Position Title: Program Specialist

Position Location: Timber Pointe Outdoor Center, 20 Timber Pointe Lane, Hudson, IL 61748

Position Objective:

The Program Specialist, as one of Timber Pointe’s Summer Support Staff members, has a key role in fostering a camp community full of meaningful connection and positive development, a community that takes on challenges together, experiences the therapeutic benefits of nature and recreation, and gains new life experiences daily. The Program Specialist helps create a summer full of intentional programming, limitless adaptive activities/adventures, epic quests, scrumptious s’mores, creative ways to connect, and a whole variety of messy and meaningful memories.

The Program Specialist will assist the Program Manager in the planning, preparation, and supervision of all activities across various Timber Pointe summer programs. Activities include rock climbing, zip-lining, giant swing, canoeing, archery, fishing, cooking, science, arts and crafts, sports and games, scavenger hunts, game shows, and so much more! Summer programs consist of day camp and overnight camp sessions, which include sessions of our own Timber Pointe campers as well as sessions of partner camps such as MDA Camp for children with muscular dystrophy, Camp JOA for adults with juvenile-onset myotonic dystrophy, and more.

This position serves as immediate support for Program Staff, championing the mission of Timber Pointe and its’ infusion into the experiences of campers, volunteers, and staff. The Program Specialist ensures activities are accessible for campers/guests of all ability levels, thinking outside the box to modify and adapt elements of activities to fit the needs and strengths of each individual so that everyone is 100% included and empowered.

This role maintains a critical and creative eye across multiple domains, implementing schedules while bringing magic and imagination to life through every aspect of the camp experience. They must possess strong logistical skills, providing the tools, support, and resources to help create dynamic, intentional, and successful programming. They will help ensure staff have the guides and materials necessary to lead activities, facilitate smooth and timely transitions, carry out camp-wide adventures, and push campers to dream, wonder, and dare.

Staff members are required to live on-site during the season but may leave during off-times. Meals will be provided throughout each camp session (we are inclusive and accommodating of any dietary restrictions), and a refrigerator/microwave will be available for use. Cabins are climate-controlled, and laundry facilities are available on-site. In addition, camp staff may use watercrafts (canoes, kayaks, etc.) and the pool during off-times if there is no programming running and all camp policies regarding the use of these areas are followed.

Employment Dates:

The employment dates for the Program Specialist run May 17th - August 9th, 2025. The start date is tentative and may change slightly due to aspects of training.

The Program Specialist is required to attend mandatory training: Support Staff Development held on May 17th, 2025, Program Staff Development Week held on May 18th - 23rd, and All Staff Development Week held on May 25th - 30th. Camp Season runs June 1st - August 9th, 2025. The Program Specialist must begin on the training start date and be available for the entirety of the dates listed. If there is a prior commitment (wedding, family gathering, etc.), please state it during your interview, and we will try our best to accommodate.

The Program Specialist will receive at least one day off per week and additional times off depending on which programs are running that week (Partner Camps, TPOC Overnight/Day Camps).

Position Pay:

The Program Specialist will be paid a rate of $465/week (a total of $5,580 over the course of the summer). There is a possibility remote work prior to on-site arrival. This remote work will be paid at an hourly rate of $15.00.

Job Functions:

• Assist Program Manager in the supervision of Program Staff, activity operation and facilitation, observing activities to ensure best practices in safety, inclusivity, and facilitation techniques. Act as a resource, utilizing knowledge/experience to introduce strategies and improvements in these areas to Program Staff, aiding in the growth of their own skillset and “toolbox.”
• Facilitate activities as needed in our primary program areas (Rock Wall/Zip Line, Arts & Crafts, Giant Swing, Sports & Games, Cooking, etc.), specialty theme activities and all-camp activities/evening programming.
• If needed, serve as a lifeguard during swimming (pool) and lakefront activities (canoeing, kayaking, etc.)
• Plan ahead to organize, transport, prep, and set up supplies needed for large group activities and/or assigned activity areas, delegating tasks to Program Staff, Counselors-in-Training, volunteers, or other camp staff clearly and effectively.
• Oversee and assist with cleanup of activity areas/supplies after use and the organization/maintenance of areas/supplies, communicating to the Program Manager if inventory is low or things needs repaired/replaced.
• Assist as needed with camper care including toileting, transferring, showering, etc. Nurture campers’ development, self-esteem, and independence in areas including: behavior, social interaction, and emotional regulation.
• Assist with and lead decorating, mealtimes, clean-up, and other tasks assigned to best ensure the success of camp.
• Identify and respond to environmental hazards at camp; respond to written emergency plans and verbally issued instructions; assist campers safely and effectively during potential emergencies.
• Communicate orally and in writing with campers, staff, and supervisors; complete paperwork as needed and ensure all program paperwork is completed by Program Staff (ropes logs, etc.)

