Description American Youth Foundation Mission We dare people to discover and celebrate the very best in themselves and others; inspire them to explore diverse perspectives and complex challenges; and embolden them to live courageously, engaging their full capacity.
Job Summary Drivers are responsible for transporting campers, staff, and equipment to various locations throughout the summer, including airport, bus, train, and ferry runs; Four Trails/wilderness trip drop-off and pick-up sites; emergency hospital transportation; and town runs. Some trips may be multiple days. This role works with a variety of age groups, from elementary through high school, and is responsible for creating an emotionally and physically safe environment for all participants.
Job Locations
- Miniwanca – Shelby, Michigan
- Miniwanca necessitates the ability to move through rugged terrain.
- Drivers live onsite during staff training and the two camp sessions, including weekends and evenings, to be available 24 hours/day in case of emergency response.
- Housing and all meals are provided.
- Staff live in a communal space with other staff, or in cabins with campers, depending on position.
- Maximum driving time per day is 10 hours.
Job Type Seasonal
Company Culture The AYF believes that how we act and interact reflects who we are as a community. In practice, at the AYF we value investing in youth, stewarding the environment, encouraging participants and staff to explore and develop their values and beliefs, belonging in community, and growing together. Recognizing the full value of all, the American Youth Foundation affords equal opportunity for employment and program participation to all individuals on the basis of merit and/or eligibility without regard to race, color, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, familial status, religion, national origin, citizenship, disability, age, military status, or any other basis prohibited by law.
Position Responsibilities
- Responsible for the health, safety, and wellbeing of campers assigned to your supervision.
- Safely transport campers, staff, and equipment to and from various locations – including airport, bus, train, and ferry runs; Four Trails drop-off/pick-up sites; emergency hospital transportation; and town runs – using a 15-passenger van and trailer as needed.
- Work with the Transportation Coordinator or Four Trails Manager to schedule all summer driving needs.
- Assist with basic vehicle maintenance (gas, tire pressure, check fluids, etc.) and work with facilities staff to monitor and maintain vehicle readiness throughout the summer.
- Support canoeing, cycling, hiking, and sea kayaking trips, providing assistance to campers and staff as needed.
- Issue out-camping gear, equipment, and food for trips, and return items at the trip’s conclusion.
- Be onsite and in condition to drive at all times when assigned; some driving may occur under emergency situations.
- Assist with camp transportation and program needs when necessary.
- Role model the AYF mission and values.
- This is not meant to be a complete list of all responsibilities. Other duties may be assigned.
Requirements
Skills and Qualifications
Required:
- Minimum age: 21 years old.
- Clean driving record and license in good standing.
- Good organizational and decision-making skills.
- Ability to positively interact with youth and young adults.
- Exhibit strong judgement for the safety of staff and participants.
- Must be in good physical condition: able to walk through rugged terrain, lift up to 45 pounds, and swim/boat at length in various bodies of water, as applicable to site.
- Ability to maintain focus for extended periods while assessing risks and supervising campers.
- Ability to effectively manage emotions to remain focused on what is in the best interest of campers in a variety of situations.
- Ability to communicate effectively with campers and staff.
- Ability to respond to and direct campers and/or staff in an emergency.
- Ability to maintain a physically and emotionally safe environment for campers.
- Support the organization’s mission and vision with integrity, dependability, and accountability.
- Interact effectively with individuals and groups respecting social and cultural diversity. Establish and maintain appropriate professional relationships and interpersonal skills that contribute to a positive community.
- Demonstrate passion for serving youth, encouraging campers to explore through play and creating a space where youth feel included and a sense of belonging.
- Fully participate in and be present at all camp community activities, including staff training activities.
- Maintain effective mental, emotional, and social interactions in our youth-centered residential summer camp program.
- Ability to handle stressful situations appropriately, maintaining mental, emotional, and social resiliency needed for the job in a fast-paced, interactive environment.
- Use effective and appropriate self-care practices for maintaining overall wellness.
- Follow all guidelines and policies as described in the AYF (American Youth Foundation) staff manual.
Preferred:
- Experience with larger vehicles (15-passenger vans, trailers, etc.); experience backing up a trailer.
- Experience in the outdoors and with related gear, equipment, and food.
- Previous experience in the camp field.
- Previous experience working with youth.
- Michigan drivers: Chauffeur’s license.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the individual(s) assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and skills required for this position. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an “at will” relationship.