Camp Counselor

At Florida Diabetes Camp, our counselors are at the forefront of providing a transformative experience for children living with type 1 diabetes. This role combines medical management, leadership, emotional support, and teamwork to ensure that all campers are safe, supported, and engaged in an unforgettable camp experience. 

Qualifications:

• At least 19 years old and at least one year of college or work experience
• Desire and ability to work with children outdoors in a camp setting
• Commitment to creating a positive, inclusive, and safe camp environment.
• Strong interest or personal connection to diabetes care and management.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team and adapt to dynamic situations.
• Commitment to attend the entire week of camp, and endurance to maintain consistent supervision of campers for a week-long camping experience

Reporting to: On-site Camp Director and On-site Medical Director

Key Responsibilities:

Before Camp:

• Complete all necessary paperwork and background checks.
• Acquire a basic understanding of type 1 diabetes and complete mandatory training.
• Attend a pre-camp orientation to prepare for the upcoming session.

During Camp:

• Work closely with co-counselors to create a safe, supportive, and enjoyable experience for campers with type 1 diabetes.
• Attend to the daily medical needs of campers, including monitoring blood glucose and administering insulin, and consult regularly with medical staff to ensure comprehensive diabetes care.
• Utilize specialized knowledge in diabetes management, diabetes technology, carbohydrate counting, emergency preparedness, and actively managing glucose level changes.
• Provide education to campers on diabetes management and create a safe environment for them to express their feelings and concerns, whether related to diabetes or not.
• Lead campers in various activities such as arts and crafts, waterfront sports, and evening events, fostering positive interactions among campers and with staff.
• Keep the cabin organized to maintain a conducive living and learning environment.
• Maintain accurate records of campers’ medical information and communicate effectively with medical staff to ensure the well-being of campers.

After Camp:

• Lead discussions with parents about their child’s camp experience and medical care.
• Participate in debrief sessions, sharing insights and experiences to improve future camps.

Volunteer Medical Teams

Each camp session is staffed with a team of volunteer healthcare professionals, ensuring continuous and comprehensive care for campers. These volunteers give their time and expertise to provide a safe and supportive environment for children managing type 1 diabetes.

Diabetes Provider Team

The Diabetes Provider Team includes MDs, DOs, DNPs, APRNs, CDCESs, and pharmacists, all volunteering to provide direct care and oversight during camp sessions. Their responsibilities include:

• Conducting medical intake for each camper at the start of the session.
• Leading daily rounds with cabin staff to ensure proper diabetes management and medical safety.
• Providing infirmary care and treatment for any medical issues that arise.
• Assisting campers with diabetes technology, such as Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) and insulin pumps.
• Rotating overnight calls to ensure that medical support is available around the clock.
• Leading educational sessions to teach campers about diabetes management in a hands-on, engaging way.

Nurse/Pump Team

The Nurse/Pump Team, consisting of volunteer Registered Nurses (RNs), Registered Dietitians (RDs), and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialists (CDCESs), plays a key role in managing medications and providing care during activities. Their responsibilities include:

• Organizing medications, checking in non-insulin prescriptions, and maintaining medication schedules.
• Conducting blood glucose checks during camp activities and providing immediate care if needed.
• Managing the infirmary and providing care to ill campers.
• Assisting with diabetes technology such as CGMs and insulin pumps.
• Conducting overnight medication rounds to monitor campers’ well-being.

Mental Health Team

The Mental Health Team consists of volunteer Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), psychologists, psychiatrists, and therapists. They provide emotional and psychological support to campers and staff throughout the camp session. Their responsibilities include:

• Offering counseling services on an as-needed basis for both campers and staff.
• Managing mental health crises as they arise.
• Participating in group educational sessions to promote mental health awareness.
• Documenting any mental health services provided during the camp.