Advocate Camp Counselor for children with disabilities, School Break Camps

Advocate Camp Counselor for children with disabilities, School Break Camps

Be a role model and make camp possible for every child.

JCC Greater Boston is looking for caring, patient, and enthusiastic Advocate Camp Counselors to join our School Break Camps. You will work directly with campers who have disabilities and individualized needs, using Individual Camper Plans (ICPs) and support from the Inclusion Team to ensure each child feels safe, supported, and fully included in all camp activities.

• Connect with campers each morning, welcoming them and reviewing the day’s schedule.
• Support campers in joining their bunk and participating in sports, arts, crafts, and swimming.
• Model patience, empathy, and creativity as campers navigate challenges and celebrate successes.
• Collaborate with co‑counselors and the Inclusion Team to alter supports as needed.
• Ensure camper safety and well‑being during structured and unstructured times.
• Assist with swim supervision, providing support or participation as required.
• Communicate consistently with co‑counselors and leadership to maintain support continuity.
• Model positive behavior and serve as a resource for buddy campers.

Staff are scheduled by the day and shift. Available shifts are:

• Full Day: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm (8 hours)
• Morning Shift: 7:30 am – 3:30 pm (8 hours)
• Afternoon Shift: 10 am – 6 pm (8 hours)

• December Camp:
  Dec 24, 26, 29, 30, 31 and Jan 2
• February Camp:
  Feb 16‑20
• Passover Camp:
  Apr 3, 6‑10
• Spring Break Camp:
  Apr 20‑24

• Build an inclusive group dynamic and implement accommodations from ICPs.
• Advocate for camper strengths, needs, and independence.
• Engage campers in bunk life and all activities.
• Maintain camper safety during all times.
• Supervise and participate in swim sessions.
• Communicate regularly with co‑counselors and leadership.
• Model patience, empathy, and positive behavior.

• Create a welcoming dynamic that values each individual.
• Be an essential team member and support JCC’s mission and values.
• Represent JCC with excellence and enthusiasm.
• Attend required meetings and trainings.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Negotiation, conflict resolution, and problem‑solving.
• Thinking on your feet and leadership skills.
• Social‑emotional knowledge and collaboration.
• Flexibility and project management.

• 10th grade (or equivalent) and eligible for a work permit.
• 1+ season of experience working with children (summer camp, babysitting, coaching).
• Preferred: concentration in Special Needs, Special Education, or related field.

• Enjoy working with children and helping them grow.
• Strong safety awareness and communication.
• Patience, flexibility, teamwork, and creativity.
• Positive attitude and relationship building.
• Problem‑solving, initiative, and collaboration.
• Commitment to building strong relationships with campers, coworkers, and leadership.

• Work well in a dynamic, noisy environment with multiple tasks.
• Handle varied weather conditions for extended periods.
• Lift and carry 30‑40 lb objects.
• Sit, kneel, and get down to eye level with children.
• Swim and supervise children in the pool.

Individuals must possess the knowledge, skills, and abilities listed above or be able to explain and demonstrate that they can perform the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodation.

• Hourly pay starting at $15 per hour (subject to qualifications and internal equity).
• Health & fitness center access.
• Paid time off and events.
• Workplace culture: inclusive, collaborative, supportive.

JCC Greater Boston has been committed to creating a vibrant, inclusive, diverse community by nurturing meaningful, lasting relationships since 1983. It offers a range of programs, including camps, teen and family programs, and wellness services.

JCC Greater Boston is an equal‑opportunity employer. JCC does not discriminate on the basis of gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, race, age, veteran status, or disability. All applicants are encouraged to apply.

To learn more about this position, please visit the JCC Greater Boston careers page at https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..