Miniwanca Jobs

Leader In Training

LITs work as leaders in training, learning a variety of camp roles. They support cabin leaders in Boys Camp and Girls Camp to help leader groups of 5 to 6 campers. They also support the in-camp community through specialized work with the Activities Team and/or Waterfront Teams. In addition, LIT receive additional training and evaluation beyond staff training, participating in regular group and one-on-one meetings for professional development. Summer 2023 will include 2 to 3 weeks of paid staff training, followed by two three-week camp sessions ending August 6.

Essential Functions

  • With the support of 1 to 2 cabin leaders, provide 24-hour supervision and mentoring to campers in a cabin setting. Live with and eat meals with a cabin group, helping each camper to adjust to camp life and to achieve his/her personal best.
  • Organize and plan small group conversations and lead or participate in Night’s Doings
  • Assist in setting up, facilitating, and breakdown of evening activities and special events, including Night’s Doings, Four Fold Tournament events, etc.
  • Set a high standard of respect for self, others, and the space though promptness, language, attitude, and participation
  • Promptly discuss any difficult situations that arise in camper or staff relationships, discipline, and other areas of concern with the Coordinator and Director
  • Establish personal and professional goals for the summer and work toward those goals
  • Complete all job functions, including requested records, written reports, and end-of-summer letters to camper families, and other duties as assigned.

General Functions

  • Encourage leadership development, healthy community living, Best Self practices and balanced Four-Fold growth according to the philosophy of AYF by instruction and example.
  • Protect the safety and health of campers by adhering to community expectations and following all policies and procedures outlined in the Staff Handbook, including our alcohol-, drug-, and tobacco-free camp policy and AYF COVID-19 Staff Eligibility and Expectations.
  • Fully participate in and be present at all community activities and staff training

Required Skills

  • Strong emotional and mental health. Must be adaptable and exhibit good judgement to determine what is in best interest of the campers in their care.
  • Effective communication with youth participants and adult staff across a wide range of identities and backgrounds. Ability to foster positive relationships.
  • Ability to understand, promote, actively include, and work effectively with diverse perspectives and identities
  • Thorough understanding of critical issues shaping the lives of young people in the U.S., especially racial and gender equity, inclusivity, justice, ethics, and cultural competency

Education, Experience, or Certifications  

  • Must either be 18 or have graduated from high school
  • Previous experience working with children, adolescents and/or young adults required
  • Strong teaching/facilitating and leadership skills preferred
  • Current certification in CPR and First Aid (training available for accepted applicants)

Benefits 

  • Weekly pay: $450
  • Referral Bonus: $200 paid at the end of summer for each hired employee the applicant refers
  • LITs will receive one day off for every six days worked.


Frequently Asked Questions

What do we do in staff training?

LITs will learn all about the mission, philosophy and values of the American Youth Foundation. They will learn how to work with campers, how to teach activities, and will work to build our positive community. By the end of staff training, LITs will be prepared to support in the daily tasks of camp, including leading cabins, activities, and more.

Is food and housing provided

Yes, food and housing is provided for the entirety of your contract with Miniwanca.

What do the living arrangements look like

LITs will live together in one of our screened cabins. When covering a leader’s day off, LITs will stay in that cabin with the campers until the leader arrives.

I have never been to camp before. Is that okay

It is not uncommon for LITs to experience camp and Miniwanca for the very first time. LITs should be open to new experiences and ways of operating when they come to Miniwanca, especially if this is their first time at Miniwanca or at a summer camp in general.

What if I have dietary needs?

Miniwanca is able to work with a variety of dietary needs and allergies. At each meal, Miniwanca will provide a dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegetarian option. Miniwanca is peanut- and tree nut-aware and will not serve anything with those products in it. Some snacks and desserts may be created in a facility that uses peanuts or tree nuts, and safe alternatives will be offered when those are the general option.

I don’t have a car. How do I get to camp?

Miniwanca will pick up staff members on specific days from local airports and bus stations. If you do not have a car and are interested in using public transportation to get to camp please talk to your supervisor about what options are available to you.

What a summer at Miniwanca looks like: