Group Leader III (GAINS)(15-20 HRS/WK)

About the Role

The Group Leader III serves in a support role to the Corps Officers, under the direct supervision of the Program Directors. They are intimately involved in the daily operations of the School-Age Child Care program and the carrying out of its mission. The Group Leader III may be assigned to a designated group of children and/or a specialized activity, as determined by the Program Directors. They provide support to the Program Directors and may assist with groups or activities under the leadership of another Group Leader. The role requires preparedness, experience, and qualifications to assume greater leadership responsibility when necessary. The ideal candidate remains teachable and interested in ongoing professional development.

Responsibilities

• Involvement in the total program with willingness to help in all areas as needed, including dining room, outdoor/indoor activities, children with problems, and daily assembly.
• Promote observance of the moral and ethical code affecting children and staff.
• Complete Orientation Sessions and attend all parent meetings.
• Attend and contribute to Program Leadership Meetings.
• Help plan and conduct General Staff Meetings.
• Share with the Program Director and/or Corps Officers all matters of mutual concern relating to the total welfare of the GAINS Program.
• Assist the Program Director in advancing the mission of The Salvation Army GAINS Program.
• Complete a Debrief at the end of the school year and summer camp session, including areas of concern for the following program year.
• Provide leadership and guidance to assigned children and staff.
• Assume responsibility for the health, cleanliness, good habits, welfare, and happiness of all children and staff, especially those under direct supervision.
• Maintain a high level of interaction with children and staff; contribute constructively to the health, harmony, and happiness of the program.
• Coordinate daily assembly, as assigned by the Program Director.
• Voice criticisms to the Program Directors first and respond positively to their directives.
• Communicate with the Program Director privately and promptly regarding staff actions that put the health and safety of children at risk; report all incidents, minor or major.
• Communicate and work with groups of various ages and skill levels, providing necessary instruction to children and/or staff.
• Identify and physically respond appropriately and quickly to emergency situations.

Activity Leadership Responsibilities (if assigned)

• Organize and administer assigned activities for children ages 5–13.
• Assume responsibility for all assigned areas, proper use of supplies, maintenance of inventory, and requesting additional supplies as needed.
• Coordinate programs with other activities and plans; offer assistance and support as needed.
• Submit lesson plans for assigned classes to the program office.
• Organize, direct, and instruct assigned activity programs tailored to all ages, interests, and abilities of participants.
• Display creativity and innovation in programming.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent (experience may substitute for diploma, as permitted by State regulations).
• At least 6 months of experience in youth or camp programming, with the ability to teach and enthuse others.
• Interest in leadership with peers or leadership of organized programming.
• Current CPR and First Aid Certifications.

Schedule

Available to work part-time hours on school days and full-time hours on non-school days (school holidays and summer).