Before & After School Counselor

The YMCA of the Pikes Peak region is looking for an enthusiastic, compassionate, patient Group Leader, whose greatest passion is to see kids learn and grow, to join our Before & After School program. Each day, our Group Leaders have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of the children, creating joy in each child's life by teaching through play and hands-on activities.

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.  The Group Leader will give leadership, direction, and supervision to children in the Before & After School program.  The Group Leader will work closely with the Site Director in conducting daily duties such as writing daily reports, recording attendance, engaging in play and creating a safe environment. To be successful as a Group Leader, you must possess a passion for children and exercise patience with them. You should display a friendly and positive attitude and greet parents and children by their name. Ultimately, you should constantly monitor and supervise the children in your care to ensure their safety.

OUR YMCA CULTURE:

Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day.  We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you.

This job announcement is not intended to be inclusive of all functions, responsibilities and qualifications associated with the position, however, representative of the essential job functions and typical criteria considered necessary to successfully perform the position.

RESPONSIBILITIES OF A BEFORE & AFTER SCHOOL COUNSELOR:

• Providing a safe, nurturing, yet fun environment for children
• Modeling good character and hygiene habits and encouraging children to follow them
• Providing positive reinforcement, but also being firm when necessary
• Monitoring and supervising the children constantly
• Assisting the Site Director in maintaining a safe and positive environment
• Cultivating relationships with children, parents, and guardians
• Assist Site Directors with lesson preparation by getting materials ready and setting up equipment
• Ensure the classroom environment is safe and clean
• Help Site Directors to create lesson plans
• Maintain State licensing and YMCA Associations Standards and Minimum guidelines

*This is not an exhaustive list of job duties. Other duties, responsibilities and activities may be assigned.

REQUIREMENTS OF A BEFORE & AFTER SCHOOL COUNSELOR:

• Minimum age of 18
• 460 Hours verifiable^* experience with school age children
• Passionate about working with children and teaching young minds
• An ability to interact with parents and co-workers in a warm, empathetic, confident, and respectful manner

^*Verifiable and Satisfactory experience includes experience in the care and supervision of four or more children from the ages of four (4) to eighteen (18) years old, unrelated to the individual, since attaining the age of eighteen (18).

PART-TIME BENEFITS:

• Free Family Membership 
• Program discounts
• Generous retirement benefits - 12% after eligibility is met
• Employee Assistance Program
• Paid Sick Time