Role Overview…
Join the adventure as an Outdoor Centre Contact Staff! The YMCA of Three Rivers is seeking vibrant and passionate individuals to be part of our dynamic team. Explore the great outdoors, inspire young minds, and make unforgettable memories at Camp Ki-Wa-Y's Outdoor Centre!
As an Outdoor Centre Program Instructor Staff, you will play a key leadership role in creating exceptional experiences for visiting groups while supporting the delivery of engaging outdoor education programming. In addition to facilitating activities such as guided hikes, ecological lessons, team-building initiatives, and ropes courses, you will serve as the primary point of contact for groups throughout their stay.
Working closely with teachers, group leaders, and your fellow staff, you will gather and communicate booking details, coordinate daily schedules, respond to changes as they arise, and help ensure programs run smoothly from arrival to departure. As a leader within the instructional team, you will provide clear communication, support staff coordination, and help maintain a high standard of guest service. Rain or shine, you will engage participants of all ages and abilities, bringing the magic of outdoor learning to life while ensuring every group feels welcomed, supported, and connected.
As one of the largest YMCA camp providers, the YCMA of Three Rivers plays a leading role in providing quality camp experiences for our guests. The Outdoor Centre at Camp Ki-Wa-Y hosts thousands of guests from diverse backgrounds throughout the season. It is our goal to provide accessible, inclusive, and proactive opportunities for personal growth and involvement to help build a stronger, healthier, and more vibrant community.
What you will do…
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Deliver outdoor education and recreation programs for a variety of groups, including schools, youth organizations, sports teams, and adult participants. Facilitate activities such as high and low ropes courses, archery, orienteering, fire building, shelter building, and team-building initiatives
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Ensure the safety of participants by actively monitoring programs and responding promptly to concerns or incidents
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Act as the primary on-site contact for assigned groups, coordinating programming, responding to needs, and maintaining communication from pre-arrival through post-visit follow-up
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Coordinate daily schedules and program adjustments in collaboration with visiting group leaders and centre staff
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Provide leadership, supervision, and mentorship to Program Instructors, supporting staff development and performance processes
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Assist with inventory management, equipment organization, and overall program readiness
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Support seasonal staff training and onboarding
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Ensure Health and Safety procedures are followed and contribute to maintaining a clean, organized, and safe site
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Build and maintain positive relationships with participants, staff, volunteers, and community partners
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Support the development, promotion, and evaluation of outdoor education and leadership programs
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Perform additional duties as assigned to support organizational goals
What you will bring…
- Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and fostering a sense of belonging.
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A commitment to working in a socially inclusive environment and the ability to respond sensitively to the diverse needs of participants
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Minimum 1-year prior experience working at an outdoor centre in program facilitator role
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Previous experience working with children and adults in settings such as classrooms, after-school programs, outdoor education centres, camps, or similar environments
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Effective leadership, teaching, facilitation, and communication skills.
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Well-developed interpersonal and relationship-building skills, with the ability to establish rapport and communicate effectively with participants, staff, volunteers, and community partners
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Strong professionalism and ability to serve as a positive role model
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Current Standard First Aid and CPR-C certification (or willingness to obtain)
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Successful completion of a Vulnerable Sector Police Record Check within the past six months
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National Lifeguard certification is considered an asset
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Challenge Course/High Ropes training and experience is considered an asset
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Flexibility to work a variety of shifts, including days, evenings, weekends, holidays, and occasional overnights on call
What you will gain….
You will join a dynamic team and an organization that has a massive impact across our community. You will be joining a local organization, but you will also be a part of a global movement. Your work will have impact and the community we all call home will be a little better every day because of you.
Please note: As an organization committed to the safety and well-being of children, youth and other vulnerable populations, we prioritize the protection of those under our care. All employees must meet specific requirements, including obtaining a clear Police Vulnerable Sector Check and providing three professional references.
The YMCA of Three Rivers proudly serves the communities of Guelph-Wellington, Stratford-Perth, and Waterloo Region. Our purpose is to make our diverse communities healthier and more vibrant. With dignity and respect, our programs and services inspire individuals to reach their full potential. Learn more about our history, mission, vision, and values here.
The YMCA of Three Rivers embraces diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace, welcoming applications from all qualified persons. Our goal is to attract, develop and retain highly talented employees from diverse backgrounds, allowing us to benefit from a wide variety of experiences and perspectives.
In accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005, accommodation will be provided at any point throughout the hiring process, provided the candidate makes their accommodation need known to the YMCA of Three Rivers. The YMCA of Three Rivers complies with the Employment Standards Act, Pay Equity Legislation and privacy laws. In keeping with privacy laws, we are committed to protecting personal information by following responsible information handling practices. For more information on the YMCA of Three Rivers’ commitment to privacy, please visit our website.
Please note that due to the large volume of applications received, only candidates being considered for the position will be contacted.
To explore additional career opportunities with the YMCA of Three Rivers, please visit our Career Page.
