SUBMITTED BY HARRISON COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION

 

For decades, Harrison County Parks and Recreation has offered a Summer Park Program at various sites throughout the school break giving kids a safe and fun experience. And Director Mike Book anticipates another great program this year, but as he explains, the program will need a little help in the process.

 

“At one time, we would get hundreds of applications for these positions and today is definitely a challenge as we are lucky to hit the century mark. The demand for these jobs just are not what they used to be and we have to be more creative in finding ways to recruit. We always seem to fill positions at all locations, but it gets harder and harder each year.”

 

Besides Social Media Networks, advertising and word of mouth, retention has been the one of the best marketing strategies for filling staff. With a mark around 70 percent, knowing that you have those returning gives peace of mind. Also, they are a great resource for recruiting new staff.

 

In the past, our staff consisted of high school, college and even teachers on summer break as the wages have increased through the years allowing staff leaders to earn as much as $13.00 an hour. While the wages fluctuate from $9.00 per hour to $13.00 an hour based on experience and longevity, filling the rosters for the entire summer are a struggle at times as Deputy Director Doug Comer said.

 

“Commitment to the entire program can be tough especially with all the new practice policies for high school sports. Thirty hours a week is the standard work schedule and most high school kids will miss time because of their obligations with sports or other activities. Add in summer vacations and before you know it, the program is over and you have may have worked less than 100 hours," said Comer.

 

Details about the position include overseeing groups of kids from six-to-15 years of age at various sites in the county. Those hired will be responsible for registration, signing in and out and ensuring the safety of the kids. And, most importantly, have fun with the kids.

 

“Our goal is to make sure the kids have a great summer. We ensure a safe and fun atmosphere during the break and the working families rely on the program as daycare can be expensive. And, let’s face it, because the county is almost all free or reduced lunch, nutrition is important and we provide a breakfast and lunch on site. The food provided is through a grant with the Board of Education,” said Book.

 

Both former and new people can apply today by stopping at the office and getting an application or applying online at www.hcparks.org. For questions or additional information they can contact the office at 304-423-7800 and we will email one to you as soon as possible.

 

The program will start June 21 and carry on for six weeks. Sites include North View Park, Big Elm Elementary, Compton Park in Bridgeport, West Milford Elementary, Summit Park Complex, Nutter Fort Elementary as well as the Recreation Complex located on Rt.19 south across from Sunny Croft Golf Course.