Each Summer, Delaware-Otsego Audubon Society operates a summer day camp program, originally established by DOAS Board Member and local environmentalist, the late Dr. John New, in 1972. We are working hard in post-COVID times to fully reinstate the program and expand it in 2024 through a new summer internship program. Camper registration materials are expected to be available on April 1.
DOAS Youth Outreach Environmental Education (EE) Internship
2024 Summer Position – June 3 to August 9, 2024 (10-week program)
2 Positions Available
Description:
The DOAS Youth Outreach EE Internship Program immerses the intern in hands-on outdoor and environmental education activities for the full ten weeks of the program. Following a rigorous training program that overviews several of the National EE Curriculums and a variety of outdoor and team building group activities, interns will use new and existing resources to develop detailed outlines for three 4-day camp sessions (1 each for children entering grades 1&2, 3&4, 5&6, respectively) as well as a series of family programs to conduct throughout the summer (3 per week when camp sessions are not taking place). In addition to these responsibilities, interns are expected to perform administrative tasks required for the successful operation of the program, including following safety procedures, camper drop-off and pick-up, daily administrative tasks, and general reporting responsibilities. The program will be overseen by DOAS Board Directors, Susan O’Handley and Chris DeCesare, both of whom are experienced Environmental Educators.
This program is a great way for a high level undergraduate or graduate student to gain valuable real-world experience in the field of Outdoor Education, Environmental Education, as well as those seeking Educator positions with a School District. It also provides a strong foundation for working within the non-profit sector.
Responsibilities:
Work as part of a team to develop age-appropriate activities and detailed outlines for summer day camp program and general audience family programs; Assist with development of promotional materials as needed; Adhere to documented safety plan protocols to provide an environment where all can learn through fun activities; Supervise campers and groups participating in programs; Compile end of day summary reports and document details on any issues that arise during programming; Submit list of materials and supplies needed for programs and procure upon approval with expenses paid from DOAS fund; Interact with parents and relatives on an ongoing basis throughout programming weeks; Represent DOAS professionally at all programs and events. Carry out additional work at the DOAS Sanctuary grounds as well as participate in other environmental programs as possible within the program schedule.
Requirements:
A strong interest in biology, earth science, or related fields in conjunction with an interest/experience in youth education. Undergraduate and Graduate Students from an accredited college or university are encouraged to apply and must include contact information for their Department Supervisor. Candidates must provide their own reliable transportation and housing. A GPA of 3.0 or higher is preferred. Must be able to traverse trails at the DOAS Sanctuary in Oneonta, NY by foot several times per day. Applicants must pass a NYS Background Check and have current First Aid/CPR Certifications.
Compensation:
10 week program (40 hours per week, 4th of July Paid Holiday) – $6,000.
Season Overview
The following schedule is subject to change, but provides a general overview of what is expected.
Week 1 (June 3-7): Program Training
Week 2 (June 10-14): Development of Outlines
Week 3 (June 17-21): Safety Certifications and Family Programming
Week 4 (June 24-28): Site Preparations and Family Programming
Week 5 (July 1-5): Final Program Preparations and Family Programming
Week 6 (July 8-12): Day Camp Session 1
Week 7 (July 15-19): Family Programming
Week 8 (July 22-26): Day Camp Session 2
Week 9 (July 29-Aug 2): Family Programming
Week 10 (Aug 5-9): Day Camp Session 3 and Season Wrap Up
DOAS Policy Statements:
All applicants must agree to abide by the board-approved policy statements below.
Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion:
Diverse perspectives are essential for the effective achievement of the vision and mission of our organization. We respect the individuality of each member of our community, and we are committed to providing an environment that is free of any kind of discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, disability, national or ethnic origin, politics, income level, or veteran status.
Operational Code of Ethics:
DOAS Board, Staff and Volunteers, as representatives of the organization, will be held to the highest ethical standards in their behavior when interacting with each other and members of the public, particularly when carrying out related operational tasks and responsibilities. This applies also to those participating in events that are presented by DOAS.
CONGRATULATIONS!
We are excited to announce our 2024 Summer Interns:
Cami Parisi and Kaylee Haig
Welcome! We will have more informaton about our Camp Program soon!
