General Function
Work with the Teen Director to create a high-quality experience for every teen camper. Ensure the safety, well-being and personal growth of campers. Teen XL/Expedition Counselors are responsible for the emotional, social, mental and physical safety of campers on and off YMCA Camp Collins property. Provide leadership, guidance and support to teen campers in a variety of outdoor recreation activities, group living, personal growth and skill development. Be an active and supportive member of the Teen Staff and a positive member of the entire staff community. Teen XL/Expedition Counselors must demonstrate positive, professional role modeling at all times, acting in a manner that is consistent with the staff code of conduct and the philosophy, goals, and objectives of YMCA Camp Collins.

Essential Functions Of Job

1. 1. Incorporate and Model our YMCA Christian principles of love, respect, honesty, responsibility and service into your work.
2. 2. Commit to establishing long-term relationships with staff, volunteers, campers and families.
3. 3. Ensure the Physical and Emotional Safety of Every Camper
   1. a. Monitor each camper’s physical and emotional well-being.
      1. i. Check-in with them about their week at camp.
      2. ii. Ask what you can do to make it better.
      3. iii. Inform the Teen Director if a camper is missing home, not enjoying their time at camp, unhappy, having difficulties following camp guidelines or if there are signs of abuse.
   2. b. Be aware of times or activities that may involve a high degree of emotional or social risk for campers and work to mitigate these risks.
   3. c. Use discipline in a constructive and positive manner that is consistent with the policies of YMCA Camp Collins.
   4. d. Handle all situations involving camper safety in a timely manner.
   5. e. Report any suspicions of child abuse immediately to the Teen Programs Director.
      1. i. With the Teen Programs Director’s assistance, call the Metro Tri County Hotline.
      2. ii. Document the situation and complete an incident report form.
4. 4. Provide Responsible and Constructive Leadership for Teen XL/Expedition Campers
   1. a. Create an environment in which all campers are respectful of each other and the guidelines at camp.
   2. b. Connect with campers and develop individual relationships with all of them.
   3. c. Praise campers frequently with specific examples of their actions and words.
   4. d. Demonstrate positive role modeling at ALL times.
   5. e. Help campers replace undesired behavior with positive choices.
      1. i. Identify and point out incorrect choices in a timely manner.
      2. ii. Work with campers to make better choices in similar situations.
   6. f. Keep campers engaged and enthusiastic about activities.
   7. g. Develop projects that provide teamwork and service learning opportunities for teen campers.
   8. h. Lead service projects and choice activities.
   9. i. Be familiar with the route, activities, emergency procedures and contacts for each backpacking and/or kayaking trip.
   10. j. Assist the Teen Director maintain the cleanliness of Trip Shed.
   11. k. Responsible for checking the safety and operation of all equipment prior to each backpacking/kayaking trip, keeping it in good condition, making repairs as needed and/or reporting repairs needed to Teen Director.
   12. l. Work to improve your counseling skills by learning from your co-workers, asking questions and being open to suggestions.
       1. i. Complete a self-evaluation and participate in discussions with the Teen Director about successes, areas of improvement and goals.
5. 5. Be a Positive Member of the Staff Community
   1. a. Work to establish and maintain positive relationships with ALL staff throughout the summer.
   2. b. Communicate openly and honestly with ALL staff.
   3. c. Deal with problems or concerns in a timely and professional manner.
   4. d. Take responsibility for your actions and your words.
   5. e. Avoid gossip and do your part to eliminate it from the camp community.
   6. f. Communicate regularly with the Teen Director.
   7. g. Ask for help when needed.
   8. h. Fulfill staff duties, such as Saturday clean-up, with a positive attitude and willingness to help.

How to Apply
New Applicants: Complete a YMCA of Columbia-Willamette Employment Application and YMCA Camp Collins Supplemental Application Returning Applicants: Complete a YMCA Camp Collins Supplemental Application and send to:
Teen Programs Director
YMCA Camp Collins
3001 SE Oxbow Parkway
Gresham, OR 97080

The YMCA of Columbia-Willamette is a mission driven organization, which seeks individuals who are enthusiastic and passionate about our purpose and mission. We do this by putting the Christian principles of love, respect, honesty, responsibility and service into practice.

The statements in this job description are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified.

Equal Opportunity Employer