Summer Program Counselor - South Hadley
This listing is for our South Hadley, MA location.
POSITION SUMMARY:
This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit charitable organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. The Program Counselor creates a safe, engaging, and inclusive experience for all participants, helping them build relationships, develop confidence, and create lasting memories.
OUR CULTURE:
Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing and we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger, beginning with you.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
- Supervises and actively engages a group of children in daily program activities including swimming, field trips, sports, arts, nature, and team-building games.
- Ensure safety by following all YMCA and summer program policies, procedures, and emergency protocols.
- Creates and implements engaging, developmentally appropriate, and culturally relevant activities aligned with the Y’s values.
- Builds positive, respectful relationships with all participants, modeling YMCA core values and behavior expectations.
- Encourages youth to participate, lead, and make choices that foster independence and problem-solving skills.
- Maintains communication with parents/caregivers and provides updates on camper progress and experiences.
- Attends and contributes to pre-camp orientation, daily check-ins, staff training, and end-of-season wrap-up.
- Maintains the cleanliness and organization of camp areas, supplies, and equipment.
- Performs additional duties as assigned.