Teen REACH Counselor

Greater Peoria Family YMCA•Peoria, IL

1d•$16 - $23

About The Position

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The Teen REACH Counselor provides direct leadership, instruction and motivation for students in the Teen REACH program. This position will provides direct supervision to a group of middle school and high school students in an afterschool setting. The Teen REACH Assistant will create positive, nurturing relationships with children, while building cooperative relationships with parents/caregivers and promoting and supporting the potential of all youth in programs and facilities peer-to-peer connections as a part of the overall TEEN REACH experience.

Requirements

At least 18 years of age.
Two years or more of college preferred.
Previous experience working with children, preferably in a day camp setting.
CPR, first aid, AED certifications, and child abuse prevention training within 30 days of hire date.
WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Must be able to lift and carry food and supplies weighing up to 20 pounds.
Ability to stand or sit while maintaining alertness for several hours at a time.
Position may require bending, leaning, kneeling, and walking.
Ability to speak concisely and effectively communicate.
Visual and auditory ability to respond to critical situations and physical ability to act swiftly in an emergency.

Nice To Haves

Experience preferred in one or more of the following areas: outdoor living, archery, camping, songs/music, skits, sports, aquatics, recreational games, etc.
Previous experience with diverse populations preferred.

Responsibilities

Assists in supervises a group of children.
Plans and implements program activities that are culturally relevant, developmentally appropriate and consistent with YMCA values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.
Adheres to program standards including safety and cleanliness standards.
Attends meetings and trainings.
Follows all YMCA policies, rules, regulations and procedures, including emergency and safety procedures and child abuse.
Completes incident and accident reports as necessary.
Maintains positive relations with parents and other staff.
Models relationship-building skills including (Listen First) in all interactions.
Instructs lessons in accordance with YMCA guidelines, having prepared lesson plans accordingly.
Builds effective, authentic relationships with students and parents; helps them connect with each other and the YMCA.
Encourages parent involvement and identifies potential volunteers.
Conveys information on program and schedules and as appropriate refers students and parents to other programs.
Other duties as assigned.