Director Of Camping & Outdoor Education

Description

The Director of Camping & Outdoor Education provides visionary and hands‑on leadership for all camping and outdoor education programs, advancing the YMCA mission to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind, and body for all.

This leader models and upholds the YMCA core values of Faith, Caring, Respect, Responsibility, and Honesty while providing strategic direction, operational excellence, and a welcoming camp culture. The Director is a visible, energetic presence who leads from the front while also carrying essential administrative and leadership responsibilities. This role plays a key part in growing camper participation, expanding programming, strengthening partnerships, and supporting the camp’s annual campaign.

• Lead, supervise, and develop year‑round and seasonal camping and outdoor education staff in alignment with YMCA values
• Foster a culture of caring, respect, responsibility, and honesty, ensuring all staff feel supported, accountable, and mission‑aligned
• Recruit, hire, train, and evaluate staff and volunteers who model positive character and servant leadership
• Provide clear expectations, regular feedback, and professional growth opportunities

• Design, implement, and evaluate high‑quality day camp, overnight camp, and outdoor education programs that nurture faith, character, leadership, and a love for the outdoors
• Grow camper enrollment and expand programs to reach new families, schools, and communities
• Ensure programs are inclusive, engaging, safe, and developmentally appropriate
• Regularly assess program impact and make data‑informed improvements

• Lead camper recruitment and retention strategies in collaboration with marketing and advancement teams
• Build relationships with families, schools, and community partners
• Recruit and support volunteers who contribute meaningfully to camp programs

• Develop and manage program budgets with a strong sense of responsibility and stewardship
• Ensure deadlines, reporting, and operational requirements are met with accuracy and integrity
• Oversee program logistics, schedules, and risk management practices
• Ensure compliance with YMCA policies, safety standards, and accreditation requirements

• Develop and maintain strong school partnerships for outdoor education programs
• Support the camp’s annual campaign by sharing stories of impact, collaborating on engagement opportunities, and supporting fundraising efforts
• Serve as an ambassador for the camp and the YMCA mission within the community

• Ensure a safe, welcoming, and values‑centered environment for all campers, staff, and guests
• Maintain or willingness to obtain required certifications, including:
• Level 2 ACCT (preferred)
• Lifeguard Certification
• Target Sports
• YMCA Team Leader
• Serve as a visible leader during camp operations, modeling professionalism, and integrity

Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. At the Y, we strive to live our purpose of strengthening communities with intention and purpose every day.
We welcome all: we are open to everyone.
We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality.
We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world.
We nurture: we support you on your journey to develop your full potential.
We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger, beginning with you.

We believe meaningful work deserves meaningful perks! As a full‑time exempt team member, you’ll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes flexible medical, dental, and vision plans, supplemental insurance options, paid training, generous PTO, and an HSA match. You’ll also receive a complimentary nationwide YMCA family membership, exclusive discounts on YMCA programs like swim lessons and camps, and access to our YMCA Retirement Plan—so you can grow, thrive, and plan for your future while making a difference every…