Thank you for your interest in joining the Camp ASCEND team! 

Camp ASCEND is a trauma-informed, disability-affirming summer program designed for children who are often excluded from traditional camp experiences. We center nervous-system safety, authentic connection, and individualized support, recognizing that every child rises differently. Our team is committed to meeting children where they are, honoring neurodiversity and disability, and fostering belonging, growth, and joy in a relationship-centered environment.

Required Uploads

Please upload the following documents:

• Resume
• Cover Letter (brief is fine)
• Current Background Check (if already obtained) OR Check the box below to consent to obtain one

Background Check & Sex Offender Registry Consent
As a condition of employment, all Camp ASCEND staff, contractors, and volunteers consent to a comprehensive background check, which may include a criminal history check, sex offender registry check, and any additional screenings required by law, licensing agencies, or Camp ASCEND policy.

By accepting employment and/or continuing service with Camp ASCEND, staff authorize Camp ASCEND to obtain and review such background information at the time of hire and, when required, periodically thereafter. Employment is contingent upon the successful completion and clearance of all required checks.

Camp ASCEND is committed to equity, inclusion, and the inherent dignity of every child, family, and staff member. We are a disability-affirming, trauma-informed environment that recognizes systemic inequities and the impact of trauma, oppression, and exclusion on individuals and communities.

Camp ASCEND actively seeks to create a space where children of all abilities, races, cultures, family structures, gender identities, neurotypes, and backgrounds are welcomed and supported. We do not view disability or neurodivergence as deficits to be fixed, but as differences to be understood, accommodated, and honored.

As a staff member, you are expected to:

• Approach all children and families with respect, curiosity, and humility
• Use inclusive, strengths-based, and person-affirming language
• Reflect on your own biases and remain open to growth and feedback
• Support accommodations and regulation needs without shame or punishment
• Uphold our commitment to safety, dignity, and belonging for all

Camper safety is a top priority. The camp maintains the following safety practices:

• Staff are trained in trauma-informed, regulation-focused, and relationship-centered care.
• Senior staff are CPI (Crisis Prevention Institute) trained.
• Appropriate supervision ratios are maintained at all times.
• Safety plans, behavior supports, or medical needs must be disclosed during registration to ensure appropriate care.
• Physical restraint is used only when absolutely necessary to prevent imminent harm and only by trained staff, in accordance with CPI guidelines.
• Emergency procedures are in place for medical incidents, severe weather, and other emergencies.

Visitors and Volunteers:

• All visitors must check in with camp leadership upon arrival.
• Volunteers may be utilized to support camp programming and must follow all camp policies and staff direction.
• Volunteers and visitors may not be left alone with campers unless they have completed required screening and approval processes.
• Camp leadership reserves the right to deny or revoke visitor or volunteer access at any time to ensure camper safety.

All staff are expected to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, safety, and care in alignment with the Camp ASCEND mission. This Code of Conduct applies to all staff, contractors, and volunteers.

1. Child Safety & Supervision

• Maintain active supervision of campers at all times
• Follow assigned ratios, schedules, and supervision plans
• Never leave a child or group unattended
• Immediately report safety concerns, injuries, or incidents to a supervisor

2. Trauma-Informed & Disability-Affirming Practice

• Respond to behavior as communication, not defiance
• Use regulation-focused, non-punitive strategies
• Honor accommodations, sensory needs, and access requirements
• Avoid shaming, coercion, threats, or power-based responses

3. Respectful Communication

• Use inclusive, strengths-based, and respectful language
• Speak to children at eye level, calmly, and with dignity
• Avoid sarcasm, yelling, labeling, or humiliating language
• Maintain professionalism with families, coworkers, and partners

4. Boundaries & Appropriate Touch

• Maintain clear, appropriate physical and emotional boundaries
• Use supportive touch only when necessary for safety or regulation and in accordance with training
• Never use physical force except as permitted by training and policy
• One-on-one interactions must remain observable and appropriate

5. Equity, Inclusion & Anti-Discrimination

• Treat all individuals with fairness and respect
• Do not discriminate based on disability, race, ethnicity, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, family structure, or background
• Address bias, exclusion, or harm when observed and report concerns

6. Confidentiality & Mandated Reporting

• Protect the confidentiality of campers and families
• Share information only with appropriate staff and supervisors
• Follow all mandated reporting laws and camp procedures
• Report suspected abuse or neglect immediately

7. Professional Conduct

• Arrive on time, prepared, and fit for duty
• Follow dress code and safety guidelines
• Refrain from substance use during camp hours or on camp property
• Use personal devices only as permitted by policy

8. Social Media & Photography

• Do not post photos or identifying information of campers
• Follow camp policies regarding media, privacy, and consent
• Maintain professional boundaries online and offline

9. Accountability

• Accept feedback with openness and professionalism
• Seek support when unsure or overwhelmed
• Understand that violations of this Code may result in corrective action or dismissal