Afterschool Counselor II - Horizons Buncombe
About The Position
The Afterschool Counselor II supervises middle-school-age participants in the Horizons after-school program and leads activities that support their academic and social growth. The counselor fosters a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment and uses resources provided by the Program Coordinator to introduce skills and enrich learning through program activities. The role supports the YMCA of Western North Carolina’s mission of community service and enrichment. Work is located at varying after-school sites in Buncombe County. During the school year, hours are Monday through Friday, 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.; during school breaks, hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with up to 40 hours per week.
Requirements
- Must be at least 21 years old.
- Must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Must be enrolled in or complete at least 2 semester hours of school-age coursework within 1 year of hire.
- Previous experience working with children or teens is required.
- Ability to relate effectively to diverse groups from all social and economic segments of the community.
- Specific certifications and/or training may be required.
- Must be mini-bus certified or able to obtain certification.
- Exceptional group-management, problem-solving, and conflict-resolution skills.
- Oral, auditory, and written communication skills appropriate for interacting with children and adults.
- Flexibility and ability to adapt to changing circumstances.
- Ability to lead and participate in activities in varied indoor and outdoor settings.
- Ability to climb, bend, stoop, kneel, twist, reach, sit, walk, and stand for extended periods.
- Ability to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
- Finger dexterity, ability to grasp, and ability to perform repetitive motion.
- Corrected vision and hearing within normal range, or accommodations sufficient to complete assigned tasks.
- Ability to communicate clearly through speech and understand English.
Nice To Haves
- Experience in outdoor education, planning and organizing activities, crafts, songs or music, skits, sports, or recreational games.
- Multilingual ability.
Responsibilities
- Ensure the safety and engagement of children in the assigned group, creating a secure and enjoyable environment.
- Offer homework support, encourage academic progress, and celebrate children’s achievements.
- Follow program lesson plans while considering each child’s physical, social, emotional, and intellectual needs.
- Create a nurturing programming environment that encourages exploration and positive play and embraces each child’s individuality.
- Maintain ongoing communication with the supervisor to support program participants.
- Keep accurate classroom records as assigned, comply with program standards, and respect children’s privacy.
- Communicate effectively with parents and participate in designated parent and family events.
- Model inclusive behavior and embrace diversity so every child feels valued and respected.
- Follow YMCA of Western North Carolina policies and applicable state and federal regulations.
- Implement daily administrative, program-related, and supervisory responsibilities at an after-school site.
Benefits
- Free individual membership to all YMCA of WNC locations.
- Discounted membership for household members.
- Discounted program fees, including swim lessons, youth sports, and summer camp.
- Option to start a 403(b) smart savings account on the first day of employment and begin eligibility for the YMCA retirement plan.
- Professional development opportunities through local and Y-USA trainings.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Part-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
High school or GED
