Rhyolite in Ctr. Tuftonboro, New Hampshire 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

Rhyolites learn the ins and outs of working at summer camp by gaining hands-on experience across camp roles. During portions of the summer, Rhyolites are paired with cabin leaders and program specialists to help lead and cover a group of campers; in the remaining weeks, Rhyolites engage in and support the in-camp community and develop new skills by working with various camp teams, such as logistics, waterfront, activities, food program, and facilities. Rhyolites also lead their own programming, such as skits, assemblies, and interest groups, and focus on their personal and professional development through consistent meetings, trainings, and workshops with their small group.

Job Locations

• Merrowvista – Center Tuftonboro, New Hampshire
• Merrowvista necessitates the ability to move through rugged terrain.
• Rhyolites live onsite during staff training and the two camp sessions, including weekends and evenings, and may occasionally be asked to sleep in a cabin with campers, as necessary.
• 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

Camper Supervision

• Primarily responsible for the health, safety, and wellbeing of campers assigned to your care.
• Live with and eat meals with a cabin/village group, providing supervision and helping campers develop friendships, explore their capacities, and experience joy at camp.
• Coordinate with cabin leaders and program specialists to cover their activities and campers without major disruption to the camper experience.
• Appropriately manage behavior challenges and conflict with a sense of respect for young people and a focus on developing the social-emotional health of campers.
• Utilize coordinating and supervisory staff to adequately meet the needs of campers when necessary.
• Guide individual campers and the cabin group in participation in individual, village, and all-camp activities.
• Aid in supervision of an onsite overnight trip, such as hiking or canoeing.

Rhyolite Program Duties

• Facilitate highly engaging activities that allow for skill development, social interaction, and opportunities for campers to challenge themselves and fail safely.
• Teach interest groups, and organize and help facilitate small and large group activities.
• Coordinate the daily bell schedule and ring bells at designated times.
• Plan and lead highly engaging daily assembly skits for the whole camp.
• Oversee preparation and assist with leading fire circle ceremonies.
• Broaden your experience and skills by working on a variety of camp teams, including logistics, waterfront, activities, food program, and facilities.
• Attend and engage in regular Rhyolite meetings and professional development opportunities with your group.
• Promptly discuss any difficult situations that arise in camper or staff relationships, behavior, health, or other areas of concern with your Program Coordinator.

General

• Set a high standard of respect for self, others, and the space by being prompt, present, and engaged with a positive approach.
• Actively participate in all camp activities with enthusiasm, creating an inclusive environment that encourages all campers to participate.
• Provide mentorship and connection to all campers in the community with whom you interact.
• Model responsibility and compassion for campers in all activities, such as cleaning cabins or the eating lodge.
• This is not meant to be a complete list of all responsibilities. Other duties may be assigned.

Skills and Qualifications

Required:

• Age/eligibility: Graduating high school seniors.
• Current CPR and First Aid certification (training available for accepted applicants).
• Previous experience working with children, adolescents, and/or young adults.
• 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.
• 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 to explore through play and creating a space where youth feel included and a sense of belonging.
• Fully 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:

• Strong teaching/facilitation skills.
• Demonstrated history of leadership with youth or young adults.

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.