Boat Operator, Activities Counselor

ACTIVITIES COUNSELOR - BOAT OPERATOR Join us in our mission to provide life-changing experiences that enhance independence and self-esteem for children and adults with disabilities! As a True Friends Activities Counselor - Boat Operator, you'll dive into adventure every day! Lead and support water-based activities, help campers build confidence, and create unforgettable memories on the water. From swimming and boating to fun group games, you'll ensure every experience is safe, exciting, and full of laughter-making a meaningful impact on the lives of campers of all abilities.

Schedule: Seasonal (late May - Mid August), Weekday/Weekend, Day/Evening/Overnight

Location: In person, Camp Friendship, Annandale, MN

Pay: $313-$357 per week based on tenure with True Friends, plus opportunity for end of summer bonus

• 6-7 weeks worked | additional $60 per week worked
• 8-9 weeks worked | additional $70 per week worked
• 10-11 weeks worked | additional $80 per week worked
• 12-14 weeks worked | additional $90 per week worked
• Requirements: Resident or citizen of the USA, in ‘good standing’ with the organization and a live in summer camp staff member (excludes support staff)

• Opportunities to gain and strengthen leadership skills
• Meals and lodging provided during employment
• Gain hands-on, career-relevant experience
• Build your portfolio with diverse work examples
• Work in a scenic and inspiring work environment
• ...and more!

• Operate boats for all water activities (tubing, fishing)
• Maintain water and waterfront equipment (boats, life jackets, tubes, ropes) and areas (beach, dock, storage) used for activities
• Assist in planning, preparing, setting up, and facilitating water and waterfront activities, as well as other program activities (high ropes, arts and crafts, music, sports)
• Ensure safe use of equipment and procedures by all participants, including helping campers get into life jackets and assisting with getting on and off tubes
• Provide a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment for campers in all activities
• Support the health, personal care, safety, and overall wellbeing of campers, including assistance with eating, walking, transferring, toileting, and other needs
• Adapt activities to meet the needs of campers or all ages and abilities
• Foster opportunities for empowerment and independence
• Facilitate team-building, social skill development, and recreational fun.
• Share personal skills and hobbies as a specialized Waterfront, Recreation, or Creative Activities Counselor, or serve as a well-rounded counselor offering a variety of opportunities

• Must be 18 years of age or older
• Must be able to pass organizational background study
• Possess or be willing to obtain MN Boat Operator's permit
• Prior experience facilitating water/waterfront activities
• Willing to step outside your comfort zone and try new things
• Comfortable coaching small and large groups
• Passionate about making a difference in the world
• Comfortable supporting others with daily living skills (training provided)
• Open to living and working in a communal setting
• Eager to take initiative and and demonstrate a strong work ethic
• Flexible and adaptable in an ever-changing environment
• Highly valued, but not required: CPR/First Aid certification, Lifeguard certification, camping experience, prior experience working with individuals with disabilities
• Physical Demands
  • Ability to see, hear, and communicate verbally
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to walk, sit, stand, bend, reach, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, and move continually during working hours
  • Ability to feel objects and use fingers to operate tools and controls
  • May be required to wear a seat harness for up to 8 hours per day, hanging in harness up to 45 minutes at a time

True Friends is a nonprofit organization providing life-changing experiences that enhance independence and self-esteem for children and adults with disabilities. True Friends' programs include camp, respite, retreats, team building, therapy and adaptive riding, and travel; serving over 25,000 individuals annually.