of any potential concerns. Overall, they will ensure the smooth operation of daily camp activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Directly supervise a team of 12 staff members and oversee a group of 18 campers.
• Offer leadership, guidance, and support to general counselors.
• Model effective camper behavior management techniques and assist in resolving camper-camper and camper-counselor conflicts.
• Collaborate with the Camp Clinical Director to equip counselors with behavior management skills and additional support for campers.
• Ensure compliance with all Camp HOPE America curriculum requirements.
• Manage camper daily logs and Character Trait awards.
• Provide coverage for General Counselor breaks as necessary.
• Prioritize camper welfare in all decision-making processes.
• Facilitate open communication between counselors and administration.
• Co-lead morning meetings with the Assistant Director.
• Participate in all camp activities and assist the Camp Director as needed.
• Clarify camp policies, traditions, and rules to campers and counselors.
• Maintain personal health and appearance standards.
• Ensure proper use and care of camp facilities and equipment.
• Familiarize oneself with emergency procedures and guide counselors and campers accordingly.
• Invest time with campers to address their needs, challenge their abilities, and serve as a positive role model.
• Engage in overnight activities and hikes.
• Adhere to additional rules and regulations as determined by the Camp Director.
• Collaborate effectively with fellow staff to achieve program goals.
• Provide constructive feedback to general counselors.

Organizational Relationships

• Work collaboratively with the Camp Director, Assistant Camp Director, and Camp HOPE Leadership team.
• Engage with agency children's services staff as needed.

Qualifications

• High school diploma; 1 or 2 years of college education preferred.
• Minimum of two years' experience in camping and child supervision or completion of an acceptable training program.

Additional Experience

• At least one year of supervisory experience.
• Passion for working with children.
• Interest in outdoor living and activities during the summer.
• Emotional maturity and a commitment to teamwork.
• Flexibility and willingness to embrace challenges.
• Ability to maintain a positive demeanor.
• Physical capability to sit, stand, walk, reach, climb, stoop, kneel, talk, and hear.
• Comfortable working in various weather conditions.

Salary: Competitive and commensurate with experience.

Sanctuary for Families is an equal opportunity employer, and we encourage individuals from diverse backgrounds, including people of color, trans and gender non-conforming individuals, people with disabilities, and survivors of gender-based violence, to apply.

We are committed to centering diversity, equity, and inclusion principles in all aspects of our organization.