YOUR IMPACT
The School-Age Group Leader is a dedicated and enthusiastic individual responsible for guiding and mentoring a group of children in before and after school programs, as well as summer camp activities. Reporting to the Vice President of Youth Development and working closely with the Site Lead, the Group Leader plays a key role in implementing engaging, educational, and recreational activities that support the development of youth. This position requires a commitment to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment, fostering positive relationships with participants, parents, and school staff. Regardless of primary assignment, this position may be required to travel between program sites as needed.

EXPECTATIONS & RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Supports day-to-day operations of assigned before and/or after school sites during the school year.
2. During no school days and summer camp programs, serve as a group leader as assigned by supervisor.
3. Leads and mentors a group of children, fostering a positive and engaging environment.
4. Facilitates and participates in group activities throughout the daily schedule, ensuring they are educational, recreational, and aligned with program goals.
5. Ensures youth safety by actively participating in and supervising all swimming and water-based activities.
6. Provides a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment for all participants.
7. Builds caring, consistent, and positive relationships with program participants.
8. Provides constant supervision during program to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants.
9. Supports students in academic, recreational, and enrichment activities, using provided curriculum materials.
10. Assists the Site Lead in handling discipline, complaints, and conflict resolution, employing positive youth discipline techniques, such as Core Values, Redirect, and Behavior Agreements.
11. Models appropriate behaviors, including cleanliness, punctuality, sharing, healthy habits, sportsmanship, and table manners.
12. Treats all students, parents, and fellow staff with respect and fosters a culture of respect within the program.
13. Performs duties and tasks as assigned by the Site Lead, supporting the smooth operation of the site.
14. Treats and cares for the site and equipment respectfully, ensuring the space is kept clean and well-maintained.
15. Attends and actively participates in all team meetings and trainings.
16. Communicates all concerns to leadership in a timely manner.
17. Ensures a strong focus on character development and diversity, equity and inclusion throughout programming.
18. Adheres to all state, local, and YMCA policies and procedures.
19. Reports damaged equipment or safety hazards promptly.
20. Performs any other functions necessary for the smooth and efficient operation of the YMCA of Rock River Valley.

SCHEDULE & COMPENSATION: 2 Positions

Position 1: Poplar Grove Elementary School
Part Time, Non-Exempt
Monday - Friday 2:30 - 6:00 pm
This is a Year-Round Position with hours subject to change for School's Out Days and during summer months.
$15.00 per hour

Position 2: Belvidere Family YMCA
Part Time, Non-Exempt
Monday - Friday 2:00 - 6:00 pm
This is a Year-Round Position with hours subject to change for School's Out Days and during summer months.
$15.00 per hour

WORK LOCATION
Poplar Grove Elementary School or Belvidere Family YMCA
Regardless of primary assignment, this position may be required to travel between sites as needed.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum High School Diploma or GED preferred
• 1-year related experience of leadership in a childcare setting preferred
• YMCA Leader certification preferred
• Training required upon hire: Gateways Child Development Health & Safety, IL DCFS Child Abuse and Neglect/Mandated Reporter. Any additional certifications that are required by the state of Illinois
• CACFP/SFSP Training required within 90 days
• CPR, AED and First Aid Certifications required within 90 days
• Current Praesidium Academy trainings

THERE'S SO MUCH MORE TO WORKING AT THE Y! Employment benefit information available HERE.

The Y is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We offer more than just a job, rather the opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of those around you.

The Y: We're for Youth Development, Healthy Living and Social Responsibility