Project Pathways Facilitator

YMCA of Rock River Valley•Rockford, IL

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Project Pathways Facilitator supports the work of the Y, which is committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. A Project Pathways Facilitator provides direct supervision of a group of children and enhances learning experiences through creative and recreational supplemental programming. This position fosters a safe and nurturing environment for all program participants in Project Pathways. No two days are the same in this role�but every day is centered on creating safe, positive experiences where young people can learn, grow, connect, and discover their potential. The role involves creating a welcoming environment, leading engaging activities including education, team-building, S.T.E.A.M. projects, and family outings. It also includes providing consistent supervision and guidance, keeping participants engaged while ensuring their safety, and working alongside fellow facilitators to plan and create a successful experience. The facilitator acts as a positive role model demonstrating the YMCA's core values, healthy habits, good sportsmanship, responsibility, and respect. The role follows the Camp HOPE America curriculum while creating meaningful opportunities for participants to build confidence, relationships, and life skills. It also involves fostering belonging and character development by creating an inclusive environment where every participant feels valued and supported. Additionally, the facilitator helps maintain a safe and organized program environment by addressing concerns and promptly reporting damaged equipment or safety hazards.

Requirements

Minimum age of 20 years old
Able to work with children between ages of 8-17
High school graduate or equivalent
One year or more of college preferred
Previous experience working with children
IL DCFS Child Abuse and Neglect/Mandated Reporter
CPR & First Aid/AED certification required upon hire
Current Praesidium Academy trainings

Nice To Haves

Experience preferred in one or more of the following areas: outdoor living, archery, boating, camping, songs/music, skits, sports, aquatics and recreational games
Attend trauma-informed training upon hire

Responsibilities

Provide direct supervision of a group of children.
Enhance learning experiences through creative and recreational supplemental programming.
Foster a safe and nurturing environment for all program participants.
Create a welcoming environment where participants feel safe, supported, and ready to learn and have fun.
Lead engaging activities including education, team-building, S.T.E.A.M. projects, and family outings.
Provide consistent supervision and guidance, keeping participants engaged while ensuring their safety throughout every activity.
Work alongside fellow facilitators to plan, communicate, and create a successful experience for every participant.
Be a positive role model by demonstrating the YMCA's core values, healthy habits, good sportsmanship, responsibility, and respect.
Follow the Camp HOPE America curriculum while creating meaningful opportunities for participants to build confidence, relationships, and life skills.
Foster belonging and character development by creating an inclusive environment where every participant feels valued and supported.
Help maintain a safe and organized program environment by addressing concerns and promptly reporting damaged equipment or safety hazards.