The Youth Counselor is responsible for the daily supervision of participants grades K-8. S/he is responsible for assisting in the planning, development, and implementation of all 9 program components and program activities in the after-school program.  The Counselor guides the academic and social development of children; ensuring a safe, enriching, and healthy learning environment.  Youth Counselors use a variety of resources, provided by the After-School Site Director to introduce new skills throughout the execution of activities. To accomplish this, Youth Counselors are required to participate in ongoing professional development and planning sessions with the After-School Site Director on a scheduled basis.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The Youth Counselor must have the competencies, skills, and proven leadership ability to successfully carry out the YMCA mission, goals, and visions for serving the community.  The Group Leader will be responsible for the following:  

1. Ensures the safety and engagement of children in assigned group.
2. Demonstrates competency with DHR assessment tool and is fully training.
3. Plans and use the S.A.F.E. framework to facilitate purposeful and engaging activities and group projects that compliments the program’s thematic or project-based agenda.
4. Provide assistance with homework and encourage academic progress.
5. Follows program lesson plans and implementation plan in a developmentally appropriate manner, meeting the individual physical, social, emotional, and intellectual needs of the participants.
6. Provides careful, attentive supervision, alert at all times.
7. Serves as a positive role model, demonstrates professional behavior and understand positive youth development approaches to the academic and social development of youth.
8. Facilitates a program environment that invites exploration, promotes positive play, and welcomes children.
9. Promotes a team concept through a positive approach to supervision, communication, and interactions with others.  Maintains on-going communication with supervisor.
10. Maintain accurate classroom records as assigned and according to program requirements.
11. Communicates regularly with parents; attends parent/family events as designated by supervisor.
12. Demonstrates a working knowledge of YMCA mission, purpose and goals, childcare policies and YMCA standards; ensures the program meets the highest standards of excellence.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS

1. Must be at least 18 years of age or older.
2. High School Diploma or equivalent. Bachelors preferred.
3. A minimum of two years’ prior experience working with children under 13 years of age required.
4. Exceptional group management, problem-solving and conflict resolution skills.
5. Experience in creating interactive and educational/artistic activities, youth development, academic enrichment and arts.
6. Must possess oral, auditory and written communication skills appropriate for interacting with both children and adults.
7. Must be capable of implementing the daily administrative, program related, and supervisory responsibilities of an after-school site.
8. Flexibility, with the ability to adapt to changing circumstances.

Salary : $10 - $12