Resident Camp Director - Akron Rotary Camp for Special Needs

Resident, day, and respite camp programs for children with special needs on Portage Lakes near Akron, OH.  Part of Akron Area YMCA.
Camp Description
Akron Rotary Camp offers several camping programs. The children's overnight camp is geared towards children with disabilities aged 6-17. This is the cornerstone program, which has been offered since 1924. Campers 18 and older can participate in Adult Camp. Day camp is offered to campers ages 6-21. Campers enjoy traditional camp activities while spending each night at home. Today, our campers represent a variety of disabilities. Many campers have developmental disabilities such as autism spectrum disorders, developmental delays, and Down syndrome. Other campers have physical disabilities such as spina bifida, cerebral palsy, and blindness. There are also many campers with learning disabilities, mental health disorders, and multiple diagnoses. A camper just has to have a disability to qualify for any one of the Akron Rotary Camp's programs.
Job Description

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.  This position is responsible for the day to day program operations of the Akron Rotary Camp for Children with Special Needs.  Responsibilities include: hiring, training, and supervising seasonal staff; overseeing resident and day camp and camp programs; coordinate year-round programs including respite camps and facility rentals.

Qualifications
  1. Must have 3-5 years of experience working with children
  2. Preferred candidates will have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university
  3. Preferred candidates will have certifications in (or receive within (6 months): ServSafe (food handler), Lifeguard Instructor, and High Ropes Instructor
  4. Must be 21 years of age
  5. Must have a good driving record and reliable transportation.
  6. Must be willing to live on site and work in a community environment
  7. Must have a positive attitude and the ability to find creative solutions when dealing with conflict
  8. YMCA Team Leader Certification preferred (or obtain within 18 months)
  9. PREFERRED:  Experience working with individuals with special needs
Essential Functions
  • Plans and implements programs - including summer camp, respite programs, and facility rentals
  • Work directly with youth and adults with special needs and their families.
  • Coordinates facility rental groups/programs to ensure they have a quality camp experience
  • Manages all aspects of the Bud Rogers Adventure Park (trainings, inspections, scheduling, etc.)
  • Uses specific outcome/goal processes to ensure program quality and effectiveness
  • Uses generally accepted behavior management guidelines with campers and staff as necessary
  • Ensures camp is meeting ACA Accreditation Standards, as well as state and local health department rules
  • Communicates effectively with camper families and guests
  • Develops annual budget - follows established guidelines for purchasing equipment and supplies
  • Hires, onboards, trains, and supervises seasonal staff
  • Coordinates staff training, including annual summer staff training, lifeguarding, cpr/first aid, etc.
  • Prepares timesheets and other payroll related materials in a timely manner
  • Participates in meetings as requested and serves on appropriate committees including YMCA Program Focus Groups and Camp Board Meetings
  • Coordinates marketing and social medial initiatives for all programs with association Marketing Director
  • Leads participant registration, document collection, billing, and collections activities.
  • Exercises good judgment and competence in the implementation of policy and standards which result in increased public regard toward the YMCA and Akron Rotary Camp
  • Assists with various fundraising efforts including the Chili Open, Annual Campaign, and other special events. All staff are encouraged to make a personal contribution.
  • Promptly address maintenance issues - report facility concerns to Executive Director and/or maintenance staff
  • Coordinates with other YMCA locations for programming, training, and staff sharing as appropriate
  • Coordinates care for camp reptiles
  • Maintains constant and open communication with the Executive Director at all times
  • Executes other duties as assigned
Cause-Driven Leadership Competencies

·         Critical Thinking & Decision Making: Incorporates different points of view when making decisions.  Interprets data, feedback, and information, differentiating among assumptions, anecdotal evidence and facts.  Anticipates risk, implications and possible outcomes before taking action.

·         Developing Self & Others: Recruits, hires, onboards and develops diverse staff and volunteer teams across multiple dimensions of diversity.  Provides support, tools, and resources necessary to set, meet, or exceed goals.  Coaches others for continuous development.  Addresses sensitive issues, inappropriate behavior or performance concerns to help others grow.

·         Program Management: Translates organizational goals into executable plans.  Delegates responsibilities.  Challenges inefficient work processes and offers alternatives.  Follows through on commitments with an appropriate sense of urgency.  Demonstrates flexibility, effectively adjusting to achieve intended outcomes.

·         Emotional Maturity: Regulates behavior based on assessment of situation, personal feelings, strengths, and limitations.  Demonstrates a settling presence, even during times of crisis and challenge.

·         Inclusion: Addresses behaviors that do not support inclusion in positive and equitable ways.  Ensures staff model equity, inclusion, and cultural competence in all areas of their work.