Marginal Responsibilities:

• Attend and participate fully in mandatory training (“Staff Development”) at the beginning of summer, learns and retains information presented in a variety of learning environments (including role-play scenarios), and utilizes this knowledge to provide the best possible experience for campers/guests.
• Other duties as assigned.

General Expectations

• Live with campers and staff of all ages and abilities in a cabin, helping them adjust to camp life and grow in understanding of other campers/staff and the dynamics of community living.
• Support Timber Pointe programs and Program Staff in the delivery of intentional programs, seeking to maximize fun while increasing connection, autonomy, resilience, and positive self-image for each camper participating.
• Utilize adaptive strategies and a strengths-based approach to ensure all activities are universally accessible and in line with the Timber Pointe mission of inclusivity and empowerment. Contribute to the innovation and execution of unique, engaging, and themed programming relevant to our population’s needs and abilities, so that all campers are able to participate, recognizing that participation may look/sound different for each camper.
• Provide a physically and emotionally safe environment for campers and staff where they feel comfortable trying new things and communicating concerns. Set campers and staff up for individual growth and success.
• Serve as a mentor/coach to camp staff, Counselors-in-Training, and volunteers, helping them navigate challenges, and providing check-ins, encouragement, motivation, and feedback. Monitor the “pulse” of team dynamics and communicate conflicts, performance issues, or potential improvements/solutions to supervisor.
• Maintain camper and staff confidentiality at all times, and respect the confidentiality of support team discussions/responsibilities
• Participate fully in the camp program, including: leading or assisting with activities, managing behavior, following the daily schedule, engaging with campers during “down times,” and putting an enthusiastic effort into camp traditions, dress-up days, songs/cheers etc. (the goofy parts of camp that make it truly magical!)
• As needed, provide constant supervision of campers with limited breaks; sleep subject to the understanding of being woken up during the night to assist campers/staff if necessary.

Education/Experience Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED, required.
• College experience in Therapeutic Recreation, Special Education, Outdoor Education, or related field. Preferred, but not required.
• Current Lifeguard/CPR/First Aid certification or willingness to get certified required (We will fund a course)
• Minimum of one year of experience working with individuals with disabilities.
• Minimum of two years of experience working in a camp environment.
• Proven experience in facilitating activities with youth and/or individuals with disabilities.

Competency Requirements

• Ability to provide direct, effective, and respectful feedback to others.
• Ability to build community and camaraderie defined by love, mutual respect, dedication to growth, and playful interactions.
• Emotional and physical stamina to engage with a community of campers and staff for 12 weeks joyfully and enthusiastically in a summer camp environment.
• Patience, willingness to learn, integrity, adaptability, flexibility, enthusiasm, and self-control
• Ability to understand, role model, and follow policies and procedures and to utilize strategies/tools taught during training for professional development and interactions; ability to seek/accept supervision and guidance.
• Accepting of differences in ability/religion/ethnicity/culture/race/gender/sexual orientation and/or other diversities. Willingness and ability to treat all campers and staff fairly, regardless of background/preferences.
• Perform all essential functions listed while demonstrating the emotional resiliency to handle extended, repeated stressful situations appropriately and be capable of “self-management” of his/her/their own conditions with reasonable accommodations, which can be made without altering the requirements of this role.

Physical Requirements

Due to the fast-paced schedule, stimulating sensory experience of large-group living and dining, and emotionally/physically demanding role of a staff member, all team members must have the physical, cognitive, and mental ability, as well as strength and endurance to perform all job functions and expectations listed. Additional physical requirements include:

• Ability to independently navigate, participate in and provide supervision to active/outdoor activities spread out over Timber Pointe’s 170-acre facility, which may include without limitation walking long distances, running, paddling, crouching, reaching, pulling, and lifting 50 pounds or more.
• Emotional and physical stamina to engage with a community of campers and staff for 12 weeks joyfully and enthusiastically in a summer camp environment.

Work Environment

• Outdoor camp environment with exposure to all types of weather and conditions, including extreme heat, cold, snow, rain, and specific environmental realities (humidity, wind, bugs, lake water, etc.)
• Reside in camp cabins in a bunkbed with limited privacy and infrequent, minimal access to technology (internet, cell phone, etc.).

Prior to applying to Timber Pointe Outdoor Center’s 2025 Summer Team, please be ready to commit to providing the safest camp environment possible. As a camp who serves immunocompromised populations, 2025 Timber Pointe Summer Team members will be required to practice intentional COVID safety and consciousness for the entirety of their summer agreement. All staff will be required to be tested weekly and practice safe hygiene protocols. Masks may be a requirement (for our current weekend camps, all campers/staff/volunteers mask when going through the meal line and when participating in cooking class). While vaccination is not currently required, it is highly recommended.

Easterseals Central Illinois is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Easterseals is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, call 309.686.1177.