Lead and guide a group of youth and teens in meaningful, safe programs and activities that allow for personal growth and provide for the best possible experience. This position is focused on nurturing the potential of youth and teen using a variety of tools including the Y voice and core values.
· Minimum one (1) year of experience working or participating in a youth group/program setting. YMCA program participation preferred.
· HS Diploma or GED Equivalent required. Associate degree in a related field or 1-2 years of college completion in a related field preferred; equivalent work experience will be considered.
· Minimum 18 years of age.
· Proven ability to coordinate, implement, and/or lead enrichment/recreational activities.
· Knowledge of youth development practices and conflict mediation.
· Energetic, youth-friendly, and creative person with a high level of enthusiasm about providing meaningful opportunities and activities for youth.
· Proven ability to work effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions and perceptions.
· Possess imagination, a sense of humor, patience, conviction, sincerity, enthusiasm, initiative, self-control, adaptability, willingness to learn, integrity and ingenuity.
· Must possess the four essential characteristics for dealing with the growth of youth into adulthood: good health, intelligence, moral character, and personality.
· Ability to follow and accept instruction and relate well with peers.
· Familiarity working with schools and community-based agencies preferred.
· Must be able to model the core values, Caring, Respect, Responsibility and Honesty.
· Must have commitment to the mission and cause of the YMCA and uphold its values and ethics.
· Must have clearance through fingerprinting, drug testing, criminal records, and child abuse index check.
· Ability to plan, lead and participate in a range of activities in a variety of outdoor/indoor settings.
· Ability to care for up to 15 youths and can handle the tension, and exasperation
· Ability to stand for long period of time
· Ability to walk/run for long periods of time
· Ability to lift up to 50 lbs from the floor to waist high ten to fifteen times a day
· Ability to crouch to youth’s height and maintain eye contact at youth’s level; to sit on the floor; to stand tall enough to reach youth on play equipment; to stand or sit for long periods of time; to walk up and down stairs.
· Under the direction of the Director of Programs, the Summer Camp Counselor will coordinate and implement both structured and unstructured programming to engage 5-17-year-old youths and provide opportunities for youth and teens to succeed, develop leadership skills, and foster healthy growth.
· Provide opportunities for youth and teens to develop & strengthen academic, physical, and social skills.
· Connect youth with caring adults, consciously engage non-engaged program participants and be impactful leaders to our youth.
· Provide clear leadership to youth and teen participants/members by consistently supervising activities, confidently identifying boundaries, communicating rules and educating and supporting youth on acceptable behavior.
· Attend staff meetings and trainings as scheduled and required. Support Leaders/Directors in implementation of meetings and trainings.
· Adheres to YMCA program standards regarding safety and risk management.
· Act as representative of the YMCA of the Foothills at all times. Conveys information on programs and schedules and refers members to other programs as appropriate. Articulate the mission, cause and rally cry of the YMCA of the Foothills.
· Supports other Y staff and volunteers by building strong relationships using Y tools, such as Listen First, in all interactions.
· Conveys information on the YMCA of the Foothills' charitable initiatives.
· Builds strong relationships and rapport with members and helps them connect with each other and the YMCA. Encourages member involvement and identifies potential volunteers.
· Follows YMCA policies and procedures, including those related to medical and disciplinary situations, child abuse prevention, emergencies, dress guidelines and cleanliness standards.
· Other duties as assigned.
Mission Advancement: Accepts and demonstrates the Y’s values. Demonstrates a desire to serve others and fulfill community needs. Recruits volunteers and builds effective, supportive working relationships with them. Supports fund-raising.
Collaboration: Works effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions, and perceptions. Builds rapport and relates well to others. Seeks first to understand the other person’s point of view, and remains calm in challenging situations. Listens for understanding and meaning; speaks and writes effectively. Takes initiative to assist in developing others.
Operational Effectiveness: Makes sound judgments, and transfers learning from one situation to another. Embraces new approaches and discovers ideas to create a better member experience. Establishes goals, clarifies tasks, plans work and actively participates in meetings. Follows budgeting policies and procedures, and reports all financial irregularities immediately. Strives to meet or exceed goals and deliver a high-value experience for members.
Personal Growth: Pursues self-development that enhances job performance. Demonstrates an openness to change, and seeks opportunities in the change process. Accurately assesses personal feelings, strengths and limitations and how they impact relationships. Has the functional and technical knowledge and skills required to perform well; uses best practices and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology.
· CPR, First Aid, AED certifications and Child Abuse Prevention training within 30 days of hire date unless otherwise stated below.