Group Leader

The Opportunity

El Puente is seeking an energetic, compassionate, and community-centered Cornerstone Group Leader who believes in the power of young people and the importance of creating spaces where they can learn, grow, and thrive.

This is an opportunity to play a meaningful role in the daily lives of children and families by helping to create a safe, structured, and joyful after-school environment. The Cornerstone Group Leader will serve as a mentor, facilitator, and trusted adult for youth in grades K–8, supporting their academic growth, social-emotional development, and leadership potential.

Working closely with the Program Director, Assistant Program Director, and fellow team members, this role will help bring El Puente’s mission to life by fostering community, creativity, and belonging. The Group Leader will contribute to an environment where young people feel seen, supported, and empowered to explore their strengths and build confidence in themselves and their communities.

About El Puente

Founded in 1982, El Puente is a youth-centered human rights organization rooted in Brooklyn, New York and Puerto Rico, using the arts, education, and environmental justice as tools to inspire and nurture leadership for peace and justice.

For over four decades, El Puente has been building community-led movements grounded in self-determination, where young people, families, and communities are not only participants, but leaders shaping the future of their neighborhoods and beyond. Through a holistic leadership and membership model, the organization creates spaces where culture, identity, and activism intersect.

El Puente’s work spans Youth Leadership Centers across Brooklyn, a nationally recognized public high school, environmental justice initiatives, and organizing efforts that place community voice at the center of change. From local neighborhoods to global conversations, the organization continues to stand at the forefront of movements for equity, climate justice, and human rights.

At its core, El Puente is deeply relational, intergenerational, and community-rooted. The work is dynamic and responsive, grounded in the lived experiences of the communities it serves. As a staff member, the Cornerstone Group Leader is expected to uphold and embody the mission, philosophy, and principles of the organization.

The Role

The Cornerstone Group Leader will help create an engaging and supportive after-school and summer environment where young people feel safe, connected, and inspired to learn.

Reporting to the Program Director and Assistant Program Director, this role is responsible for guiding a consistent cohort of youth through academic support, enrichment activities, recreation, and daily routines. The Group Leader will foster positive relationships, maintain structure and accountability, and help ensure that each participant has a meaningful and enjoyable experience.

This is both a hands-on and relational role, ideal for someone who is organized, adaptable, and passionate about youth development. Successful candidates will bring energy, creativity, and a strong belief in the leadership potential of young people.

Key Responsibilities

Youth Development and Program Facilitation

• Build meaningful relationships with a consistent cohort of youth in grades K–8.
• Support participants’ academic, social-emotional, and leadership development.
• Design and facilitate engaging, age-appropriate lesson plans and enrichment activities.
• Provide homework assistance and encourage academic confidence.
• Lead recreational activities that promote teamwork, creativity, and fun.
• Foster a structured and positive group environment rooted in respect and belonging.

Daily Operations and Participant Safety

• Safely escort participants from local schools to the program site.
• Manage snack distribution, activity transitions, and dismissal procedures.

Team Collaboration

• Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and collaborative planning sessions.
• Contribute ideas and reflections to strengthen program quality and impact.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues to create a cohesive and supportive team environment.

Key Qualifications

Successful candidates will bring a strong commitment to youth development, community-building, and social justice, along with the ability to create meaningful and engaging experiences for young people.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Ability to successfully complete background checks and fingerprinting in accordance with applicable agency requirements.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in after-school programs, schools, or youth development settings.
• Knowledge of youth development principles and academic standards.
• Strong organizational and classroom management skills.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building abilities.
• Creativity, adaptability, and a positive attitude.
• Bilingual English/Spanish proficiency is a plus.
• Demonstrated connection to El Puente’s mission and values.

Location, Salary and Benefits

This position is based in the Williamsburg neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York.

This is a part-time position, generally scheduled Monday through Friday from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM, with occasional adjustments based on program needs. The role transitions to full-time hours during the summer.

Compensation for this position is $18.54 per hour.

El Puente offers a collaborative, mission-driven work environment where staff are encouraged to grow professionally while contributing to meaningful work with young people and communities.

El Puente is an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace that reflects the communities it serves. We strongly encourage applications from women, people of color, DREAMers, and members of the LGBTQIA community.

If you are excited about supporting young people, building community, and contributing to justice-centered youth development, we encourage you to apply.

Salary : $19