About Erika

Reviewed on 12/19/2014

I am pleased to submit a recommendation on behalf of Erika. Erika was a creative, energetic and important part of our summer team. She worked with the 5 and 6 year olds, yet had the remarkable ability to connect with children of all ages. Erika is kind-hearted and caring, and always helped the campers adjust to new surroundings. One of Erika's greatest strengths is to truly connect with people and enable them to feel heard and supported. She enjoyed working with small groups of children and getting to know each of their likes and interests. Erika was then able to use that knowledge to help the campers better enjoy their daily experiences in camp. Each group has a leadership team of 3 or 4 staff members. It is extremely important that they work together as a team to help one another and benefit the entire group. Erika has an exceptional ability to make others feel heard, and to encourage them to participate to their full potential. I was always impressed to watch how others listened to Erika and looked to her as a role model. She is a true team player. Each camp counselor is presented with the opportunity and challenge of working with both the campers and their parents. It is often difficult to navigate the differences in each of their relationships, but Erika did this with ease. Erika embraced each new situation, and approached it with a thoughtful, yet decisive manner. She was a pleasure to have on our staff, and a true role model to others. The camp leadership truly enjoys watching young staff members grow and continue their work in camp, and beyond at the JCC. We enjoyed having Erika in camp for a few summers, and seeing her at a variety of JCC programs throughout the school year. It is a true testament to her interest and ability in working with children, her tremendous work ethic, and her ability to work successfully with others.