To Become a counselor for ryla

The volunteer counselor staff is an integral part of the Camp RYLA leadership team. Passion for youth as  well as enthusiasm and dedication to working with youth are key characteristics of the RYLA counselor.  Communication skills – both the ability to listen and to speak – are critical to the success of RYLA  counselors. RYLA counselors are the gateway for RYLA campers to experience positive adult role models  that exemplify the ideals of Rotary, ethical behavior and the 4-way test, and service above self. This is  demonstrated in the commitment of time and giving of themselves to achieve an exceptional RYLA  experience. RYLA counselors receive professional level training in small group facilitation, working with  different personality types and effective communications, and then have the opportunity to put these skills  into action throughout the week. RYLA counselors often comment that their own personal growth  exceeded that of even the campers. Truly a life changing experience!   

RYLA counselors will be asked to actively participate in all activities, training and orientation related to  Camp RYLA. They will be required to fill the role as cabin counselor and work group counselor. As cabin  counselor, they will have oversight of approximately 10 campers. A work group will consist of  approximately 10 campers. A counselor is expected to be willing to challenge themselves and step outside  their own comfort zone. They should approach activities with an open mind and be willing to grow  themselves. They should be eager to engage in conversation, initiate activities, provide oversight and  guidance to campers, and constructive feedback to Camp staff and directors. The ability to be flexible and  work cooperatively with others is a must.   

1. Participation – Counselors are expected to take an active role throughout the camp. Counselors  must be willing to “open up” and be authentic with the campers as appropriate. Counselors must  also be cognizant that the camp is for the youth, and therefore they must judiciously limit their  participation in some activities.   

2. Facilitator – Counselors will be asked to discuss and debrief presentations and activities with  their cabin or work group.   

3. Presenter – Counselors may be asked to lead an activity with their cabin group or work group.   

4. Role Model/Leader – Counselors will be expected to set an example for campers in the way they  interact with campers, RYLA staff and Grizzly Creek Ranch.   

5. Cabin Chaperone – Counselors have direct responsibility for a cabin consisting of approximately  10 campers of the same gender as counselor. Counselors sleep in the same cabin as the campers in a  separate room.   

6. Observer – Counselors will be asked to be observant of the campers so that issues that arise can  be addressed.   

7. Camp Guidelines/Rules – Program directors will outline and request campers to make a  commitment in following camp guidelines/rules. Counselors will be responsible for oversee the  campers’ commitments to follow camp rules as needed. If necessary, counselors should refer  concerns to Camp Director and Program Director for further action.   

8. Coordinator – Coordination between campers, work group, other counselors, camp director,  program director, and medical person as needed.