Volunteer Art Therapist

Position Title: Volunteer Art Therapist 
Contract Length: 5 days, 4 nights
Location: Okanagan, BC
Compensation: Unpaid volunteer position
Benefits: Accommodation, meals, activities, volunteer hours, letter of recommendation, life-changing experience.

Overview:
Camp Silver Lining is looking for a compassionate and skilled Child’s Art Therapist Volunteer to provide therapeutic support through creative expression for children aged 6-12. As an Art Therapist, you will use art as a tool to help children process emotions, enhance self-esteem, and promote personal growth in a safe and nurturing environment.

Important Medical Notice:
Camp can be physically tiring, even exhausting. The facility or activities may require volunteers to manage uneven terrain, be at a high altitude, require hiking, climbing, running, swimming, lifting, stairs, and other strenuous activities depending on the volunteer position. Your medical condition (physical fitness, recent or chronic injuries, allergies, physical or emotional limitations, etc.) and even the medications you take may be affected by the activities, the foods served, the emotional challenges with campers, or the sleeping conditions. Note: Volunteers who stay in the sleeping quarters with campers are not permitted to have medications in those quarters. Medications must be kept in other secure locations as designated by Camp Leadership.

Responsibilities:
• Therapeutic Art Sessions: Lead group art therapy sessions, providing a safe space for children to express themselves creatively and work through emotions. All one-on-one therapy sessions will be conducted in an open or shared space with another staff member present, in line with Camp Silver Lining’s safeguarding policies.
• Individual Support: Assess and support children who may be experiencing emotional or behavioral challenges, using art as a tool for communication and healing. 
• Program Collaboration: Work closely with Camp Leadership and volunteer staff to plan appropriate art projects and crafts applicable to campers of multiple ages.
• Emotional Support: Provide a supportive, non-judgmental environment where children feel safe to explore their feelings through art.
• Creative Activities: Facilitate various art activities such as drawing, painting, collage, art journaling, and other creative outlets that align with therapeutic goals. 
• Behavioral Monitoring: Observe and document any significant changes in children’s behavior or emotional state, reporting findings to camp leadership when necessary.
• Confidentiality: Ensure the confidentiality of all therapeutic sessions, respecting the privacy and trust of campers and their families. 
• Modeling Positive Behaviors: Lead by example, demonstrating emotional maturity, respect, and professionalism in all interactions with campers and staff.

Qualifications:
• Completed degree in Art Therapy or returning student in a psychology program required
• Experience working with children, particularly those with emotional or behavioral challenges
• Knowledge of therapeutic techniques and how to apply them in creative settings
• Strong communication skills and ability to build rapport with children
• Ability to work as part of a multidisciplinary team
• Empathy, patience, and a nurturing attitude
• Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Check required (organization provided)
• Two character references (excluding family members)
• One professional reference from a current or former employer, or a professor, who can speak to your qualifications, work ethic, and character relevant to the role, particularly in working with children or in therapeutic settings

Please apply at: https://www.campsilverliningokanagan.org/forms