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Founded in 1968, Eckerd Youth Alternatives is a pioneering youth services organization dedicated to helping kids succeed. Through some forty Eckerd programs nationwide more than 80,000 youth have another chance, and a hope for a brighter future. Today, Eckerd Youth Alternatives is one of the nation's leading nonprofit providers of services for at-risk and high-risk youth and their families. Operating outdoor therapeutic programs, juvenile justice and early intervention programs throughout the eastern United States, EYA programs utilize recreation therapy, adventure therapy, experiential education, and individual and group therapy in helping children become productive adults. |
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What You'll Be Doing |
Outdoor Youth Counselors will work with gender-specific groups of about 10 kids, ages 10-18, in a rustic camp setting. You'll ensure that group members are engaged in productive behaviors and developing effective problem-solving skills. You'll lead your group in hiking, backpacking, canoeing adventures, low and high ropes work, outdoor games and community service projects. Just as important, you'll be a mentor and role model, as you help at-risk kids get back on track.
Prior to leading your group, you will attend a 3-week, paid, intensive training where you will learn and practice the skills needed for day-to-day camp operation. You will be trained in CPR, first aid, basic water safety, crisis intervention, de-escalation techniques, tent building and trip planning. You'll also learn how to implement choice theory, team building, experiential education and positive reinforcement to help your group members develop new problem-solving skills. Outdoor Youth Counselor are supervised and supported by a management team of Master Counselors and the Program and Camp Directors.
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Counselors in Action |
Watch Eckerd
Youth Alternatives Outdoor Youth Counselors in
action while making a difference! |
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Time Commitment |
The Outdoor Youth Counselor position is a full-time, year-round, residential position. You will work and live in the woods with your group 24 hours a day, typically covering a 4-5 day period, with 2-3 days off. Occasionally, your schedule will vary depending on coverage and activities, which could result in working for an extended time. For example, when a group is on a canoe trip, you may work up to 21 days. EYA also provides time-off quarters. This is a house either on or near the program that is shared by all counselors. It has all amenities such as electricity, hot water, phone and TV; and some have additional features such as a pool, basketball court or barbecue. All counselors have the option to use the time-off quarters, so rooms typically are shared. While here you will pay for your own food and long distance phone calls. |
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Perks & Rewards |
The chance to make a real difference in kids' lives is the reason most Outdoor Youth Counselors join Eckerd Youth Alternatives. But that's not the only benefit: •
Compensation starting at $23,600/year |
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The Essentials |
Candidates must be at least 21 years of age, physically fit, and enjoy working with kids and outdoor activities. A college degree and previous volunteer or paid work with children is preferred, but not required. The most successful Outdoor Youth Counselors enjoy being outdoors, are excited by challenges, have a positive attitude and are non-confrontational, have a sense of adventure and desire for continual learning, and desire to really make a difference in life. |
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Your First Move |
Visit the list of current available positions and select the job that most interests you. Read the job description, answer a few questions, and then submit your contact information and resume online. If you are interested in more than one job, submit your information only once, and make note of other jobs that interest you in your cover letter. When assigning new counselors, EYA's priority is to make placements with programs that have the greatest need. However, EYA understands the need to accommodate personal interests and lifestyle, and positions are offered with your preferences in mind. If you require a specific geographic location, you may be placed on a waiting list for that particular program. |
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Connections |
Career Advisor
Connection |
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Navigation |
Eckerd Youth
Alternatives can be found in the Wilderness
Therapy Ventures
channel |
Looking
for a place where your energy and ability will make
a difference in the lives of children? Join Eckerd
Youth Alternatives' team of dedicated individuals
who are helping troubled children and at-risk
youth.
Job opportunities are available in the Southeast (Florida,
Georgia, North Carolina and Tennessee) and the Northeast
(New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont). View a map of the
outdoor therapeutic program 
