Overnight Camp - Inclusion Specialist

YMCA Camp Weona (CampWeona.com) is nestled among 800 acres of hills and forests in Gainesville, NY.

When applying for this job, you will be asked to select the overnight camp location you would prefer to work at.

Camp activities include swimming, archery, low & high ropes challenges, climbing wall, gaga ball, arts & crafts, nature, science, and more.

The Y is looking for talented individuals with a passion for the YMCA’s mission and cause, an understanding of YMCA programs and services, and whose everyday values reflect the core YMCA values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.

YMCA Buffalo Niagara is an equal opportunity employer committed to valuing diversity and practicing inclusion.

Position Summary

Collaborates with overnight camp leadership and other counselors to provide support to individual campers who need special assistance. Ensures the safety of all campers. GENERAL WORK SCHEDULE: This is a residential position where food and lodging are provided during hours of work. The work week follows the camper session which begins each Sunday and ends on Friday with a 24 hour break in-between. Dates of employment include a week of training starting June 14, 2026, and concludes on August 15, 2026.

Benefits

Complimentary YMCA Buffalo Niagara Membership, discounted program fees, paid sick leave, training and leadership development opportunities, and an outstanding work environment. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Develop and implement individualized support plans for campers to facilitate their inclusion within the camp program. Plan and facilitate components of the pre-camp staff training program. Ensure effective communication between staff and parents of campers. Develop and maintain positive, open communication between campers and camp staff. Implement and maintain work rules and regulations as required by YMCA Buffalo Niagara, the NYS Department of Health, and other regulatory agencies. Pursue new and innovative program initiatives. Participate with campers when needed in the pool during swim lessons and free swim. Perform administrative functions including attendance, camper development, program planning, and evaluation. Implement ongoing safety checks and ensure a healthy and safe camp environment. Implement emergency procedures when necessary. Identify and resolve problems. Implement appropriate discipline techniques. Set up and organize equipment and supplies for camp activities. Follow and enforce department protocol to clean and disinfect commonly used surfaces. Enforce PPE compliance. Maintain the cleanliness and organization of program/work areas. Perform additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Minimum of one (1) year of experience working in a formal childcare setting. Experience working with children with disabilities. Experience writing and executing behavior support plans is preferred. Ability to train and guide others working with children with disabilities. College course work in Special Education, Education or a related field is required. A bachelor’s degree is preferred. Must be able to successfully plan and lead activities for children in a camp environment. Must be at least 18 years of age.

Pay

$63.00 per day