This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Group Leader is responsible for assisting the Site Supervisor in the day-to-day operations of the School Age Before or After Care program site. The Group Leader provides a high level of supervision for the children in the program and leads or assists with activities as directed by the Site Supervisor. The Group Leader works as part of a team to ensure that a safe and caring environment is provided for all children at all times.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Lead and ensure the safety of all children of assigned group by following the supervision standards in the Code of Conduct and Licensing Requirements. Maintain constant head/face counts when transitioning between activities. Provide restroom supervision and ensure children wash their hands after using the rest room.
• Lead and support the implementation of program activities including running games and physical activities, helping with snack and providing homework support as assigned. Use resources available to deliver activities that meet the purpose and vision of the Y Program and according to assigned curriculum.
• Follow YMCA protocols for dealing with First-Aid and emergency situations. Participate in monthly safety drills.
• Use positive group management techniques. Anticipate and deal with behavior problems in accordance with YMCA’s Discipline and Expulsion Policy.
• Build professional relationships with children, their families and school personnel.
• Represent the YMCA in a positive manner in all interactions, including participants and their families, and school personnel. Function as a positive role model and set a positive example through behavior.
• Maintain a clean and sanitary program environment by ensuring supplies, equipment and tables are cleaned before and after snack or activities. Assist with snack set up/clean up. Ensure children wash their hands before snack. Report any maintenance issues, or supply and equipment needs to the Site Supervisor.
• Ensure the health and comfort of all children is maintained by providing attentive and hygienic care for children if they soil themselves, including changing soiled underwear or disposable training pants, including regular diaper changes as needed, ensuring cleanliness, following proper diaper-changing techniques to maintain the child’s health and comfort. Follow YMCA protocols for changing soiled underwear and disposable training pants.
• Adhere to sanitation and health guidelines as required by the licensing or authorizing agency (ies) and Metro Y policies and procedures.
• Promote Y Programs and Camps to families. Assist with planning and implementation of special events, including Annual Campaign.
• Attend all YMCA training and meetings as requested. Maintain certifications necessary for the position throughout the program.
• Perform other job-related duties as requested and necessary.

YMCA COMPETENCIES (Leader):

Mission Advancement: Accepts and demonstrates the Y’s 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.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS/QUALIFICATIONS:

• High School Diploma required, college credits/degree preferred.
• Basic understanding of youth development principles.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to communication with all levels including staff, parents and school staff.
• Ability to problem solve and make decisions that adhere to the purpose, mission and goals of the YMCA.
• Ability to relate to children and develop professional, positive relationships with youth.
• Minimum of one (1) - three (3) years’ experience leading group activities.
• Ability to work as part of a team, as a role model and take initiative to identify potential risk factors and take measures to reduce them.
• First-Aid, CPR and AED certification may be required.
• Must complete CARI Background Check, CHRI/Fingerprinting and provide proof of a Mantoux test within two weeks of hire.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Sufficient strength, agility and mobility to perform essential functions.

INTERNAL CANDIDATES: Current active employees of the Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges should apply via the Careers section of the Dayforce Employee Account.

We offer a competitive compensation and benefits package, which includes paid sick leave, a legal plan, disability insurance, life insurance, 12% retirement benefits upon eligibility, a 403 (b) plan, an employee assistance program, professional development opportunities, Metro Y program discounts, and complimentary use of YMCA facilities.