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Did you know that more than 1 million children are homeless just here alone in the United States? Unfortunately, the lives of homeless children are often chaotic—filled with stressful family situations and frequent moves. During the summer months, the problems of homeless children become even more pronounced. Without the stimulation of school, homeless children sometimes become isolated from their peers and teachers, and are frequently left with few constructive activities. Enter Homes for the Homeless Summer Camps—a special place that offers these children a positive alternative to experience summer. Each summer since
1989, Homes for the Homeless has offered over
10,000 homeless New York City children the chance
to trade sweltering city streets for the relief of
summer camp. Nestled in the foothills of Bear
Mountain in historic Harriman
State Park
(about 1 hour north of New York City), Camps
Kiwago, Lanowa and Wakonda introduce children to
the peace and beauty of nature and the wonder of
the great outdoors. The campsites are surrounded by
thousands of acres of undeveloped land, with each
camp situated on a fresh water lake for plenty of
summer fun activities. |
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WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING |
Are you
flexible, fun, caring, and
responsible? Do you have a
love for children and the outdoors and a craving to
do something different? Camps Kiwago,
Lanowa or Wakonda might be the perfect place for
you this summer! Working to promote the development of individual self-esteem and to provide a role model for healthy group living, the camp staff is a diverse group of adults coming from all over the world to spend time with campers. The children generally live in groups of five under the supervision of a general counselor and a specialty counselor. Within each group, a unit leader helps to provide constant support and feedback. An on-site EMT or nurse is available 24 hours a day to provide medical care. The waterfront staff are trained and certified by the American Red Cross to provide instruction and supervision. SUMMER
2008 JOB OPENINGS (for each camp site) • UNIT LEADERS act as supervisors for ten staff members and 25 campers along with assisting with the administrative arm of the camp; plan activities for the camp and unit; lead time-out (discipline) program; and work as a team within the unit, with other unit leaders, and with the administration staff. (21+) • GENERAL COUNSELORS are directly responsible for the day-to-day care of campers in the cabin. Teamed with a neighboring cabin, counselors travel to scheduled activities, assist specialists, and have the opportunity to lead their own activities throughout the summer. (18+) • ACTIVITY SPECIALISTS plan and execute programs within an assigned specialty area. Specialists are supported by a program director to utilize individual strengths and camp resources within a specific discipline. Specialist areas include arts & crafts, sports, drama, the learning center, wilderness, science and nature, and life skills. (18+) • WATERFRONT STAFF get campers involved in one of their favorite activities: swimming, boating, and canoeing on a fresh water lake! Responsibilities include basic lessons to afford comfort ability in water. The waterfront director supervises a staff of three and overseas the entire waterfront operation. (21+; experience in lifeguarding and waterfront guarding is preferred. Red Cross certification in lifeguarding, WSI, and waterfront management is necessary). Lifeguards spend time in waterfront activities and assist with general counselor cabin duties. (18+; lifeguard certification is necessary). • CAMPPOWER STAFF provide behind the scenes assistance for the camp (most CampPower positions offer semi-private accommodations!). Positions are available in the kitchen (chef, assistant chef, and kitchen help), maintenance, and laundry. IF YOU ARE MISSING OR HAVE AN EXPIRED CERTIFICATION, THE CAMP MAY BE OFFERING THE COURSE THIS SUMMER. PLEASE INQUIRE! |
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TIME COMMITMENT |
The 2008 camp season runs from June 18th through August 24th, and kicks off with a nine-day orientation period filled with teambuilding, information, activities, and camp preparations. Although residential camp is a 24/7 commitment, the staff enjoys daily scheduled free time and organized nights-out throughout the summer (in addition to 3-4 day breaks in between sessions). |
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PERKS & REWARDS |
Benefits include room, board and a stipend ranging from $1,100 to $2,800 (dependent on position, education and experience). You'll also have the chance to make a difference in a child's life while making friends that last a lifetime. |
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THE ESSENTIALS |
All positions require everyone to team-up and make this program an amazing experience for the campers. It takes a 100% commitment on the part of the staff to be flexible enough in all aspects of the program, to be willing to pitch in where help is needed, and to make camp all that it can be. Be ready to be silly, to sing and act, to listen and support, while always remembering that the safety, health and experience of the campers are most important. Most staff members are college students or professionals in the fields of child-care, education, social work, human services, or recreation. Flexibility, maturity, and patience are the most valuable attributes you can bring to camp with you. |
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YOUR FIRST MOVE |
To begin the application process, email your resume, cover letter, and three written references to Laura Henrich. |
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CONNECTIONS |
Laura
Henrich |
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NAVIGATION |
HFH Summer Camps
can be found in the Summer
Camp Jobs
channel |
