Naturalist Counselor, Glen Helen Ecocamp

~ Glen Helen is the legacy of alumnus Hugh Taylor Birch, who, in 1929, donated the wooded glen to Antioch College in memory of his daughter, Helen. With this gift, the College accepted the responsibility of preserving the land in perpetuity. Additional gifts have expanded the preserve, which now encompasses 1000 acres, all accessible from a 20-mile network of footpaths. ~

Today, our mission is carried forward by the privately funded, Glen Helen Ecology Institute at Antioch College, which manages the land and coordinates the educational programs of The Glen.  During a short walk, visitors can view spectacular wildflowers, 400 year-old trees, limestone cliffs with waterfalls and overhangs, and the beautiful yellow spring for which the town is named.

The Glen is an integral part of the legacy of the College and will be an important resource for the development of its curriculum. For Antiochians, the identity of the College and Glen Helen are inseparable. For nature enthusiasts, The Glen is a valuable resource for hiking, birding, and exploration.

As a private, nonprofit, Glen Helen depends on the support of individuals through the Glen Helen Association, to maintain the preserve and its exciting and varied programs. The Glen Helen Association is a membership-based friends organization, founded in 1960 to support Antioch College and its efforts to protect the Glen. 

Position Overview

Ecocamp kicks off with an intensive 8 day training starting on June 2nd. The Naturalist Counselor leads a trail group of 8-12 children each week in activities that fit the theme of the week (see Camp Descriptions). Camper ages range from 5 to 16, and Naturalists are offered a choice for their preferences for ages and themes. Naturalists rotate in as cabin counselors 2-3 nights each week, depending on the camp. Camps run every week from June 11 to July 23rd, with no camp the week of July 2nd to 6th.

Our counselors form a fun, passionate, engaged learning community who are interested in a making a difference in the lives of children and in our world. You are well trained and supported by the Director and three Co-Coordinators. This is a summer job that will strengthen your ability to plan, teach and lead. We share the values of being inclusive, of growing the skills of learning and communication that allow us to become better people and to live and work together effectively. Staff live in one of three rustic houses in the midst of the beautiful 1,000-acre Glen Helen Nature Preserve. The vibrant and artistic Village of Yellow Springs is within walking distance. No vehicle is required for the job, but you are welcome to bring one.

Responsibilities

• Design experiences and activities for campers each week
• Lead Trail Groups from Monday morning to Friday afternoon, for six weeks
• Serve night rotations in cabins, from 1-4 nights each week, depending on camp
• Support overall camp operations through daily and weekly responsibilities throughout the Outdoor Education Center

Qualifications

• Passion for working with children outdoors, nature, adventure and teaching
• Able to be patient and caring with children
• Willing to work and live in the community and work as a team
• Minimum 18 years of age
• In-person CPR and First-Aid certification prior to program start - we will provide training
• Ability to hike uneven terrain for six 3-hour hikes per week in all weather and work long days/night rotations
• Pass BCI/FBI background check

Compensation

• $200 weekly stipend, paid bi-weekly
• Room for all 7 weeks of camp and board for 6 (14 meals/week) including vegetarian and vegan meals
• Opportunity to strengthen teaching and naturalist skills
• Naturalists are trained to work and teach with our turtles and snakes, and learn about birds of prey at our Raptor Center
• Freedom to create activities and learning based on personal passions and interests
• Opportunity for extended Glen Helen experience by becoming a 2018-2019 Outdoor School Teacher Naturalist (Now Hiring for this position also)
• July 4th week off