Wisconsin Farmers Union, a member-based advocacy organization, enhances the quality of life for family farmers, rural communities and all people through educational opportunities, cooperative endeavors and civic engagement. Educational efforts focus on renewable energy, land conservation, sustainable farming, fair trade and local foods. Since 1930, WFU has championed cooperatives and other community-based businesses as one of the best ways for people to meet needs.
WFU summer camps deliver a unique blend of cooperative philosophy, leadership development, and social justice education to rural and urban kids, while building awareness of the value of family farms and strong communities.
POSITION DESCRIPTION
- is on call 24 hours a day as needed while camp is in session, though breaks are provided;
- helps to plan, facilitate and supervise classes and activities;
- resides in and supervises a camper cabin;
- helps settle minor disagreements between campers, etc. (any questions, refer situation to Camp Director, as some infractions are grounds for Governing Board review or more serious action);
- sees to camper welfare & growth--helps campers make friends and get involved in activities;
- uses common sense in every situation; and
- serves as outreach staff for day camps and special events away from camp.
With sufficient experience/training, ,may be combined with a variety of other roles such as: Assistant Director, Camp Medic, Lifeguard, Cooks, Communications (photos/social media), and more!
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
In order to staff or volunteer at Wisconsin Farmers Union Camps, individuals must meet the following essential functions:
- Pass background check and drug test
- Provide proof of up-to-date on COVID-19 vaccination
- Be able to meet personal needs (bathing, toileting, dressing, diet management, etc.).
- Sleep in a non-air-conditioned, dormitory-style cabin (rustic, but with modern toilet/shower facilities) with up to 17 campers and at least 1 other staff during camp sessions AND be accommodated with multiple host families for extended overnight stays during outreach/events (up to two weeks of continuous travel—pending COVID-19 conditions).
- Able to lift and carry up to 50 pounds for short distances over uneven terrain in all weather conditions.
- Move independently and function in outside environments that include direct exposure to sun, heat, cold, rain, wind, water, humidity, dirt, dust, noise, traffic conditions, and uneven surfaces.
- Communicate calmly, clearly and effectively in a high-stress/emergency situation.
- Capable of maintaining effective mental, emotional and social interactions in our group-based, youth centered and community living program.
- Ability to maintain mental, emotional and social resiliency (such as handling stressful situations appropriately) needed for the job in a fast-paced, interactive environment.
- Ability to establish and maintain appropriate professional relationships and Interpersonal skills (skills used to reduce stress, reduce conflict, improve communication, enhance intimacy, increase understanding, and promote joy).
- Ability to interact effectively with individuals and groups respecting social and cultural diversity and to maintain appropriate boundaries.
- Ability to use effective and appropriate self-care practices for maintaining overall wellness and capable of managing any chronic illness or condition (First Responder or EMT is on-site).
- Ability to recognize and consider the needs of others (including campers and staff members) in daily interactions and decision-making.
Must be eligible to work in the U.S.
Rolling arrival dates in May to accommodate college exam schedules. Orientation and training from mid-May to early June includes topics and skills such as group facilitation, camper safety, risk management and crisis preparation, food safety, lesson planning (cooperatives, civics, social justice, land and food issues), youth development, meetings and event preparation, and more.
WFU summer staff will gain skills and experience in:
- Group Facilitation
- Outdoor and Indoor Recreation
- Youth Development and Supervision
- Risk Management and Crisis Planning
- Food Safety (ServSafe Food Handler certification provided)
- Event Planning and Travel Logistics
- Project Management and Evaluation
- Public Speaking and Presentation Skills
In particular, WFU camp staff positions offer a fantastic opportunity for Education and pre-Education students wanting to gain direct experience working with youth in both classroom and non-classroom settings. All staff will contribute significantly to instructional planning and delivery for the camp's educational sessions, including work on curriculum development, large and small group facilitation, behavior management, and discussion leading, all under the guidance of a camp director with extensive experience as a professional educator. Daily class sessions that staff will plan and lead include classes on Wisconsin Farmers Union history and organization, cooperative businesses and principles, and social justice/environmental sustainability issues.