Volunteer Roles
Head Counselor
Head Counselor
What does the head counselor do?
The head counselor is responsible for training volunteers prior to the beginning of the camp week. During camp, the head counselor is responsible for conducting daily meetings with counselors, assisting counselors in resolving issues with campers, and working with the camp site leader.
Time commitment: 8:15 – 4:15 each day for day camps, the entire week for overnight camps (with time off scheduled each day)
Who makes a good head counselor?
- Two prior years’ experience as a counselor at Reading Camp or a similar summer camp program
- Self-aware, willing to learn and ability to support the counselors
- Good organizational skills and communication skills
- Comfortable interacting with adults as well as peers
- Ability to empower others
- Ability to plan activities
Counselor
Counselor
What does a counselor do?
The counselor works directly with the children to move them through activities and build relationships of trust and respect. Counselors at day camps are responsible for chaperoning afternoon field trips. Counselors at overnight camps are responsible for cabin/room supervision and overseeing all daily activities.
Time commitment: 8:15 – 4:15 each day for day camps, the entire week for overnight camps (with time off scheduled each day)
What makes a good counselor?
- Ability to work well with children and adults
- Conflict resolution and behavior management skills
- Positive role model
- Ability to have fun but establish boundaries
- Ability to promote good hygiene and nutrition
- Good communication and problem solving skills
- Team player
- Ability to empower others
Teacher
Teacher
What does a teacher do?
The teacher is responsible for planning for and teaching in Learning Centers.
Time commitment: 8:15 – 12:15 each day (additional evening responsibilities possible at overnight camps)
Who makes a good head teacher?
- Certified teacher or education student
- Understanding of instructional materials
- Ability to plan lessons in cooperation with the site leader
- Team player
- Good organizational skills and communication skills
- Comfortable interacting with children and peers
- Ability to empower others
Buddy Reader/Teaching Assistant
Buddy Reader/Teaching Assistant
What does a Buddy Reader/Teaching Assistant do?
A Buddy Reader/Teaching Assistant reads with campers in the buddy reading station or assists teachers in other stations. He or she may also assist the site leader with other tasks as needed.
Time commitment: 8:15 – 12:15 each day (additional evening responsibilities possible at overnight camps)
Who makes a good Buddy Reader/Teaching Assistant?
- Flexible
- Ability to interact with children and adults
- Ability to take direction
- Team player
Food coordinator – day camps only
Food Coordinator
What does a Food Coordinator do?
A food coordinator is trained in administering the federal summer feeding program breakfasts and lunches (training provided), and completes all necessary paperwork. This individual also sets up breakfasts, snacks, and lunches and ensures that eating areas are left clean.
Time commitment: 8:00 – 1:30 each day
Who makes a good Food Coordinator?
- Ability to lift and carry boxes of food
- Attention to detail to complete paperwork appropriately
- Flexible
- Energetic
- Ability to interact with children, adolescents and adults
Bus Monitor – day camps only
Bus Monitor
What does a Bus Monitor do?
A bus monitor rides the bus either to or from camp each day. The monitor works with the driver and calls parents as needed and ensures that the safety rules of the bus are followed.
Time commitment: 7:00-8:30 AM OR 3:50-5:30 PM each day
Who makes a good Bus Monitor?
- Willing to contact parents by phone concerning drop-off and pick-up
- Flexible
- Ability to interact with children and adults