Youth Development Counselor - GoForth - Perry

About the role

The YMCA is offering a temporary $3.00 per hour stipend for Youth Development Counselors working in Before/After School Programs serving Katy ISD, Conroe ISD, and Humble ISD. This stipend is separate from base pay and may be modified or discontinued based on organizational needs and funding. At the YMCA we’re more than a childcare provider; we’re a community dedicated to helping young people grow, learn, and thrive. Join a team that shapes the next generation, builds meaningful relationships with families and staff, and makes a real impact every day.

Responsibilities

• Champion safety & supervision: keep children safe, engaged, and accounted for; monitor activities, conduct headcounts, and respond confidently using YMCA policies and training.
• Guide positive behavior: foster a welcoming, inclusive environment with positive behavior‑management techniques that support social and emotional growth.
• Lead fun & meaningful activities: bring the YMCA curriculum to life through games, projects, and hands‑on learning, adapting to diverse needs and interests.
• Model YMCA values: demonstrate honesty, respect, responsibility, caring, and faith; serve as a role model for children.
• Support daily operations: help maintain a clean, organized, and safe program space meeting YMCA and state licensing standards.
• Build strong relationships: connect with children, families, school staff, and the YMCA team to create a positive, collaborative community.
• Protect youth: follow child‑protection policies, ensure proper sign‑in/out procedures, and maintain vigilant supervision of all program areas.

Requirements

• At least 18 years old.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Six months of experience working with youth in a licensed facility, school, church, or similar setting.
• CPR, First Aid, AED, and Child Abuse Prevention training (or willingness to obtain).
• Ability to plan and lead age‑appropriate activities.
• Experience working with diverse populations.
• Ability to pass state/local background checks and fingerprinting.
• TB test and any required immunizations per state/local guidelines.
• Physical & work environment: active, hands‑on role involving moving, playing, leading activities, occasional lifting up to 50 lbs; work indoors and outdoors, exposure to weather, noise, and the joyful chaos of youth programs; Day Camp roles may include hiking, swimming, and extended standing or walking.

Skills

• Clear, positive communication.
• Ability to engage groups of youth.
• Strong decision‑making and problem‑solving.
• Commitment to inclusion and cultural competence.
• Team‑oriented mindset.
• Desire to grow and help others grow.

Benefits

• Free YMCA Membership.
• Discounts on YMCA programs.
• Paid training and professional development.
• Leadership growth pathways within youth development and beyond.
• A supportive, mission‑driven team environment.
• Flexible schedules.
• Opportunities to make a lasting impact on the community and families.

Pay

Temporary stipend of $3.00 per hour in addition to base pay, available only to employees assigned to eligible Katy ISD, Conroe ISD, and Humble ISD locations; stipend may be modified or discontinued based on organizational needs and funding.

Schedule

Before/After School Program: part‑time, Monday–Friday, typically 2:30 pm–6:30 pm (aligned with ISD calendar), occasional Saturdays. Day Camp Program: Monday–Friday, 6:30 am–6:30 pm with multiple shift options (aligned with ISD breaks), occasional Saturdays. Participation in family nights, staff meetings, and trainings required with advance notice.