is often an educational component to each class. But there is another purpose that is both part of training and the day-to-day involvement of counselors. “The most important thing is making sure the kids are safe—safety and fun,” Leon says. In this case, the word “safety” is applied in several ways. Camps ensure that the youth taking part in the programs are physically safe, emotionally safe and mentally safe. “We have such a good reputation,” she adds. “One thing could flip that.” Central Coast YMCA has a core of camp leaders from their after-school programs that run fall through spring. These tend to be instructors with previous training. Counselors recruited for the summer will go through an extensive screening process, with background and reference checks and more. The Monterey Recreation Department puts incoming counselors through training that includes how to perform CPR and other first-aid treatments, conflict resolution and essential counselor-parent communication skills. In addition, they apply all the training required of city employees, such as identifying harassment or what to do in active shooter situations. “It’s different than Target or Starbucks,” Leon observes. “We look for people who are interested in the outdoors, interested in working with kids, who are reliable and are good COURTESY MONTEREY PARKS & RECREATION Counselors need to have an interest in the outdoors and the ability to work with kids, as they are looked to as role models. The activities counselors can take part in are as varied as the number of camps themselves. COURTESY MONTEREY PARKS & RECREATION 26 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY® FAMILY 2025-2026 Elkhorn_1-3h_FG23_KB.indd 1 3/20/24 12:03 PM
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjAzNjQ1NQ==