Activity Specialist: Cross Country (West Side YMCA)

About the role

The West Side YMCA is seeking an Activity Specialist who will play a critical role in providing academic enhancement and enrichment in the Y Afterschool program, including Holiday Camps. The Activity Specialist will be responsible for providing a safe and positive environment for school-age children and for providing opportunities for learning, interaction, and academic or personal growth. Specifically, the Activity Specialist will prepare and deliver age-appropriate cross country instruction for all grades in the Y Afterschool program.

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 and special events that are age-appropriate, exciting, challenging, and value-based.
• Teach participants the fundamentals of cross country, including activities that build their level of skill and confidence.
• Coordinate and present a culminating performance at the end of the program cycle, if applicable.
• Work cooperatively with Afterschool Counselors, professional staff, teachers, and other 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.
• Maintain accurate program documentation (sign-in/sign-out forms, attendance sheets, behavior reports, and incident reports, as appropriate).
• Serve as a positive role model for participants.
• Work with the Site Director to secure and maintain all equipment or supplies needed for the program activities.
• 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/guardians and caregivers through regular communication about their child’s strengths and areas for growth.
• Prepare the learning environment, lessons, and necessary supplies for the program activities.
• 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.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• College credits preferred.
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience working with youth, specifically working with children and planning cross country activities.
• Formal certification in cross country required.

Skills

• General knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Strong interpersonal skills, leadership qualities, and comfortable working with diverse youth and adults.

Benefits

• Retirement benefits
• Medical
• Paid time off
• Free YMCA membership

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.