Girls Camp Office Specialist in Shelby, Michigan at AMERICAN YOUTH FOUNDATION

American Youth Foundation Mission

We dare people to discover and celebrate the very best in themselves and others; inspire them to explore diverse perspectives and complex challenges; and embolden them to live courageously, engaging their full capacity.

Job Summary

The Office Specialist provides general administrative and office support throughout the camp season, including answering phones, greeting and welcoming guests and camp families, sorting and distributing mail, prepping packets and materials for villages/campers, and supporting camp administrative staff and directors. The Office team is often the “face” of the organization, interacting daily with camp families, vendors, clients, and the camp community. When office duties are covered, the Office Specialist assists with camp programming and activities as needed.

Job Locations

• Miniwanca – Shelby, Michigan
• Miniwanca necessitates the ability to move through rugged terrain.
• The Office Specialist lives onsite during staff training and the two camp sessions, including weekends and evenings.
• Housing and all meals are provided.
• Staff live in a communal space with other staff, or in cabins with campers, depending on position.

Job Type

Seasonal

Company Culture

The AYF believes that how we act and interact reflects who we are as a community. In practice, at the AYF we value investing in youth, stewarding the environment, encouraging participants and staff to explore and develop their values and beliefs, belonging in community, and growing together.

Recognizing the full value of all, the American Youth Foundation affords equal opportunity for employment and program participation to all individuals on the basis of merit and/or eligibility without regard to race, color, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, familial status, religion, national origin, citizenship, disability, age, military status, or any other basis prohibited by law.

Position Responsibilities

• Serve as the face of the camp office for campers, staff, and families, creating a friendly and welcoming environment; answer phones and provide excellent customer service to families, vendors, and clients.
• Sort and distribute daily mail and packages.
• Assist with camp administrative needs: assembling mailings, organizing luggage tags, prepping packets, and preparing and distributing materials.
• Support the health, safety, and wellbeing of campers in the community, including monitoring camper attendance during activities, helping campers navigate the daily schedule, initiating a search response in case of a camper with unknown whereabouts, and assisting the health team with emergency camper laundry.
• Inventory and track the use of cameras, speakers, projectors, and other AV equipment.
• When the office is covered and work is complete, actively participate in camp community activities – including early morning exercises, morning reflections, evening activities, and mealtimes – with enthusiasm, creating an inclusive environment that encourages participation.
• Provide support in other areas of camp when needed, including temporary staff coverage for absences, illness, terminations, or early departures.
• Build relationships with campers to foster friendly, nurturing, and age-appropriate group dynamics; provide mentorship and connection to all in the community.
• Model responsibility and compassion.
• Communicate daily with supervisor, attend staff meetings, and receive guidance and instruction.
• This is not meant to be a complete list of all responsibilities. Other duties may be assigned.

Skills and Qualifications

Required:

• Minimum age: 18 or older with at least one year of post-high school experience (Merrowvista requires a minimum age of 19).
• Very strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated administrative experience and strong organizational skills; highly organized and administratively proficient.
• Demonstrated excellence in customer service: answering phones, welcoming visitors, navigating customer concerns and requests, providing assistance or redirecting to the correct person.
• Previous experience working with youth and young adults.
• First Aid and CPR certification (training available).
• Strong emotional and mental health. Must be adaptable and exhibit good judgement to determine what is in the best interest of the campers in their care.
• Able to work independently and also as part of a team; be a self-starter, follow projects through to the end, and take initiative.
• Support the organization’s mission and vision with integrity, dependability, and accountability.
• Interact effectively with individuals and groups respecting social and cultural diversity. Establish and maintain appropriate professional relationships and interpersonal skills that contribute to a positive community.
• Demonstrate passion for serving youth, encouraging campers and staff to explore through play and creating a space where youth feel included and a sense of belonging.
• When available and office duties are complete, participate in and be present at all camp community activities, including staff training activities.
• Maintain effective mental, emotional, and social interactions in our youth-centered residential summer camp program.
• Ability to handle stressful situations appropriately, maintaining mental, emotional, and social resiliency needed for the job in a fast-paced, interactive environment.
• Use effective and appropriate self-care practices for maintaining overall wellness.
• Follow all guidelines and policies as described in the AYF (American Youth Foundation) staff manual.

Preferred:

• Demonstrated history of leadership with youth or young adults.
• Experience working in a front-facing office role.
• Prior work with youth, preferably at a summer camp or other recreational program.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office and Teams.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the individual(s) assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and skills required for this position. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an “at will” relationship.