Job Posting

Job Title: Canoe Tripper
Location: Elmwood, Ontario – Between Hanover and DurhamO, ntario
Dates of Employment: June 26th, 2023 – August 26, 2023
About Us:
Since 1971, Camp McGovern has been faithful to the original vision of providing
underprivileged children and youth with the opportunity to go to overnight camp. At Camp
McGovern we serve approximately 75 kids a week – all of whom are referred through
Children’s Aid, United Way Agencies or Big Brothers Big Sisters. We are situated on 120
acres located along the beautiful Saugeen River, near Hanover, Ontario.
Our team of staff and volunteers put on an array of activities throughout the week including:
Arts & Crafts, Nature Programs, River Rides, High/Low Ropes, Archery, Swimming, Canoeing,
Campfires, Games and more. Camp McGovern is a welcoming, safe environment where
Campers and Staff come from all walks of life and experiences. We value friendships, we
foster leadership and we hold a shared passion for having FUN.
If you want to make an impactful difference while utilizing your experiences, education,
leadership and skills, then this may be the perfect fit for you!
Job Description:
Camp McGovern is a registered charity seeking a Canoe Tripper for our summer camp
operations. We are looking for an enthusiastic candidate who has a big heart, a positive
attitude and a desire to be a leader in the camp community.
The role of Canoe Tripper is to educate campers on the fundamentals of canoeing while
exposing their potential for personal growth and leadership development through
participation. They will work closely with other leaders and staff to develop a canoeing
experience for campers that is both fun, therapeutic, and empowering. The Canoe Tripper
will provide participants with the skills they need to go on a canoe trip down the Saugeen
River.

Job Responsibilities:

● The Tripper will produce a canoe program that is designed to develop both technical
and interpersonal skills while also focusing on developing campers’ self-esteem,
self-confidence and leadership potential
● Responsible for reviewing the camp’s existing canoe program, equipment and routes,
making the necessary recommendations to ensure the program is safe and meets
regulatory guidelines.
● Document lesson plans, routes and emergency management plan on the camp’s
cloud-based data filing system.
● Responsible for teaching general camping and wilderness skills.
● Collaborate with the LIT and CIT program’s leadership staff to aid in the preparation
and successful execution of the session’s end 5-day canoe excursion.
● Coordinate and communicate all necessary information regarding river trips and
camping excursions, including destinations, camping site locations, emergency stop
locations, supply needs and a detailed itinerary.
● Work with the camp’s health care staff to ensure that all campers are medically fit to
participate in the trips, while also ensuring that they are properly equipped.
● Perform lifeguarding duties at camp.
● Lead in the organizing and setting up of the canoe program prior to the start of camp
with a focus on ensuring that canoeing safety practices and policies meet the
required OCA standards.
● Ensure all safety policies and procedures are adhered to while being a positive
presence at all times.
● Manage the canoe programs so there’s an appropriate level of supervision.
● Build positive relationships with campers and staff to ensure a safe and enjoyable
camp experience.
● Document camper accomplishments.
● Facilitate team building activities for campers, and modify programs for campers
with limitations.
● Conduct daily checks of all relevant safety equipment, along with first aid supplies.
● Ensure that the canoe program area is kept tidy and safe, and report any
deficiencies.
● Participate in camp special events, cabin supervision, and other camp duties as
required.
Our ideal Canoe Tripper:
● Fosters self-esteem, social skills, and respect for others.
● Uncovers potential for personal growth in campers.
● Nurtures mentoring, teamwork, and leadership development.
● Uses any relevant training and experience to make a program that includes
cooperation, teamwork and problem solving.

● Is a positive and conscientious professional who, in collaboration with the rest of the
camp staff, ensures a safe and fun experience for our campers.
● Has strong interpersonal skills, including patience and communication
● Is empathetic to the diverse group of campers that we serve.
● Is safety driven in everything they do.
● Provides comfort and support when someone needs it.
● Communicates well and seeks help when needed.
● Is organized and keeps accurate records.
● Understands the importance of camper confidentiality, but knows when a disclosure
is required (training provided).
● Is resourceful and creative when it comes to canoeing activities.
● Is able to take initiative to create activities on the spot.
● Has experience working with people of diverse backgrounds. We do not discriminate
on the basis of race, color, origin, age, sex, sexual orientation or disability.
Qualifications:
● At least 19 years of age.
● Valid First Aid/CPR-C.
● Wilderness and Remote First Aid
● ORCKA
● A satisfactory Police Records Check – including the Vulnerable Sector Screening
(dated within 3 months of employment).
● Bronze Cross/Medallion (Current National Lifeguard Qualification or NL Waterfront
ideal but not necessary)
● Certifications in Challenge Courses, Lifeguarding, Wilderness First Aid etc. are
considered an asset, but not required.
● Experience in camp settings, youth programs, recreation, supporting children with
special needs, outdoor education, forest school or related fields would be considered
an asset.