We are on the lookout for five (5) dynamic Inclusive Camp Counsellors to join our team and help us create unforgettable summer memories that is space and inclusive. At the Youth and Family Wellness Camp, every day is brimming with excitement and opportunity. Inclusive Camp Counsellors are integral to the success of day camps and overnight camps at the Youth and Family Wellness Camp. They are responsible for supporting a camper(s) aged 6-15 years old, where additional support and guidance will be provided to ensure inclusion and the needs of the camper are being met, while staying with the overall group that is supported by a Senior and Junior Camp Counsellor.
Position Description:
Inclusion Counsellors play a vital role in ensuring that every camper, especially those with diverse exceptionalities or additional support needs, can fully participate in and enjoy the camp experience. They provide individualized support, build trusting relationships, and create inclusive environments where all campers feel safe, valued, and capable. Whether offering one-on-one guidance, assisting with personal care routines, modifying activities to be accessible, or helping campers practice problem-solving and confidence-building skills, Inclusion Counsellors are essential in fostering a camp environment where every camper can thrive.
Position Title: Inclusive Camp Counsellor
Location: 371 Strecker Road, Kenora, Ontario, P9N 4N8
Report To: Inclusion Supervisor, Youth & Family Wellness Camp
Contract: June 6 – August 21, 2026
Hourly Rate: $17.50/Hour (40 per week) + Bonus Opportunity, $1.00 for every hour worked
if contract is completed
Special Considerations: Mandatory Training: June 6,7, 8, 22 – 30, July 2 & 3
(4 Weeks – July) Day Camp
(2 Weeks, 3 Nights/4 Days – August) Overnight Camp – 3x 12 Hour Shifts
Positions Available: 5 Positions
Duties and Responsibilities:
Be a Role Model of Inspiration:
- Arrive punctually each day, ready to set the standard for behavior and engagement.
- Fully engage in staff training sessions.
- Wear the staff uniform, embodying the essence of camp professionalism.
- Model engaging and well-planned activities that inspire campers and staff alike.
Training & Professional Development
- Participate in YES Program training workshops and onboarding.
- Attend regular check-ins and professional development sessions.
- Complete all job-specific training and demonstrate confidence in assigned cleaning tasks.
- Assist with the design and delivery of staff training, including orientation for summer staff
- Provide mentorship and professional development throughout the summer, focusing on teaching skills, communication, and cultural awareness.
Demonstrate Leadership and Support:
- Understanding of and commitment to fostering an inclusive environment for all campers
- Working along side and within groups of 10-15 participants with the guidance and support of 1 Senior Camp Counsellor and 1 Junior Camp Counsellor.
- Create a unified, positive, and connected team environment for participants and fellow Counsellors that is safe and inclusive for all.
- Facilitate mealtimes with participant(s), support group activities, and foster rapport and connections among team members.
Ensure Camper Engagement and Safety:
- Ensure campers fully engage in all activities and encourage positive behaviors within the group.
- Conduct frequent head counts and respond to any First Aid/Medical concerns for participants.
- Support Camp Counsellors in leading activities, developing new leadership approaches, and t.
- Lead Team-Building Activities as assigned.
Offer On-Going Program Support:
- Work collaboratively with Youth & Family Wellness Camp staff on projects, events, & programs.
- Identify camper needs for cultural, recreational, and social activities in conjunction with the Camp Coordinator.
- Support the development and implementation of various activities, including land-based activities.
- Assist with ongoing outreach to register campers for summer camp programs.
Manage Camper Behaviors with Care:
- Address unsafe behaviors promptly and compassionately, adhering to established policies & procedures.
- Handle incidents, concerns, and parent inquiries with professionalism and kindness.
Demonstrate Consistent and Professional Communication and Administration:
- Liaise with parents/guardians to address upcoming activities, concerns, and urgent situations.
- Participate in staff meetings, evaluations, and maintain cooperative relationships within the community.
- Adhere to uniform and safety protocols, including wearing closed-toed shoes and name tags.
- Take action to address incidents, problems, emergencies, and parent concerns according to policies.
- Maintain cleanliness and respect for Youth & Family Wellness Campgrounds.
Other Duties as Assigned:
- Willingness to adapt working hours based on needs of program
- Be flexible and adaptable, ready to support camp operations in any capacity required.
Qualifications:
- Ability to work independently and in a team setting.
- Knowledge of the Anishinaabe culture and language and experience in working in an Indigenous community or organization considered an asset.
- Must be willing to travel into Youth & Family Wellness Camp each day, either on own or on the community school bus.
- Demonstrated knowledge, experience and/or academic background in working with youth and children in a community-based and land-based setting.
- Proven organizational, communication and interpersonal skills.
- Vulnerable Sector Criminal Records Search or must be willing to obtain certificate prior to commencement of work assignment.
- Knowledge of the Anishinaabe culture and language and experience in working in an Indigenous community or organization considered an asset.
- High Five Certification is an asset.
- Non-Violent Crisis Intervention Training is an asset.
Education and/or Experience:
- College diploma or equivalent community work experience in the following areas:
- Community Services (Child and Youth Worker, Therapeutic Recreation and Leisure, Social Service Worker, Early Childhood Educator); Aboriginal specific programs (Community Advocacy, Education, Child and Family Services
- Aboriginal Studies, Studies in Traditional Teaching)
- Experience working with children and youth in recreation, arts and cultural programming
- Understanding of the Ojibway language is considered an asset
Additional Requirements:
- First Aid qualifications (minimum of Emergency First Aid) is an asset or must be willing to obtain certificate prior to commencement of work assignment.
- Valid driver’s license and vehicle is an asset
- Must be willing to travel when required;
- Vulnerable Sector Criminal Records Search – if 18+ years’ old
Criteria
- Between the ages of 15 to 24
- Be available for the whole summer
- Identity as Indigenous – Asset: Treaty 3
- Enrolled in Post Secondary – Asset
Please forward resume, cover letter, and 3 references to:
Human Resource Department
Kenora Chiefs Advisory
P.O. Box 349- 240 Veterans Drive, 3rd Floor
Kenora ON P9N 3X4
Fax: 807-467-2656
Email: resume@kenorachiefs.org
*We thank all that apply, but only those selected for an interview will be contacted
** Traditional practices involve burning sacred medicines including tobacco, sweetgrass, sage and cedar within the work setting