By Nicole Hall
Scarborough Community Services has seen its fair share of camp counselors through the years. While any job involving children can has its challenges, it can also be a rewarding, enjoyable, and flexible option for students as well as retirees. Every now and then, a counselor comes along and we just know they are going to make a lasting impact. Madison is one of those outstanding employees.
Can you introduce yourself?
My name is Madison Collinsworth. I graduated from Scarborough High School in 2024 and am now a freshman at Plymouth State University. I am studying Elementary Education and Youth Development with a plan to become a first-grade teacher.
I started with Scarborough Community Services in February of 2021 as an after-school counselor and I haven’t left! All through high school, I was a counselor during the school year and transitioned right into summer camp, which quickly became my favorite time of the year. This upcoming summer will be my fourth working here and I am so looking forward to it!
What inspired you to apply for the job?
I knew I enjoyed children and working with others. With this job I have realized I have a passion for working with children, creating relationships with others, and creating a safe and happy place for them to confide in.
What does a typical day look like as a camp counselor?
A typical day is busy and fast paced. You are creating plans and activities for children, playing and interacting with your group, taking children on bathroom trips, assisting at lunchtime, taking them outside, playing an active game in the gym, or even just relaxing as a group. There are also offsite days with fun field trips. Every day is different and you never know what the day will hold, but you do know you will have fun!
What skills most contribute to your effectiveness in this job?
Being able to communicate with children, families, coworkers, or even your supervisors is extremely important. While working at this job my communication skills have improved tremendously, as I am expected to communicate all day long.
Can you share a memorable experience you’ve had working here?
One thing I cherish is the artwork that the children give to me. It could be a scribble or a detailed painting, but I keep every single item. I had one particular child over the course of the school year and summer who ended up sending me a letter at college! Seeing the impact I made on this child’s life brings me so much joy. The children make me feel loved, and I hope I do the same for them.
How do you feel your work has impacted the community?
I have given the parents comfort and relief when leaving their children for the day. They know that their child will be safe and loved all day long. I have also given the children a positive and exciting place to come to every single day. The children have comfort and security knowing that they have a counselor that is looking out for them.
How has being a counselor enriched your life?
This job made me realize what I wanted to do for the rest of my life, which is working with children. The relationships and positive impacts I have had on so many different children and families is so fulfilling. At first I looked at this job as something I would do until I went to college and got my degree, but now I look at it as my career. The job made me realize my life calling and what I was made to do.
What advice would you give to others considering working as a counselor?
I would tell them to go for it! This job has opened so many doorways to my future career and made me realize who I really am. Ask as many questions as you can of your co-counselors and your supervisors. Everyone is more than happy to help, share, and collaborate. Overall, working for the Town of Scarborough is more than just a job, it is a community experience.
Scarborough Community Services is currently hiring several part-time and seasonal positions, including Child Care and Summer Camp Counselors and personnel. For more information, or to apply, please visit the Human Resources page at http://www.scarboroughmaine.org.
You don’t have to be an expert to be a coach, assistant coach, or volunteer! Community Services staff will provide training, ideas, and support along the way. If you are interested in volunteering or helping out during special events, please contact Community Services at 207-730-4150 or comserv@scarboroughmaine.org.
Nicole Hall is Scarborough Community Services’ Operation and Events Manager.
