Social Worker

Sababa Beachaway is a co-ed residential summer camp for rising fourth through twelfth graders, located in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Sababa immerses campers in the magic and majesty of the beach, adds the right amount of Jewish spiritual practice, and provides a fun, non-competitive yet challenging camp experience.

Sababa meaning “no worries” inspires us to be in the moment and fully present in all we do. We believe that surfing, sailing, scuba, ocean arts and ocean science promote wonder, awe, and curiosity - the cornerstones of Sababa Judaism. We celebrate that campers come from all different Jewish backgrounds, and that is what makes the Sababa Beachaway community so awesome!!!

Position Summary:

The Lead Social Worker is responsible for maintaining Sababa Beachaway’s emotional, social, and spiritual health initiatives, ensuring strong support systems for campers and staff. As a member of the management team, the Lead Social Worker will support camper intake to support camper readiness and wellness before, during and after camp. They will supervise a second social worker and/or other mental health provider.

Camper Care

• Implement and manage camper support systems to ensure the physical, social and spiritual health of campers and counselors;
• Collect and review camper intake information prior to the start of camp to develop and draft camper behavioral plans and contracts where appropriate;
• Provide outreach to campers’ home support network (e.g., psychologists, social workers) as needed;
• Respond to mental health crises, providing immediate support and de-escalation as needed;
• Debrief and provide guidance to campers and staff after crises or traumatic events; follow up with camper families in coordination with the Camper Care Director;
• Communicate with parents/caregivers regarding camper needs and progress;
• Record mental health interventions, successes, and challenges in the camp data management system ensuring data/information accuracy and attention to detail;
• Collaborate with the medical team to support campers needing medical procedures or behavioral support with the goal of returning campers to programming;
• In partnership with the camp leadership team, serve as a resource to campers, parents, and staff regarding MESSH challenges, fostering an environment for growth and success;
• Provide support and be an emotional resource to counselors, specialists, and group leaders to problem-solve issues;
• Communicate with parents in coordination with the Camper Care Director and/or camp leadership to maintain open discussions regarding camper growth or challenges;
• Review camper care logs and ensure appropriate follow up with counselors, health team and others as needed;
• Build and maintain strong relationships with families, providing excellent customer service and ensuring positive engagement with Sababa

Experience, Qualifications & Skills:

• Clinical or counseling background, licensure, or training in child/adolescent development, mental health, or wellness strongly preferred;
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in youth development, camping, education, or related fields;
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience required, advanced degree in education, social work or related field preferred;
• Demonstrated passion for youth development and education, and you are genuinely excited about camp life. You understand the importance of the camp experience and align with the mission and goals of the camp.
• Demonstrated knowledge of child/adolescent development, mental health, and camper care, and ability to create systems that support the emotional, social, and spiritual well-being of campers and staff;
• Detail-oriented and organized, with experience managing camper data and forms and processes that ensure accuracy, efficiency, and a smooth experience for families;
• Must have proven skill in the use of Google apps (Gmail, Docs, Sheets and Calendar).
• Experience mentoring/supervising and training staff;
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse populations; and
• Current CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).

Compensation: $2,500 - $3,000 per month, pro-rated during PT months; meals and housing included during camp season.