Activity Specialist: Fitness & Nutrition (Cross Island YMCA)

YMCA of Greater New York•Queens, NY

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The YMCA of Greater New York is seeking an Activity Specialist: Fitness & Nutrition for the Cross Island YMCA. This part-time role involves providing academic enhancement and enrichment in the Y Afterschool program, including Holiday Camps. The Activity Specialist will be responsible for creating a safe and positive environment for school-age children (grades K-5), offering opportunities for learning, interaction, and personal growth, with a specific focus on preparing and delivering age-appropriate Fitness & Nutrition instruction. The YMCA emphasizes a culture of learning, leading, and collaboration to enhance community impact, utilizing a "LEAP" career framework (Leadership, Empowerment, Accountability, Personal Growth) and a people-first approach.

Requirements

High School Diploma or equivalent required.
Minimum of two (2) years of experience in the specific discipline of fitness and nutrition.
Direct experience working with children under the age of 13.
Content expert in the designated subject matter.
General knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Strong interpersonal skills, leadership qualities, and comfortable working with diverse youth and adults.

Nice To Haves

College credits and formal education in a related field preferred.
Preference is given to individuals who are already experts within their field or college/graduate students working towards such specialization.
Coaching certification, if applicable.

Responsibilities

Prepare and deliver age-appropriate Fitness & Nutrition instruction for grades K-5 in the Y Afterschool program.
Create structured, detailed, and engaging daily or weekly lesson plans that align with program goals and the HealthyNYC initiative, including clear objectives, detailed procedures, time management, required materials, safety considerations, differentiation/modifications, and assessment methods.
Work with participants to prepare them for an end-of-cycle showcase where they will present their accomplishments, guiding them in selecting and finishing pieces for presentation, and assisting with event organization and setup.
Plan, organize, and supervise a variety of physical activities, including gym/physical education sessions, organized sports, dance, martial arts, fun fitness games, and other structured recreational exercises.
Conduct educational activities such as cooking demonstrations or workshops to teach fundamentals of healthy eating and living.
Promote an inclusive, welcoming, and respectful environment that embraces diversity and maintains a strength-based, youth-focused atmosphere sensitive to the needs of participants with learning, emotional, or behavioral differences.
Ensure the health, safety, and well-being of participants by providing appropriate supervision at all times.
Work cooperatively with Afterschool Group Leaders, professional staff, teachers, other programs, and school staff.
Adhere to all Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS), Department of Health (DOH), YMCA of Greater New York, school partner, and funder standards, expectations, and regulations.
Maintain accurate program documentation (sign-in/out forms, behavior reports, and incident reports).
Serve as a positive role model for participants.
Understand and communicate the YMCA’s core values and the goals of the Y Afterschool Program.
Develop and maintain positive relationships with parents/guardians and caregivers through regular communication.
Actively participate in training sessions, designated meetings, and special events.