After School Counselor - YMCA of Glendale

job description

Job Title: Afterschool Counselor                                  Leadership Level: Counselor

Reports to: Youth and Family Director                         

POSITION SUMMARY: Help lead a group of elementary aged in meaningful, safe activities that allow for personal growth and provide for the best possible experience. This position is focused on nurturing the potential of youth using a variety of tools including the Y voice and core values. Implement activities that align with the Developmental Assets. Responsible for implementing all aspects of program activities with the assigned class.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

·         Under the direction of the Youth and Family Director Staff will coordinate and implement both structured and unstructured programming to engage 5-12-year-old youths and provide opportunities for youth/teens to succeed, develop leadership skills, and foster healthy growth. 

·         Provide opportunities for youth/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.

·         Oversee and support students with homework assistance and provide academic and enrichment/recreational activities to clusters of 15-20 children.

·         Attend staff meetings and training as scheduled and required. Support Leaders/Directors in implementation of meetings and training.

·         Adheres to YMCA program standards regarding safety and risk management.

·         Act as representative of the YMCA of the Glendale 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 Glendale.

·         Record and maintain daily attendance and other documentation as required in a timely manner.

·         Ensure that classroom and program spaces are clean, organized and safe.

·         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.

SAFETY & RISK MANAGEMENT:

• Adheres to all safety policies, rules and standard operating procedures established by the YMCA.
• Inspects, corrects and maintains the work station/environment to ensure it is free from hazards or unsafe conditions.
• Reports all injuries and accidents, no matter how minor, immediately to the appropriate supervisor.
• Immediately reports all observed unsafe acts and conditions to the supervisor.
• Always reports to work in an acceptable condition, not under the influence of any substance that could inhibit the ability to work safety or efficiently.

YOUTH PROTECTION STATEMENT: The YMCA of Glendale is committed to the development, health and well-being of children and youth in our care. Any form of physical, mental, emotional or sexual abuse will not be tolerated. We have instituted policies, procedures, training and supervision requirements to create an organizational culture focused on the protection of all children and youth involved in YMCA programs and activities. For more information about our Child Abuse Prevention Policy please contact your Program Director.

YMCA COMPETENCIES (Leader):

Mission Advancement: Accepts and demonstrates the Ys 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 required to perform well; uses best practices and demonstrates up-to-date knowledge and skills in technology.

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. High school graduate or equivalent; one year or more of college preferred.

2. Previous experience working with children preferably in an afterschool or day camp setting

3. Experience preferred in one or more of the following areas: homework help, arts & crafts, sports, recreational games, etc…

4. At least 18 years of age (The age minimum may be higher depending on state law and YMCA policies.)

5. CPR, First Aid, AED certifications and Child Abuse Prevention training within 30 days of hire date.

6. Previous experience with diverse populations preferred.

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Ability to plan, lead and participate in a range of activities in a variety of outdoor/indoor settings.