Classification: Seasonal-Summer
Location: Glisson’s Sparrowood Program
Reports to: Outpost & Sparrowwood Program Director

Minimal Qualifications:

• Active Christian faith
• Passion for coaching youth/adults with mild to moderate developmental disabilities and building Christian community
• Willingness to support the theological doctrines and practices of the United Methodist Church
• At least one year of college completed
• A background check will be conducted for this position
• Ability and willingness to:
  • practice servant leadership while working collaboratively within a team
  • facilitate harmonious relationships and interactions between campers and fellow staff members
  • perform in potentially strenuous physical activities (hiking, lifting, etc.)
  • give and receive constructive feedback
  • solve problems creatively in fast-paced and at times high-stress environments
  • nurture values for nature and creation within self and campers

General and Specific Responsibilities: 

• Ensure High-Quality Camper Supervision
• Coach and supervise youth/adults with mild to moderate developmental disabilities in an overnight camp environment Sunday-Friday for 9 weeks
• Maintain supervision of and responsibility for up to two campers each sparrowwood week
• Regard safety (physical and emotional) as the first priority and most important consideration in every circumstance
• Fully orient campers to camp living (cabin space, bunks, bathroom, dining hall, meeting rooms, etc.)
• Oversee camper safety and general well-being
• Tend to campers’ individual needs and health concerns
• Belay campers at our Challenge Course
• Maintain clean and organized living and common spaces
• Foster a group culture that encourages team-building and belonging among campers
  • Collaborate with other counselors to plan and lead activities that are differentiated for your campers each week
  • Plan and debrief activities to allow for growth and reflection in individual and spiritual growth
  • Practice and teach small group camping as detailed in staff training
• Allow space for campers to discover and practice their God-given gifts and strengths and leadership abilities
• Ensure adherence to NGCRM’s core values (Radical Acceptance, Unconditional Love, Experiential Learning, and Christian Community) in daily interactions.
• Maintain Missional Focus
  • Incorporate provided curriculum throughout daily activities and routines
  • Emphasize intentionality in spiritual growth and development
  • Coordinate morning devotionals and worship/reflection experiences with your group
• Fully Participate in Staff Trainings Prior to Camper Arrival (as designated by Program Director)

Note: All Sparrowwood counselors fulfill a dual role working with both the Sparrowood and Village programs for differing numbers of weeks during the summer. Please see the Village Counselor job description for more information.