KEY FUNCTION: The MESH Specialist (referred to at camp as the Camp Support Specialist) supports the emotional and psychological well-being of the camp community, including campers, volunteers, and staff. They assist the camp staff with addressing MESH or behavioral issues that may arise during camp, including daily MESH needs and MESH crises.
QUALIFICATIONS: Graduate level degree and current licensure in social work, psychology, counseling, marriage and family therapy, child development, crisis intervention, or a related field; at least 2 years of practice experience preferred. Experience in oncology or camping preferred.
Relevant certification or training in trauma-informed care, child development, or mental health support preferred, but not required
Valid Driver’s license
Self-motivated, good character, adaptability, enthusiasm, and sense of humor, patience and self-control
Open and honest in relationships; willing to learn from experience
Compassionate and empathetic; able to offer empathy and non-judgmental support.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills to effectively engage with children, staff, and families.
Willingness to participate in camp activities
Flexible and able to respond positively to changes in duties or schedule
GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES Work as a member of the Camp Health Care team collaborating with other providers and other camp staff to provide emotional and psychological support in a fast-paced, high-stress environment
Encourage an atmosphere of respect, acceptance, & enthusiasm
Follow and enforce all camp policies, rules, and regulations
SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES (Note: must be onsite during the camp session)
- Attend pre-camp training
- In collaboration with other mental health and health care team members present child development and MESH sessions at precamp training.
During the camp sessions:
- Provide emotional support to community members, helping them navigate MESH challenges (eg, treatment- or illness-related, grief and loss, missing home).
- Work with camp directors and medical staff to identify and respond to MESH situations (distress, anxiety, trauma-related symptoms) or crises (self-harm, suicidality, etc).
- Collaborate with other staff to promote MESH well-being of community members.
- Assess and make referrals as needed for MESH concerns.
- Maintain the medical log and participate in record keeping for MESH events.
- Notify Chief Camp Health Care Provider and other relevant camp directors immediately when any MESH incident or illness occurs, additional assistance or transport is required, or the emergency contact must be called for a camper or volunteer.
- Attend daily staff meetings as directed by the Chief Camp Health Care Provider.
- Other duties as needed or desired.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Protect confidentiality of campers and staff
Able to observe and assess the MESH status of campers and staff, & respond to their MESH needs
Possess strength & endurance required to maintain supervision of campers and staff
Able to identify & respond to hazards; able to assist in emergency situations
Able to communicate by phone, & operate a vehicle in emergency situations
Form a team with other camp staff that is dedicated to providing the best camp experience for all campers
POSITION TYPE: Volunteer, duties primarily occur onsite during the camp sessions
RESPONSIBLE TO: Executive Director, Deputy Director, Medical Director / Health Care Administrator, Chief Camp Health Care Provider.