Description

 “YouthConnect Worcester Summer Program provides neighborhood-based recreational, educational and cultural activities to isolated and underserved Worcester middle school age youth in an effort to reduce youth violence. YouthConnect provides environments that reflect our participants, respect and celebrate our differences and embraces the richness of our diversity.”

Under the leadership of the designated YouthConnect Worcester Summer Program Leader, Leader Assistants are to assist with planning, implementation, and evaluation of all YouthConnect Worcester activities including, but not limited to the following: outreach, recruitment, and retention of Worcester’s middle school-aged youth and oversight of Staff/Adult/Youth Engagement in recreational facilities, including Adult to Youth, Youth to Youth, Staff to Staff, and Adult to Staff engagement. Candidate must be a supportive, willing, positive, and energetic participant in the implementation of the outcome measurement system.

 Responsibilities: 

1. Assist with the implementation of outreach efforts.
2. Support the design and implementation of evening recreational and educational activities.
3. Support the supervision of assigned YouthConnect Worcester Program Staff.
4. Participate and assist in implementation of training opportunities.
5. Create a safe supportive environment for all YouthConnect Worcester participants and staff.
6. Complete incident and accident reports as necessary.
7. Provide supportive services to youth in the program both individually and within the milieu setting.
8. Support the recording and collection of all data including: participant demographics, attendance, assessments, check lists, and scales.
9. Attend weekly leadership meetings to discuss program operations and citywide activities.
10. Other duties as assigned by the Program Leader and Summer Program Coordinator for the successful completion of program. 

Vehicle preferred but not necessary. Must at least be able to get to the YWCA.

Qualifications

1. Three years’ experience working with youth from culturally and ethnically diverse backgrounds.
2. Some college preferred, ideally in the areas of Child Development, Human Services, Psychology, Physical Education, Recreation, or another related field.
3. Strong knowledge of youth development and experience working with at risk youth in community based settings.
4. Experience working with youth from various socioeconomic backgrounds.
5. Demonstrated sensitivity to the needs of families and youth from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds.
6. Ability to establish trusting relationships through compassion, empathy, and insight.
7. Good listening skills with the ability to handle stressful situations.
8. Bilingual preferred.
9. Valid driver’s license and transportation necessary to conduct outreach activities.
10. Knowledge of American Sign Language helpful, but not required.
11. Must be deemed eligible according to state and or federal criteria for Summer Employment.
12. Preference will be given to applicants that can show participation in: Youth Worker Training Institute, Worcester Youth Work Alliance, First Aid & CPR, Youth Mental Health First Aid, Narcan Administration.