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- Tasks: Lead fun activities and support kids' growth in a safe, engaging environment.
- Company: Join the YMCA of Greater New York, empowering communities since 1852.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, free YMCA membership, medical benefits, and paid time off.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on youth while developing your leadership skills in a supportive culture.
- Qualifications: High school diploma required; experience with youth and basic computer skills preferred.
- Other info: Work hours are Monday to Friday, 2:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
The YMCA of Greater New York is here for all New Yorkers to empower youth, improve health, and strengthen community. Founded in 1852, today the Y serves a diverse population of more than half a million New Yorkers who learn, grow, and thrive through programs and services at our 24 branches. Community is the cornerstone of the Y. Together, we connect active, engaged New Yorkers to build stronger communities.
To help fulfill our mission, we cultivate a culture of learning, leading, and collaboration to enhance community impact. Through our talented staff and "LEAP" career framework (Leadership, Empowerment, Accountability, Personal Growth), we are committed to a people-first approach that fosters trust, inclusion, growth, and development for all.
The Bedford-Stuyvesant YMCA is seeking Afterschool Senior Counselors. Under the supervision of the Site Director, the Afterschool Senior Counselor will play a critical role in the successful operation of the Y Afterschool program, including Holiday Camps. They will be responsible for providing a safe and positive environment for school-age children, providing opportunities for learning, interaction, and academic/personal growth.
Y Afterschool programs operate Monday through Friday from 2:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and during public school breaks.
Key Responsibilities:- Ensure the health, safety, and well-being of participants in the program by providing appropriate supervision at all times.
- Plan and implement meaningful activities, lesson plans, and special events that are age-appropriate, exciting, challenging, and values-based in arts, STEM, character development/SEL, creative expression, community service, physical fitness, and nutrition.
- Prepare the learning environment, lessons, and necessary supplies for program activities.
- Support the coordination and presentation of a culminating performance at the end of the program cycle, if applicable.
- Provide support to Activity Specialists with activity implementation.
- Assist children with homework and academic enhancement activities.
- Work cooperatively with program and school staff.
- Promote an inclusive, welcoming, and respectful environment that embraces the diversity of all participants.
- Create and maintain a strength-based, youth-focused atmosphere that is consistent and sensitive to the needs of participants with learning, emotional, or behavioral differences.
- Serve as a positive role model for participants.
- Maintain accurate program documentation (sign-in/out forms, behavior reports, and incident reports, as appropriate).
- Understand and communicate the YMCA's core values and the goals of the Y Afterschool program to participants and caregivers.
- Develop and maintain positive relationships with parents and caregivers by regularly communicating about their child's strengths and areas for growth.
- Actively participate in training sessions, designated meetings, and special events.
- Adhere to all Department of Health, YMCA of Greater New York, and funder standards, expectations, and regulations.
- High school diploma or equivalent required; college credits preferred.
- Minimum of two (2) years of experience working with youth under the age of 13 in a group setting is required.
- General knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint required.
- Strong interpersonal skills, leadership qualities, and comfortable working with diverse youth and adults.
- Must be available to work Monday through Friday from 2:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
The YMCA of Greater New York offers a variety of benefits to its staff members, including retirement benefits, medical, paid time off, free YMCA membership, and more! Benefit eligibility is determined by an individual's employment status (i.e., full-time or part-time), tenure, and/or the number of hours scheduled to work.
How to apply:If you would like to be a member of our dynamic team, please complete our online application and submit your résumé and a thoughtful cover letter that explains your interest in the role and our organization. If you are a current YMCA employee, please submit your application through the Internal Career Site in Cornerstone.
Afterschool Senior Counselor employer: YMCA
Contact Detail:
YMCA Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Afterschool Senior Counselor
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the YMCA's core values and mission. Understanding their commitment to community and youth empowerment will help you align your responses during interviews and demonstrate your passion for their work.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any relevant experience you have working with children, especially in group settings. Be prepared to share specific examples of how you've created engaging activities or supported children's development in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills by discussing instances where you've taken initiative or led a project. The YMCA values strong leaders, so demonstrating your ability to guide and inspire others will set you apart.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss how you would create an inclusive environment for diverse groups of children. Think about strategies you've used in the past to ensure all participants feel welcomed and valued.
We think you need these skills to ace Afterschool Senior Counselor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and expectations of the Afterschool Senior Counselor position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experiences that align with the job description.
Craft a Thoughtful Cover Letter: Your cover letter should express your genuine interest in the role and the YMCA's mission. Discuss how your background and skills make you a great fit for the position, particularly in providing a safe and positive environment for children.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV, emphasise any previous experience working with youth, especially in group settings. Include specific examples of activities you've planned or implemented that demonstrate your ability to engage and support children.
Showcase Your Skills: Make sure to mention your interpersonal skills and leadership qualities in both your CV and cover letter. The YMCA values a diverse and inclusive environment, so highlight any experiences that showcase your ability to work with diverse groups.
How to prepare for a job interview at YMCA
✨Show Your Passion for Youth Development
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for working with children and youth. Share specific examples of how you've positively impacted young people's lives in previous roles, as this aligns with the YMCA's mission.
✨Demonstrate Your Planning Skills
Be prepared to discuss how you would plan and implement engaging activities for the afterschool programme. Highlight any past experiences where you successfully organised events or lesson plans that catered to diverse age groups.
✨Emphasise Inclusivity and Diversity
The YMCA values a welcoming environment. Be ready to talk about how you promote inclusivity and respect for diversity in your interactions with children and colleagues. Share any relevant experiences that showcase your commitment to these values.
✨Prepare Questions for the Interviewers
Have thoughtful questions ready to ask the interviewers about the YMCA's programmes and culture. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
