Y Club Youth Leader

YMCA of Greater Kansas City•Shawnee, KS

About The Position

The Y Club Youth Leader works in the YMCA of Greater Kansas City’s before- and after-school program, helping create a fun, safe, and supportive environment for elementary-aged children. The role involves leading age-appropriate activities such as crafts, sports, games, STEM projects, and physical activities, while supporting children’s learning, growth, and well-being. The posting describes two roles: Youth Development Assistants, who provide support and must be at least 16, and Youth Development Leaders, who lead their own group of children and must be at least 18. Leaders provide direct supervision independently. The schedule is on weekday mornings before school, afternoons after school until 6 p.m., or both. The position is part-time, with starting pay of $15.50 per hour for Leaders and $15.00 per hour for Assistants; pay may increase based on experience and education. Youth development associates are mandated reporters under Kansas and Missouri law. They must immediately report suspected child abuse or neglect, as well as unsafe conditions, accidents, or injuries. The YMCA describes its culture as cause-driven, welcoming, genuine, hopeful, nurturing, and determined.

Requirements

Youth Development Assistant applicants must be at least 16 years old.
Youth Development Leader applicants must be at least 18 years old.
A high school diploma or equivalent is required for Youth Development Leaders at Kansas sites.
Work effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions, and perceptions.
Be able to actively engage with and supervise children in indoor and outdoor activities; the role requires being on your feet, energy, and alertness.
Have a genuine interest in helping children learn, play, and grow.
Have a general understanding of computer technology.
In Missouri, complete a Tuberculosis Test Risk Assessment and State Health Assessment form within 30 days.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience working with school-age children, such as babysitting, nannying, camp, or childcare programs.
One year or more of college is preferred for Youth Development Leaders.

Responsibilities

Lead fun, age-appropriate activities, including games, arts and crafts, STEM projects, and physical activity.
Keep children safe by teaching and enforcing safety rules and responding quickly and appropriately in emergencies.
Guide behavior by teaching and redirecting children rather than scolding, enforcing rules firmly while treating each child with dignity and respect.
Verify photo identification at pickup until personally familiar with each authorized adult.
Build positive relationships with children, families, school staff, and YMCA teammates.
Be dependable for scheduled shifts and follow YMCA, licensing, and school district policies.
Help keep program spaces clean and organized.
As a Youth Development Leader, provide direct supervision while leading a group of children independently.
Immediately report suspected child abuse or neglect, unsafe conditions, accidents, and injuries, as required of mandated reporters under Kansas and Missouri law.