Volunteer

Volunteer

Number of Positions: 1-2 per camp session

Reports To: Assistant Counselling Director

Compensation: Meals and accommodation provided for session

Location: Camp Merrywood (Perth, ON); Camp Woodeden (London, ON)

Employment Dates: Various, based on sessions

Overview

At Easter Seals Ontario, we provide overnight camping opportunities for kids and young adults with physical disabilities. Each summer we welcome staff from all over the world and pride ourselves on providing an awesome pre-camp training, so our staff are equipped with all the skills they need to give our campers a great experience. Our camps make many traditional summer camp activities accessible and inclusive, such as swimming, boating, archery, high ropes, and more! Check out our website to learn more about our locations in Perth, Ontario and London, Ontario.

The role of the volunteer within the camp is dependent upon the volunteer’s training, experience, and abilities. Responsible for providing support and help within a camper cabin, while not being left alone in the sole position of care or duty over a camper or a group of campers. Volunteers are contracted for one session or multiple sessions each summer at both Camp Merrywood and Camp Woodeden.

Summary of Essential Job Functions

• Role of the volunteer within the camp is dependent upon the volunteer’s training, experience and abilities.
• Responsible for providing support and help within a camper cabin, while not being left alone in the sole position of care or duty over a camper or a group of campers.
• Adhere to and support all camp policies, procedures and guidelines as detailed in the Camp Resource Manual.
• Perform any other duties as assigned by the Assistant Counselling Director.

Physical Aspects of the Job

• Ability to communicate and work as a member of a team.
• Ability to observe camper behaviour and apply appropriate behaviour-management techniques, enforce appropriate safety regulations and emergency procedures.
• Physical ability to respond appropriately to situations requiring first aid. Must be able to assist campers in an emergency (fire, evacuation, illness, or injury) and possess strength and endurance required to maintain constant supervision of campers.
• Able to manage some bending, stooping, and stretching as well as daily exposure to the sun and heat and varying environmental conditions.

Minimum Requirements

Minimum age: 18 years.

Must be able to provide own personal care or have made arrangements with an attendant to meet their personal care needs. Preference will be given to staff who have worked at an Easter Seals camp.

Other Considerations

• Easter Seals Ontario camps are fully accessible and provide camping experiences to kids and young adults with disabilities.
• Must provide clear background check.
• It is required that all volunteers be fully vaccinated against Covid19 and follow the health and safety recommendations provided by Provincial and Regional Health Units.
• Volunteers are required to participate fully in the camp activities. This may include swimming every day, sailing, dressing-up and working with children/youth all day.
• Onsite housing and meals provided on camp session days.
• Volunteers may apply to attend single sessions, multiple sessions, or the full season.

Easter Seals Ontario welcomes and encourages applications from people with disabilities. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. Easter Seals Ontario fosters an environment of inclusivity, empowerment, and safety for participants and staff alike. Easter Seals Ontario is committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity for all employees and to providing employees with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All employment decisions are based on job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to race, colour, religion or belief, national, social or ethnic origin, sex, age, physical, mental or sensory ability, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital, civil union or domestic partnership status, past or present military service, family medical history or genetic information, family or parental status, or any other status protected by the laws of Ontario.