Volunteer Counsellors are integral to the delivery of Camp Daverns program. Volunteer counsellors have the skills necessary to provide program and supervision to campers (ages 6 to 16 years). Volunteer counsellors live on-site when camp is in session and during the required pre-camp training.

GENERAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The Camp Davern experience is based on the building of a camp community. The camp community is supportive of all participants, staff and families and provides opportunities for growth and learning for all in spirit, mind and body. Camp Davern staff are leaders in the camp community to campers and play an important role in the Davern Staff Team. 

Volunteer Counsellors:

-Are responsible role models at camp and are aware that this continues throughout the year 

-Demonstrate respectful and caring relationships with staff and campers

-Are child centered, focused on the needs of our participants

-Put the greater good of our participants experience at the forefront in every decision made

-Teach and role model the core values of the YMCA-YWCA

-Understand and practice the policies and procedures of Camp Davern

 

SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:  

Volunteer Counsellors are expected to:

 -Plan and deliver fun, creative and safe cabin programs appropriate to the campers age and development

-Ensure that campers basic needs are attended to: personal hygiene, sunscreen, bug spray, hats, hydration, nutrition, sleep and rest, medications etc...

-Participate and help program camp-wide activities

-Manage the cabin group dynamics to ensure a positive physical and emotional experience for all campers

-Provide 24 hour camper care and supervision

-Develop individual relationships with each camper, check in with each girl every day 

-Create a supportive, communicative and cooperative relationship with co-counsellor

-Seek out support from other staff members, resource staff and director if needed
-Support in the kitchen (food prep, dishwashing, etc.), maintenance (checking washrooms, site maintenance, etc.), program support (getting ready for theme days, leading camp activities, etc.)

Volunteer Counsellors may be asked to assist in duties not listed above.

QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE:

 -Must be at least 16 years of age by June 30
-Current Standard First Aid and CPR-C

-Clear Criminal Record Check 

-Attend and participate in 100% of pre-camp training

-Bronze Cross highly recommended

-NLS and further outdoor certification encouraged

COMPETENCIES:

-Commitment to Association Vision and Values: Demonstrates and promotes a personal understanding of and appreciation for mission, vision, strategic outcomes and values of the National Capital Region YMCA-YWCA

-Communication: Communicates in a thorough, clear and timely manner and supports information sharing and goal achievement across the Association. 
- Concern for Health and Safety: Acknowledges and understands how to manage and educate others of risk or harm reduction.

-Initiative: Does the right thing at the right time without being asked.

-Teamwork: Participates actively in a team for organizational effectiveness.

-Self-Management: Works independently within prescribed parameters, can discern the relevance of issues and communicate them effectively to supervisor.