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Article by Elena Ferrarin
Communications Coordinator
Northbrook Park District
After having attended Northbrook Park District camps as a child, Zayd Khan decided to try out working there as a counselor at the suggestion of his father, who’d done that in his own youth.
Now going into his 3rd year as counselor for the before-and-after school program Adventure Campus, Zayd said it’s been a great experience, from both a social and educational perspective.
“You get to meet people your age and you learn a lot from all the experienced people (supervising),” he said. “Being around people and kids, and having fun the whole time, it almost doesn’t feel like a job.”
The park district is currently hiring for the next Adventure Campus session, which offers supervised activities for children in kindergarten through 5th grade from late August to early June.
The program takes place 7-9 am and 2:30-6 pm Monday through Friday at five elementary schools serving Northbrook residents: Hickory Point, Shabonee and Wescott in Northbrook, and Willowbrook and Winkelman in Glenview. Daily activities include homework, gym and outside play, arts and crafts and board games, all designed for children to learn, gain self-confidence and make new friends.
Starting pay is $15 to $20 per hour and benefits include parks and recreation perks, such as a free pool pass, free gym membership, golf play and more.
New hires are eligible for $700 in bonus pay if they can begin work at 2:30 pm, work five days a week and apply before July 9. The bonus pay would be split into three payments: $175 in September, $175 in January and $350 in June, provided the employee is currently employed and in good standing at the scheduled payout dates.
People of all ages and backgrounds are encouraged to apply to work as counselors, who range from teenagers to older adults, Recreation Supervisor Mary Mucci said. Applicants don’t need prior experience but should demonstrate a genuine interest in working with children.
“Working for Adventure Campus is an extremely rewarding job; our staff serve as positive role models to so many,” Mucci said. “This position is a great fit for anyone who is interested in working with children, making a positive impact, and having their weekends free!”
Adventure Campus counselor A.J. Pintz said working there is a great way to supplement his salary as educational assistant at a local middle school.
“Spending time with the kids and helping them (grow) is very good experience,” he said. “I like the pay, I enjoy the people, and I enjoy the work. It helps improve the kids, and it helps improve yourself.”
Counselors are required to attend a paid three-day training August 13-16 from 3pm-6pm. The training features topics including behavior management, games and activities, first aid, safety drills and more. During the school year, there will be monthly all-staff trainings to review topics and prepare for upcoming activities.
Adventure Campus also offers programs during school holidays and breaks; counselors have the option to work additional days if they want to. For more information, visit nbparks.co/adventure or call (847) 291-2995.