Overview
The American Youth Foundation-Merrowvista is a nonprofit outdoor and experiential education center specializing in youth development and character building for young people ages 8-18. We are a co-ed organization that runs onsite residential programming and wilderness adventure trips, all with the focus of helping young people discover and develop the best in who they are. The Sailing Specialist will support the camp program by instructing sailing, lifeguarding, and working as a member of the waterfront staff team.

Commitment to Equity and Inclusion
The American Youth Foundation enthusiastically welcomes staff and participants with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and identities. AYF seeks to continually assess our practices through a broad lens of cultural competency and is committed to taking action and changing for the better of all. We are firmly committed to maintaining a work atmosphere in which people of diverse backgrounds and lifestyles may grow personally and professionally and all are highly encouraged to apply.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Take an opening inventory of sailing & waterfront equipment, noting any needs.
• Responsible for riggings boats and assisting with waterfront set-up.
• Repair & maintain fleet of sailboats (Pintail, Fishercat, and Rebel, Laser I & Laser II).
• Set-up moorings & boat docking area.
• Teach beginning and intermediate sailing classes.
• De-rig boats at end of camp, prepare boats for winter storage.
• Be knowledgeable of various kinds of boat rescue (windsurfers, canoes, sailboats) and use the motorboat for rescues when appropriate.
• Assist in general waterfront maintenance.
• Create a schedule for sailing camp and instruct campers.
• Serve as a member of the waterfront team, assisting with safety orientation, lifeguarding duties, and planning of waterfront events such as the water carnival.
• Be available to teach sailing during small-group activities, and assist with other waterfront needs during this time.
• Serve as a free-time boat guard as needed.
• Support the Four Trails Program (wilderness adventure trips) on a rotating basis while they are in camp and lead down-time activities.
• Set personal and professional goals for the summer and work towards achieving those goals.
• Participate in community activities and meals, and strive to model the mission and values of the American Youth Foundation.
• Support the in-camp program by leading evening activities, reading stories and supporting campers and leaders during the evening.

Essential Functions:

• Ability to respond to and direct groups of kids and/or staff in an emergency.
• Must be able to lift up to 45 lbs.
• Ability to navigate hilly rooted camp terrain.

Qualifications:

• Minimum 18 years of age.
• Experience sailing Laser I and II boats, instructional experience preferred.
• Current Lifeguard certification (available free during staff training).

Benefits:

• Intensive, quality, paid staff training
• $315+/week
• Certifications
• Housing and food provided for duration of employment
• Beautiful location