What are the responsibilities and job description for the Camp Inclusion Facilitator position at Saint Louis Zoo Openings?
Responsibilities: Work with all campers in need of support, regardless of identified or diagnosed needs. Provide inclusion support for campers ages 5 to 14, to the maximum degree of involvement possible. Help adapt activities to ensure camper participation and success. Provide support to campers as they integrate into daily camp life. Facilitate camper relationships and encourage social interaction. Provide positive reinforcement and other behavioral intervention to facilitate camper involvement in the group and activities. Promote camper connection to animals and the Zoo, and enjoyment of the program. Respond to questions that might arise from typically developing campers, counselors, or volunteers regarding working with campers. Communicate effectively with parents, Zoo educators, camp directors, and inclusion team regarding the needs of the participants. Maintain confidentiality. Complete all necessary camper documentation. Function effectively as a collaborative team member and a source of expertise and support, for counselors, camp community and education team members, while modeling a passion for inclusion. Provide families with the practical guidance they need to make a camper’s week the best week of their summer. Model a positive attitude, camp energy, compassion and empathy while on the job.
Work Monday to Friday, some Thursday evenings instead of Fridays. June – early August.
Qualifications: Passion for working with all children, regardless of their background or ability, and desire to provide the opportunity for them to play, learn and have positive social interactions. A bachelor’s degree in OT, PT, Special Ed Recreational Therapy or related field required. Experience working with special needs populations and children of varying ages a must. Demonstrated experience in assisting children with self-regulation challenges, and ability to work with challenging behaviors required. Ability to work both independently, and as a collaborative team member. Compassion, flexibility, a positive attitude and a desire to create a safe and fun learning environment for all children, that allows them to connect to the natural world. Must possess excellent customer service, organization and communication skills, and exemplify the Zoo’s values. Must be willing and able to work outside daily and walk around the Zoo up to 4-5 miles per day, and lift 20 lbs. Experience with trauma informed care preferred. Must submit to a background check and drug test.