The Junior Counselor’s main role is to assist Camp Counselors and/or Camp Program Staff in leading groups and providing fun and safe experiences for children. The Junior Counselor will help the campers acquire a feeling of high self-esteem, self-worth and competence in an outdoor setting.  Volunteers are an integral part of the Day Camp experience. As a volunteer JC you will learn valuable leadership and job skills and have the opportunity to be part of a great staff.

As a Junior Counselor, we ask that you volunteer a minimum of 3 weeks (does not need to be consecutive.) Junior Counselors who are making a positive impact on camp programs and camper experiences will be invited to volunteer during additional weeks of camp. Junior Counselors who take away from positive camp experiences may be removed from the program.  

Volunteers must qualify according to the job description as well as following the application process listed below.

 2 - Steps to Apply

• Review this Junior Counselor Volunteer Description.
• Submit the Junior Counselor job application. 
• Receive email with invite to be a Junior Counselor! (Late April or May.)
• Complete paperwork for Junior Counselor (Waivers & Health Form)
• Attend JC Training (tentatively June 7th, 9:30AM-2PM )

3 - Volunteer General Responsibilities: 

• Participate in Junior Counselor goal setting and mentor program.
• Support Camp Counselors in ensuring the general health, happiness and safety of the campers assigned to him/her.
• Support Camp Counselors in leading group activities.
• Understand and role model camp rules and expectations.
• Actively participate in camp activities while engaging campers.
• Participate and assist in leading in opening and closing ceremonies daily.
• Act as a role model to campers at all times.  Exhibit good judgment, enthusiasm for the activities and strong awareness of safety.
• While on the bus, enforce and follow all safety rules. Participate and lead songs, games and other activities.
• Incorporate the Five Core Values of the YMCA—caring, equity, honesty, respect, responsibility—into all programs and model these values to others at all times.
• Stay off your phone and remain engaged!

4 -  Volunteer Qualifications/Requirements: 

• Age: 14-17
• Previous experience or school course work in working with children and/or recreation. (Leaders in Training or similar experiences preferred.)
• An interest in working with children in a camp setting and desire to be a positive influence on children.
• Be able to role model the YMCA’s five core values.

 5 -  Physical Demands:

Must have the physical ability to lead and participate in camp activities which include hiking, canoeing, swimming, team building initiatives, building campfires, physical games and activities.  

6 -  Additional Notes: 

This volunteer opportunity represents the primary needs identified at this time but is not intended to be all-inclusive. The volunteer will also be responsible for taking direction from the Assistant Camp Director and Camp Director or other designated YMCA team member.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Pledge 

The Y of the North is committed to the work and everyday practices of eliminating disparities and eradicating of unjust systems to become a multicultural, anti-racist and anti-oppressive organization. YMCA of the North team members and volunteers must exemplify the association’s mission, vision and values of caring, equity, honesty, respect and responsibility. 

The YMCA of the North continues to develop plans and strategies to ensure team members and volunteers reflect the demographics of the communities we serve. We will continually conduct institutional racism and oppression review of our policies, procedures and practices in recruitment and selection; compensation and benefits; professional development and training; promotions; transfers; layoffs; terminations; and the ongoing development of a multicultural, anti-racist and anti-oppressive work environment and culture that promotes equity and respect for the human dignity of all. We value and respect this diversity and choose to be inclusive through our acceptance of all.