Seasonal Associate

Company Description

The Youth Development Center (The YDC) is a nonprofit organization in downtown Winchester dedicated to providing safe and enriching opportunities for children and families. Focused on engaging, motivating, and activating youth, the YDC offers seasonal and year-round programs that encourage learning, creativity, and personal growth. Programs such as Winterfest, Summerfest, ReadStart, the Art Series, and STEM/STEAM Stars are tailored to support children and teens with hands-on experiences and skill-building. Committed to equity, the YDC ensures affordability and offers scholarships so cost does not limit participation. Through strong community partnerships, the YDC creates programs that meet the needs of local families, fostering a sense of belonging and hope for the future.

• $14.50 per hour, based on experience and qualifications

• Monday-Friday
• Approximately 30 hours per week
• Typical hours: 7:15 AM -12:30 PM or 12:30 PM - 6:15 PM

The YDC is seeking energetic Summerfest counselors to join our team for the 2026 summer season. Counselors play a key role in creating a safe, fun, and enriching camp environment for youth. This position is ideal for individuals who enjoy working with children, leading activities, and serving as positive role models. 

• Supervise and engage campers throughout daily activities
• Plan, lead, and participate in recreational, educational, and enrichment activities
• Ensure the safety and well-being of all campers at all times
• Promote positive behavior, teamwork, and inclusion
• Build supportive relationships with campers and fellow staff
• Follow YDC policies, procedures, and camp schedules
• Communicate effectively with supervisors, staff, and campers
• Assist with setup, cleanup, and general camp operations

• Must be at least 16 years and 6 months of age
• Experience working with children or youth preferred
• Strong interpersonal skills and a proactive approach to fostering positive relationships.
• Ability to maintain a positive attitude in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to manage inventory and handle program materials efficiently.
• Effective communication skills, both verbal and written, to engage with participants, families, board members, community members, and team members.
• Organizational skills and a flexible mindset to adapt to a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
• Dependable, responsible, and punctual
• Experience working with children and families is a plus but not required.
• CPR/First Aid certification preferred (or willingness to obtain)

• Ability to actively participate in outdoor and indoor activities
• Ability to stand, walk, and supervise children for extended periods 
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds

Role Description

This is a part-time, on-site Seasonal Associate role based in Winchester, VA. As a Seasonal Associate, you will assist in the implementation of the organization’s seasonal programs, engage with youth and families, and provide excellent family-focused service during events and activities. Responsibilities include maintaining inventory, overseeing program materials, and ensuring all participants have a safe and positive experience. Additional duties include collaborating with team members to create a welcoming environment and supporting program operations with day-to-day tasks as needed.