Activity Specialist: Debate (McBurney YMCA)

YMCA of Greater New York•Manhattan, NY

13d•Onsite

About The Position

The McBurney YMCA is seeking an Activity Specialist to provide academic enhancement and enrichment in its Y Afterschool program, including Holiday Camps. The role provides a safe, positive environment for school-age children and opportunities for learning, interaction, and academic or personal growth. The specialist prepares and delivers age-appropriate debate instruction for all grades in the program. The specialist plans and leads meaningful activities, teaches debate fundamentals, and supports participants’ skills and confidence. The role also involves maintaining program documentation and supplies, communicating with caregivers, collaborating with staff, and following YMCA, Department of Health, and funder requirements.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
At least two years of experience working with youth, specifically children, and planning debate activities.
Formal certification in debate.
General knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Strong interpersonal skills and leadership qualities.
Comfort working with diverse youth and adults.

Nice To Haves

College credits preferred.

Responsibilities

Ensure participants’ health, safety, and well-being through appropriate supervision.
Plan and implement meaningful, age-appropriate, exciting, challenging, and value-based activities and special events.
Teach debate fundamentals and lead activities that build participants’ skills and confidence.
Coordinate and present a culminating performance at the end of the program cycle, if applicable.
Work cooperatively with Afterschool Counselors, professional staff, teachers, and other program and school staff.
Promote an inclusive, welcoming, and respectful environment that embraces participants’ diversity.
Create and maintain a strength-based, youth-focused atmosphere sensitive to participants with learning, emotional, or behavioral differences.
Maintain accurate program documentation, including sign-in/sign-out forms, attendance sheets, behavior reports, and incident reports as appropriate.
Serve as a positive role model for participants.
Work with the Site Director to secure and maintain equipment and supplies needed for activities.
Communicate YMCA core values and Y Afterschool Program goals to participants and caregivers.
Build positive relationships with parents, guardians, and caregivers through regular communication about children’s strengths and areas for growth.
Prepare the learning environment, lessons, and supplies for program activities.
Participate in training sessions, designated meetings, and special events.
Follow Department of Health, YMCA of Greater New York, and funder standards, expectations, and regulations.